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Top 10 things to see in Wadi Rum

A trip to Wadi Rum isn’t only about glamping or experiencing a moment of stillness under the amazing blanket of stars that cover the desert sky at night. 

There are so many memorable experiences to be had and things to see in Wadi Rum. A favourite is the camel tour that takes you all the way to the Abu Khashaba canyon or Lawrence’s Spring.

#1 Seven Pillars of Wisdom 

Towering over the visitor centre is the stunning rock formation known as the Seven Pillars of Wisdom. This breathtaking sight was originally known as ‘the mountain of the plague and provides two different experiences in one. On one side of the rock, there is vegetation and grass that grows during early spring, which changes to yellow sand during the summer season. 

On the other side, the rock face consists of granite and sandstone, and is the epitome of a sheer drop from the top, The Seven Pillars of Wisdom is one of the best things to see in Wadi Rum and the first formation that arises from the valley as you enter it. 

#2 Burdah Rock Bridge

If you have no fear of heights, the Burdah Rock Bridge should definitely be on your Wadi Rum itinerary. 

The bridge is one of the highest natural arches on the planet at 35 meters above the surface of the desert. You will be able to hike up the rocks that connect to both sides of the arch and even walk over the bridge itself. It will take around 4 hours to hike up and back down, but the view from the top is unbeatable. 

#3 Mushroom Rock

While it may seem that someone deliberately carved Mushroom Rock to resemble a giant toadstool, this landmark’s familiar shape comes from hundreds of years of erosion. In ancient times, Bedouin herders sought shelter from the blazing sun underneath the canopy of the rock. 

There is a similar-shaped, smaller rock not far from Mushroom Rock, which can be climbed. 

#4 Khazali Canyon

As you reach Khazali Canyon, you will spot a single fig tree at its entrance. This magnificent attraction cuts through a crag formation and rivals the Antelope Canyon's sheer beauty. 

The interior is dotted with Thamudic petroglyphs, proving that even ancient civilisations found respite from the sun here. The canyon is one of the most visited places in Wadi Rum and it contains manmade pools that are filled with rainwater during winter. If you’re lucky, you may spot a newly discovered lizard species inside the canyon, called the Lacerta. 

#5 Lawrence’s Spring

The ‘Ain Abu Aineh’ spring, commonly known as Lawrence’s Spring, was named after TE Lawrence who often stopped over to quench his thirst. But long before Lawrence even knew there was a spring in Wadi Rum, the ancient Bedouin people would drink from it before continuing to trek over the desert sands. 

In modern times, the spring is as gorgeous as ever, with camels often resting along the base of the valley as the water spills from the rocks. Lawrence’s Spring is an essential water source, as it is the only one for many miles. 

#6 Siq Nuqra

The Wadi Nuqra valley lies at the start of the uninhabited region of the desert and provides just some of the many things to see in Wadi Rum. This includes the Nuqra well which is a gaping hole in the ground, stretching downwards for more than ten metres.

To the south of Wadi Nuqra lies Siq Nuqra which is a steep canyon with stunning rock formations. The manganese that lies within the sandstone, turns the surface of the rocks purple and in some crevices, the temperature never rises above 15, as it never gets any direct sunshine.

#7 Um Fruth Rock Bridge

Stretching up 15 metres from the sand is the Um Fruth Rock Bridge, which is one of the most photographed formations in the Wadi Rum desert.

Like the Burdah Rock Bridge, you should only attempt to climb this rock, if you have no fear of heights. The Um Fruth is a narrow arch and provides unmatched views across the mountains. It is a steep climb, however, so make sure you are in good physical condition before trying to go up. 

#8 Umm Ad Dami

If natural rock arches aren’t enough of a challenge for your adventurous soul, you shouldn’t miss out on climbing Umm Ad Dami. It is the highest mountain in all of Jordan and just waiting for adventure-seeking hikers.

From the top, you will have panoramic views of the entire desert and the other mountain ranges. If it is a clear day, you will be able to see the Red Sea and some of the deserts in Saudi Arabia. Climbing at a leisurely pace will take about 2 hours each way.  

#9 Siq Umm al Tawaqi

Siq Umm al Tawaqi is yet another amazing canyon that lies on the northern side of the desert’s protected area.

There are massive white dunes here and steep red cliffs, as well as several inscriptions related to Lawrence of Arabia and Prince Faisal which are located on the floor of the valley. These inscriptions date to 1918 and are the biggest attraction next to the canyon itself. 

#10 Anfashieh Inscriptions Site

The inscriptions at Anfashieh are fascinating and depict life over two thousand years ago. They were carved by the Nabatean and Thamud tribes and included images of camels and humans.

The Nabatean people are famous for constructing the majestic city of Petra, and they were nomads who travelled through the Arabian desert.

During your visit to the inscriptions site, you will be regaled with many stories about the mysterious Thamudic and Nabatean tribes who left evidence of their presence thousands of years ago. 

These sites are but a few of many things to see in Wadi Rum, which in itself is a place of magic and wonder, far removed from your average tourist attraction. It is so much more than just another desert - it is a place to immerse yourself in history and find a renewed vigour for travel.

As an anonymous traveller once said: “The human spirit needs places where nature has not been rearranged by the hand of man.”