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How to Get to Wadi Rum from Amman, Aqaba & Petra — Practical Guide

Wadi Rum is Jordan’s signature desert: dramatic sandstone cliffs, endless dunes and night skies that feel close enough to touch. If you’re planning a visit, the most common questions are practical: how do I get there, how long will it take, how much does a taxi cost, and can my camp arrange pickup? This guide answers those questions for travelers coming from Amman, Aqaba, and Petra, with realistic travel times, estimated fares, and pro tips to make the journey effortless.




Quick overview: travel times and meeting point


  • From Aqaba: ~1 to 1.5 hours

  • From Petra (Wadi Musa): ~1.5 to 2 hours

  • From Amman: ~4 to 5 hours


Most visitors meet at the Wadi Rum Visitor Centre (Wadi Rum Village). From there, camps provide the last leg by 4x4 jeep into the protected desert area. Confirm whether your camp includes this transfer before you book.




Getting to Wadi Rum from Aqaba — fastest & simplest


Best for: visitors flying into Aqaba (AQJ) or staying in Aqaba.


Options:


  • Private taxi / transfer: The quickest option. Expect approximately 20–25 JOD one way (prices vary by negotiation and season). Agree the fare before departure.

  • Shared shuttle: Some camps and local operators run shared shuttles between Aqaba and Wadi Rum for a lower per-person rate.

  • Self-drive: The road is straightforward and scenic — allow 1–1.5 hours to Wadi Rum Visitor Centre.



Tips: Ask your camp to recommend a trusted driver; many camps include the final jeep transfer (village → camp) in their package.







Getting to Wadi Rum from Petra — ideal for Petra → Wadi Rum itineraries



Best for: travelers combining Petra and Wadi Rum.


Options:


  • Private taxi / transfer: Typical fare: 40–45 JOD one way from Petra (Wadi Musa) to Wadi Rum. This is door-to-door and time-efficient.

  • Shared minibus / shuttle: Cheaper, but requires booking in advance and may involve waiting for other passengers.

  • Self-drive: About 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic and route — the drive is scenic and straightforward.



Tips: If you plan Petra in the morning and Wadi Rum the same day, depart Petra mid-afternoon to make time for a sunset activity or camp check-in. Pre-book your transfer or ask your camp to arrange it.





Getting to Wadi Rum from Amman — longer but manageable



Best for: travelers starting in Amman or arriving at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM).


Options:


  • Private transfer / taxi: One-way cost often ranges 80–120 JOD (subject to vehicle type and negotiation). For groups this becomes cost-effective per person.

  • Bus + taxi option: Take a JETT or private bus from Amman to Aqaba, then taxi/shuttle to Wadi Rum. This saves money but adds transfers.

  • Self-drive: Driving time is 4–5 hours; roads are generally good but expect some traffic near Amman.



Tips: For comfort, consider splitting the journey with an overnight in Amman or Aqaba, or arrange a private transfer to avoid a long single-day drive.




The final leg — Wadi Rum Village to the camp



Most camps are inside the protected area, accessible only by 4x4 jeep. Confirm with your host:


  • Do they include jeep pickup from the Visitor Centre?


  • What time is the scheduled pickup?


  • Is there a parking option if you’re self-driving?



If your camp provides pickup, share your arrival time and transport details (flight number, bus arrival time, taxi plate or driver contact) via WhatsApp for a smooth handover.




Price guide (approximate and seasonal)



  • Aqaba ↔ Wadi Rum (taxi): 20–25 JOD one way


  • Petra ↔ Wadi Rum (taxi): 40–45 JOD one way


  • Amman ↔ Wadi Rum (private transfer): 80–120 JOD one way


  • Shared shuttles: often cheaper per person; check local operators or your camp



Note: Prices fluctuate by season (high season = higher fares) and negotiation. Always confirm and agree on the price before the trip.




Booking tips & safety recommendations



  • Confirm transfers in writing (WhatsApp is standard in Jordan). Get driver name, vehicle, and phone number.


  • Book transfers early during March–May and September–November (peak seasons).


  • Travel with a licensed local guide for off-road tours and hikes. They know the terrain and safety procedures.


  • Pack smart: water, sunscreen, hat, warm jacket for night, and a physical copy of pickup details.




Sample itineraries



From Petra — Day + Night: Morning at Petra → drive to Wadi Rum (1.5–2 hrs) → afternoon jeep tour → Bedouin dinner and overnight.


From Aqaba — Afternoon arrival: Arrive Aqaba → transfer to Wadi Rum (~1 hr) → sunset dune visit → camp dinner.


From Amman — Two-day plan: Drive to Petra or Aqaba first, overnight, then Wadi Rum the next day to split the journey.




Quick checklist before you go



  • Confirm whether your camp includes jeep pickup from Wadi Rum Visitor Centre.


  • Save driver/camp WhatsApp number.


  • Agree taxi fees in advance (if not pre-booked).


  • Pack layers — desert nights can be cold.




Need help arranging transfers?



If you want a reliable, local transfer or camp pickup arranged for your dates, we can coordinate it quickly and confirm by WhatsApp: +962 777 593044. Tell us your arrival time and origin (Amman / Petra / Aqaba) and we’ll handle the rest.



Practical Travel Resources for Wadi Rum Visitors


To make your journey smoother, here are some reliable resources and links you can use when planning your trip to Wadi Rum:




 
 
 

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