THE SOUTHERN DESERT & RED SEA COAST
This is a land of elemental beauty, where the colossal, silent wilderness of Wadi Rum meets the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea. Explore cinematic desert landscapes, ancient Nabataean paths, and a coastal city that offers a refreshing gateway to marine life.
Why Visit The Southern Desert & Red Sea Coast?
Wadi Rum’s Mars-like Landscape: Experience a stunning, protected desert wilderness, perfect for jeep tours, stargazing, and staying in a Bedouin-style camp.
The Red Sea Gateway: Aqaba: Jordan’s only coastal city offers world-class diving and snorkeling in warm waters teeming with coral and marine life.
The Nabataean Legacy: Follow ancient trade routes and discover the powerful historical presence that connects this region to nearby Petra.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (March-May, September-November): This is the ideal time to visit, offering warm but tolerable temperatures for both desert exploration and water activities in Aqaba.
Deep Off-Season (December-February): Enjoy the coolest temperatures, perfect for daytime hiking in Wadi Rum. Be prepared for chilly desert nights, but accommodation prices are at their lowest.
Peak Season (June-August): The heat is intense, especially in the desert, often exceeding 40ºC (104ºF). Focus on early morning/late afternoon desert activities and water sports in Aqaba.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Wadi Rum Protected Area
Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its stunning sandstone mountains, natural arches, and vast, sweeping sand dunes. It is the spiritual home of the Zalabieh Bedouins, who operate the jeep tours and camps.
Your Smart Tip: To truly experience the desert’s magic, plan to stay in a Bedouin camp for at least one night. This allows you to stargaze under one of the darkest skies on earth.
Aqaba & The Red Sea Coast
Jordan’s only port city, Aqaba, is a relaxed coastal destination and a designated Special Economic Zone, meaning many goods are duty-free. The calm, warm waters of the Red Sea make it an excellent spot for diving, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours.
Your Smart Tip: The best snorkeling is often accessible right off the beach in the Southern Beach area. Look for sites like the Japanese Garden or the sunken C-130 Hercules plane wreck.
Al-Disah Valley (Wadi Disi)
Often visited as an extension of Wadi Rum, this area features equally stunning rock formations and is known for its fertile, underground water sources. It’s a less-visited and more peaceful alternative for those seeking a quiet desert experience.
Your Smart Tip: If you are a keen photographer, visit Al-Disah in the early morning or late afternoon. The low light perfectly highlights the deep red and ochre colors of the rock walls.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
This region has an arid desert climate. Summers are extremely hot, with daytime temperatures often above 40ºC (104ºF). Winters are mild in Aqaba, but nights in the desert (Wadi Rum) can drop to near-freezing, though daytime temperatures are generally 15ºC to 25ºC (59ºF to 77ºF).
Local Customs And Etiquette
Dress Code: While Aqaba is more relaxed, modest clothing is appreciated, especially outside of resort areas. In the desert, dressing modestly protects you from the sun.
Baksheesh (Tipping): Tipping is customary in Jordan, known as baksheesh. It’s expected for services like carrying luggage, guides, and for small favors.
Hospitality: Jordanian and Bedouin people are incredibly hospitable. Accepting an offer of tea, particularly in the desert, is a sign of respect and a wonderful cultural experience.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($15–$30), mid-range hotels/Wadi Rum camps ($50–$100), luxury ($120+). Luxury ‘bubble’ camps in Wadi Rum are typically $200+.
Food: Shawarma/falafel sandwich ($2–$5), fixed-price meal at a mid-range restaurant ($15–$25 per person), fine dining in Aqaba ($40+).
Transport: Shared Taxi/JETT bus to/from Aqaba ($10–$20), private taxi/driver (negotiable), Wadi Rum jeep tour (half-day $50–$70).
Activities: Snorkeling gear rental ($10–$15), half-day dive trip ($50–$70), entry to Wadi Rum ($7).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $50–$80 (shared desert accommodation, street food, public transport).
- Mid-range: $90–$150 (mid-range camps/hotels, local restaurants, guided tours).
- Luxury: $170+ (boutique hotels, gourmet meals, private tours).
Getting Around
Wadi Rum: You must hire a 4×4 vehicle with a licensed Bedouin driver/guide from the Visitor Center to explore the protected area. Self-driving is not allowed.
By Taxi/Ride-Share: Taxis are readily available in Aqaba. Always agree on the fare before starting the trip or use a meter.
By Bus: The JETT bus service is the most comfortable and reliable way to travel between major hubs like Amman, Petra, and Aqaba.
Must-Try Food
Sayadieh (Sah-yah-DEE-yah): A signature Aqaba dish of seasoned fish (often sea bass) served over rice, garnished with almonds and parsley.
Mansaf (MAN-saf): While a national dish, it is widely enjoyed. Lamb cooked in fermented, dried yogurt sauce (jameed) and served over rice or bulgur.
Zarb (ZAR-b): A traditional Bedouin barbecue. Meat (lamb or chicken) and vegetables are slow-cooked in a sealed oven buried under the desert sand.
Galayet Bandora (Gah-LAY-et Ban-DOH-rah): A simple, cooked tomato, onion, and chili dish, often eaten with bread for breakfast or as a side.
Hummus and Mutabbal: Creamy chickpea and eggplant dips, respectively, served with warm khobz (flatbread).
Shawarma: Slices of spiced meat (chicken or lamb) cooked on a vertical rotisserie, wrapped in bread with salad and sauce.
Kofta: Seasoned ground meat mixed with onions and parsley, often baked in a rich tomato or tahini sauce.
Kunafeh (Koo-NAH-feh): A syrupy, cheese pastry topped with crushed pistachios, a popular sweet treat.
Baklava: Layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.
Muhallebi (Moo-hah-LEH-bee): A light and creamy milk pudding, often flavored with rosewater or orange blossom water.
Must-Try Drinks
Arak: The traditional Levantine clear, anise-flavored alcoholic drink. It becomes cloudy white when water and ice are added.
Amstel/Petra Beer: Locally brewed beers, widely available in licensed establishments in Aqaba.
Jordanian Wine: Some local wines, particularly those from the Jordan River Valley, are available. Ask for Saint George or Mount Nebo labels.
Bedouin Tea (Shai): Served hot and sweet with mint or sage, it is a staple of desert hospitality and offered everywhere.
Qahwa (Arabic Coffee): Often flavored with cardamom, it’s served in small cups and is a sign of respect and hospitality.
Limonana: A refreshing, chilled blend of fresh lemon juice and mint, perfect for the heat.
Fresh Juice: Mango, orange, and pomegranate juices are widely available and delicious.