Exploring Wadi Rum: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2011, Wadi Rum was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This stunning area in southern Jordan is nestled close to the Red Sea and borders Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. The desert is characterized by a valley where the rock formations rise over 1,750 meters. It’s incredible how nature crafts these skyscrapers of sandstone and granite. Humans feel remarkably small compared to such natural wonders.
Adding to Wadi Rum’s charm, there are various rock engravings scattered throughout the area. Our guide takes us to see some of these ancient petroglyphs, revealing images of camels etched into the stone. Take a close look at the photos below and you might spot them too!
Wadi Rum: A Must-Visit Destination
Unfortunately, we won’t be spending the night in Wadi Rum. Still, after absorbing some quotes from Lawrence of Arabia, I can vividly imagine the beauty of this place at sunset: “The crimson sunset on its stupendous cliffs and slanted ladders of hazy fire down its walled avenue.” The starry night sky must be nothing short of overwhelming, especially compared to the bustling East Amsterdam where I live, where not a single light can be seen here.
Tea with the Bedouins
At the Bedouin tent, we are first greeted by the carved head of Lawrence of Arabia in a stone. After capturing a few photos, we enter the shaded tent. Almost immediately, two captivating green eyes lock onto mine. Those eyes stand out against a tanned complexion. I nod, and my glass cup is filled from a silver teapot. Fragrant herbs dance in the tea. The tent offers a refreshing coolness, and miraculously, the tea doesn’t overwhelm me with heat, which is quite surprising given my tendency to overheat. We sip our tea, finish our cups, and hop back into our jeep as we drive towards the end of Wadi Rum, where young boys on camels follow us.
Continuing the Journey to Aqaba
From here, we continue our journey to Aqaba. While the desert is solely composed of sand, Aqaba presents a stunning beach destination. It’s renowned for its underwater world of the Red Sea, attracting travelers eager to explore vibrant corals, turtles, and a variety of fish. Unfortunately, apart from a quick dip in our infinity pool, we don’t have much time to explore the underwater wonders. But it’s a must-have on my travel list for next time, much like the starry sky here!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is Wadi Rum known for?
It is known for its stunning sandstone cliffs, ancient rock engravings, and its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- How can I best experience Wadi Rum?
The best way to experience Wadi Rum is through guided jeep tours, sunset views, and traditional Bedouin tea ceremonies.
- Is Wadi Rum suitable for camping?
Yes, camping in Wadi Rum is popular, offering an incredible opportunity to stargaze in its clear night skies.
- What’s the climate like in Wadi Rum?
Wadi Rum has an arid desert climate with scorching summers and mild winters, making it crucial to prepare accordingly.
- How can I travel to Wadi Rum?
You can travel to the desert via taxi or bus from nearby cities like Aqaba or Petra, with jeep tours available on-site.
