Essential Preparations: Wadi Rum

Planning Milestones

Strategic Timeline for Your Journey

Pre-Trip Planning Timeline

Begin your preparations well in advance to cover all aspects of your Wadi Rum adventure, from documents to packing.

+ Months Before

Passport Validity: Check it 6+ months.

Beyond your intended departure date from Jordan.

Visa Requirements: Research & obtain.

If not eligible for visa on arrival.

Jordan Pass: Purchase online.

Waives visa fees (3+ nights) & includes attractions: Jordanpass.jo.

Month Before

Book Wadi Rum camp & tour.

Confirm pick-up details at Visitor Center.

Book international & internal flights/transfers.

Esp. Aqaba (AQJ) due to fewer direct options.

Consult travel doctor.

For recommended vaccinations and health advisories.

Week Before

Withdraw sufficient Jordanian Dinars.

ATMs are not in Wadi Rum.

Notify bank of travel plans.

Prevent card issues.

Pack bags and organize items.

Desert clothing like Columbia Women's Bahama Long-Sleeve Shirt, and a Power bank.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these before your journey for a smooth experience.

Pre-Trip Essentials

Jordan Pass (if using)
Wadi Rum camp stay
Wadi Rum jeep tour (usually arranged with camp)
International flights

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gain insights to enrich your journey.

Knowledge for a Trip

Read up on Bedouin culture and history to enrich cultural comprehension.
Familiarize yourself with basic Arabic phrases to improve interactions.
Understand the specific weather patterns for your travel dates to pack correctly.
Review specific activity preparations you plan to undertake.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home is secure and managed while you are away.

Inform Contacts

Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary.
Share your itinerary and contact details.
Provide emergency contacts.
Ensure a plan for emergencies.

Household Management

Arrange for mail collection.
Organize pet care.
Schedule plant watering.
Manage utilities if needed.

Home Security

Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Set alarms.
Secure valuables.
Use timers for lights.

Insurance Reminder

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and planned activities. This protects you from unforeseen circumstances.

Arrival Checklist

These steps lead to a smooth entry into Jordan and your arrival in Wadi Rum.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration
Present passport, visa, or Jordan Pass to the immigration officer.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your baggage from the claim area.
3
Currency Exchange & SIM Card
Exchange currency or withdraw JOD from an ATM at the airport. Purchase a local SIM card if desired.

Orientation Strategies & Transfers

Wadi Rum Visitor Center Confirmation
Confirm your camp booking with staff and meet your designated Bedouin guide.
Clarify Tour Itinerary
Discuss the tour itinerary and duration with your guide.
Initial Purchases
Purchase any last-minute bottled water or snacks before entering the protected area.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Camp Arranged Pickup

Your chosen camp arranges a 4x4 jeep for pickup.

Directly from the Wadi Rum Visitor Center.

To Your Desert Camp

Transport is directly into your camp within the protected area.

Seamless entry for guests.

Connectivity Check

Note: ATM and strong mobile signals are limited beyond the Visitor Center.

Have enough cash (JOD) and offline resources ready.

Important Reminders

Ensure you have enough Jordanian Dinars for your stay in Wadi Rum, as cash is preferred for many services. Purchase any last-minute bottled water or snacks before entering the protected area.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure from Wadi Rum and Jordan for a stress-free exit.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Buy souvenirs in Wadi Rum Village or at the Visitor Center.
Shipping larger items needs arrangement from Aqaba or Amman.
VAT refund scheme for tourists is not widely available.
Confirm with vendors if purchasing high-value items.

Pre-Departure Timing & Return Trip

Confirm your departure transfer arrangements from Wadi Rum.
Allow ample time to reach King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) (1 hour drive).
Or Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) (4-5 hours drive).
Ensure all documents, including your passport, are in order.

Travel Checklist

Ensure smooth transitions for your onward journey.

Before You Leave

Confirm transfer from Wadi Rum.
Check flight details & airport time.
Verify passport & visa for next destination.
Secure all valuables.

Departure Essentials

Factor in check-in and security time at the airport.
Consider traffic conditions for transfers to Queen Alia International Airport.
Keep digital and physical copies of essential documents handy.
Ensure luggage is within airline limits.

Important Departure Reminder

Reconfirm your departure transfer details and allow generous travel time to the airport. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents for your next destination or return home.

Check Eagle Creek for travel gear to streamline your packing.

Essential Preparations