Wadi Rum Petra And The South, Jordan Travel Guide
Jordan has three main mobile providers: Zain Jordan, Orange Jordan, and Umniah. SIM cards are readily available at airports or in major cities.
Many Bedouin camps offer Wi-Fi, often in a communal area. Quality and speed can be basic and intermittent, especially in more remote camps.
Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken by Bedouin guides and camp staff involved in tourism. Most signs in tourist areas are bilingual.
The Google Translate app can be useful for more complex interactions or communication outside the tourism sector.
Expect patchy or non-existent mobile coverage within the protected area of Wadi Rum.
Understand the typical operating hours and seasonal considerations for services around Wadi Rum.
The Wadi Rum Visitor Center is usually open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Bedouin camps operate 24/7 once checked in, with flexible check-in times. Jeep tours run from morning until sunset, and hot air balloon rides start at sunrise. Small shops in Wadi Rum Village have irregular hours, opening based on tourist traffic.
No ATMs are available in Wadi Rum Village or within the protected area. The closest ATMs are in Aqaba. Banking hours in Aqaba are typically Sunday-Thursday, from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Plan to withdraw sufficient cash before arriving in Wadi Rum.
Jordan observes Islamic holidays (e.g., Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha) and national holidays. Dates for Islamic holidays vary annually. During major holidays, some services might be limited, and public transport may be less frequent. Tourist operations generally continue.
Wadi Rum camps generally operate year-round. Some smaller camps may close or reduce services during the low season.
Prepare for your visit by managing your finances and staying informed about local observances.
Friday is the Muslim holy day; some businesses may have reduced hours or be closed. Check specific dates for the year of your travel.
Respectful interaction with locals enhances your Wadi Rum journey.
A simple "Marhaba" (hello) is appreciated. Men typically shake hands with other men. For women and men, follow their lead regarding handshakes; a nod or hand over the heart is also acceptable.
Modest dress is advisable throughout Jordan. For women, shoulders and knees should be covered, especially when interacting with locals or visiting Bedouin tents. For men, sleeveless shirts or very short shorts are best avoided.
Accept offers of food and tea graciously. When eating traditionally with your hands, use only your right hand. Avoid wasting food.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially Bedouin women and children. A simple gesture or "Mumkin soura?" (Can I take a picture?) often works. Respect a "no."
Adopting modest dress generally fosters positive interactions and a smoother experience.
Wadi Rum displays unique challenges for travelers with mobility needs due to its natural terrain.
Wadi Rum's natural desert environment, with sand and uneven rocky terrain, has obstacles for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility impairments.
Most natural attractions involve walking or scrambling over uneven terrain, limiting direct access.
Travelers with visual impairments will require a sighted companion. Guides may offer detailed verbal descriptions of the landscape.
Contact the Jordan Tourism Board or specialized accessible travel agencies for information specific to Jordan.
Communicate specific needs to your chosen camp and tour operator well in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
