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Digital Resources

Digital Resources

Petra And The South, Jordan

Essential Apps & Websites

Essential Apps

  • Offline Maps (Google Maps / Maps.me)

    GPS works offline, an aid where data coverage is spotty.

  • Translation (Google Translate)

    Download Arabic pack for offline use. This aids basic communication.

  • Stargazing (SkyView Lite / Star Walk 2)

    Identify constellations and celestial objects in Wadi Rum's clear night skies.

  • Weather (AccuWeather / The Weather Channel)

    Current conditions and forecasts for temperature fluctuations.

  • Booking (Booking.com / Camp Websites)

    Research and book specific Wadi Rum camps.

Useful Websites

  • Jordan Tourism Board (Visit Jordan)

    Official tourism site, containing general country information.

  • Jordan Pass (jordanpass.jo)

    Official site for purchasing the pass, including your visa and entry to many attractions.

  • Wadi Rum Protected Area Info (ASEZA/RSCN)

    Details on conservation efforts and regulations.

  • Social Media (Visit Jordan accounts)

    Updates, travel inspiration, and insights.

  • Online Communities (Reddit/TripAdvisor)

    Recent traveler experiences and advice.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Comprehensive guidebooks for Jordan have dedicated Wadi Rum sections. Look for updated editions.

Books on the Destination

T.E. Lawrence's 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom' (Paperback edition) captures the desert's grandeur. 'Married to a Bedouin' offers cultural insights.

Local Publications

Any free tourism brochures or maps available at airports or hotels in Amman or Aqaba give practical information upon arrival.

Further Reading & Exploration

Visual Media

  • "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962) captures desert grandeur. Available on Blu-ray.
  • "The Martian" (2015) shot portions in Wadi Rum.
  • Look for documentaries on Bedouin culture.
  • Listen to traditional Bedouin folk music played in camps.

Digital Engagement

  • Travel forums (e.g., TripAdvisor for Jordan) offer traveler experiences.
  • Reddit communities (r/travel, r/Jordan) for questions.
  • Language apps like Duolingo or Memrise aid basic Arabic.
  • Phrasebooks focused on Levantine Arabic.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • All Emergencies (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 911
  • Wadi Rum Protected Area Rangers (via camp)
  • Your Camp Operator (direct contact)
  • Your Embassy/Consulate (in Amman)

Medical Facilities

  • Closest Major Hospital: Aqaba (1 hour from Wadi Rum)
  • Amman: Multiple modern hospitals
  • Communicate needs in advance
  • Consider carrying communication aids

Lost Document Procedures

  • Report lost/stolen documents to local police
  • Contact your embassy/consulate
  • Obtain emergency travel documents
  • Tourist Police available in Amman and Aqaba

Emergency Protocols

Critical Alert

General Emergency

  • All Emergencies: Dial 911.
  • Single emergency number for all services.
  • Covers Police, Ambulance, Civil Defense/Fire.
  • Memorize this number.

Natural Disaster: Flash Floods

  • If rain occurs, stay out of wadis.
  • Avoid low-lying areas immediately.
  • Follow instructions from guide or camp staff.
  • Seek higher ground immediately.

Natural Disaster: Sandstorms

  • Seek shelter in a vehicle or solid structure.
  • Cover your mouth and nose to protect from dust.
  • Limit outdoor exposure.
  • Follow guide's advice.

Embassy Information

Contacting Your Embassy

  • Locate address for your country's embassy in Amman.
  • Keep emergency contact numbers readily available.
  • Or nearby country if no embassy in Jordan.

Lost Document Support

  • Report lost documents to local police immediately.
  • Contact your embassy for emergency travel documents.
  • Seek assistance for lost or stolen passports.

Medical Information

Hospital Access

  • Closest major hospital: Aqaba (King Hussein Hospital).
  • Approximately one hour from Wadi Rum.
  • Amman has multiple modern hospitals (Jordan Hospital).

Medical Care

  • Comprehensive medical care in Aqaba/Amman.
  • Communicate needs in advance to camp/guide.
  • Consider carrying communication aids.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  1. "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962): Largely shot in Wadi Rum, captures desert grandeur.
  2. "The Martian" (2015): Portions filmed in Wadi Rum for its Mars-like landscape.
  3. Look for documentaries on Jordan's history, Bedouin culture, and desert ecosystems.
  4. Explore various films portraying the region's unique beauty.
  5. Search online for clips or full features to gain visual insights.

Online Communities & Language Resources

  1. Travel forums (e.g., TripAdvisor for Jordan) offer recent traveler experiences.
  2. Reddit communities (r/travel, r/Jordan) platforms for asking questions and sharing tips.
  3. Apps like Duolingo or Memrise aid basic Arabic phrases.
  4. Phrasebooks focused on Levantine Arabic are useful for quick reference.
  5. Engage with online groups for insider advice and discussions.

Music & Art / Podcasts

Bedouin Music

Listen to traditional Bedouin folk music, often played on instruments like the oud or rebab. Camps often play this in the evenings.

Jordanian Folk Art

Explore broader Jordanian artistic traditions. Look for local crafts and visual art depicting desert life and culture.

Podcasts & Digital Content

Search for podcasts on "Jordan travel" or "Wadi Rum" for travel stories and insights from other visitors or experts.

Safety Advisory

Always prioritize your safety. Confirm emergency contacts and understand basic protocols before venturing into the desert. Carry sufficient water and sun protection.

Solo, Family & Group-Specific Advice

Solo Traveler Safety & Social Opportunities

Safety Measures

  • Wadi Rum is very safe for solo travelers.

    Bedouin guides and camp staff protect their guests.

  • Rarely need a personal alarm.

    Consider one for additional peace of mind.

  • Always go with a licensed Bedouin guide.

    Avoid venturing alone in the desert.

Social Opportunities

  • Camps have communal dining and gathering areas.

    Easy to meet other travelers.

  • Join shared jeep tours.

    Splits vehicle costs and companionship follows.

  • Embrace Bedouin hospitality.

    Accept offered tea graciously.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Camp Choices

Choose camps with family-friendly tents or rooms and a safe environment for children to play.

Activities for Kids

Plan shorter jeep tours (2-4 hours) with frequent stops for kids to enjoy sandboarding, playing in the sand, and easy scrambles. Camel rides are often a highlight.

Packing & Protection

Protect children from the sun with hats, sunscreen, and light clothing. Ensure constant hydration. Bring extra warm layers for kids at night.

Managing Group Logistics

Advance Planning

  • Advance Booking: Book well in advance for groups.
  • Ensure enough space in camps and vehicles.
  • Communication: Designate a group leader.
  • Streamline arrangements with camp/tour operator.

On-site Coordination

  • Vehicle Allocation: Several jeeps for larger groups.
  • Ensure the group stays together during tours.
  • Clarify itinerary and stops with all members.
  • Manage timing for smooth transitions.

Accessibility Considerations

Mobility Challenges

  • Wadi Rum is inherently challenging for those with mobility impairments.
  • Deep research into realistic limitations.
  • Direct communication with service providers paramount.
  • Understand possible accommodations at camps.

Sensory Impairments

  • Hearing/Visual Impairment: Communicate your needs in advance.
  • Consider carrying communication aids.
  • Guides are generally patient and capable in assisting travelers.
  • Inform your camp and guide about specific requirements.

Essential Tip

Pre-booking your Wadi Rum camp and jeep tour is highly recommended. This practice ensures a guide will meet you at the Visitor Center upon arrival, making your transport into the protected area seamless and preventing last-minute delays or limited choices.