The unreal Wadi Rum
The wonders of Petra are heard around the world, with all history fanatics wanting to see it up close. But there are many who are finally impressed by Wadi Rum. This UNESCO-protected desert sanctuary in southern Jordan, often called the Valley of the Moon, is known for its red-pink sand, stunning natural arches and mountains, and prehistoric rocks. It is less than 4 hours by car from Amman, 2 hours from Petra, and is very close to the border with Israel.
This beautiful red sand desert is famous for its spectacular sunsets, which peek through the mountains, giving you the feeling that you have left the Earth! Less crowded and touristy than Petra, Wadi Rum can provide a peaceful escape.
Since Lawrence of Arabia was filmed in and around Wadi Rum, it would be a great experience to go to the train station where the scenes were filmed as well as inside the train.
Since Lawrence of Arabia was filmed in and around Wadi Rum, it would be a great experience to go to the train station where the scenes were filmed as well as inside the train.
Wadi Rum has been home to various groups of people since prehistoric times. It was once inhabited by the Nabateans, who left their mark in the form of temples, inscriptions and rock paintings. Khazali Gorge is one of them. The Bedouins who still live in the area have roamed this land of extreme temperatures for many years, albeit now with more modern comforts.
Wadi Rum is everything you would expect from a desert: it is extreme in the heat of summer and cold in winter. It is violent and moody as the sun streams through carved canyons at dawn or melts the divide between rock and sand at dusk. It is demanding on the Bedouins who live in it and vindictive on those who ignore its dangers. For the lucky few who can afford a day or two on their itinerary to sleep in one of the desert camps, it can be an unforgettable way to strip their soul to the basics and feel what life on the planet might have been like. Mars.