Jordan’s desert landscapes, particularly the iconic Wadi Rum, offer some of the most unique overnight experiences in the world. Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” this protected area features towering sandstone mountains, red sand dunes, and ancient petroglyphs. For travelers, finding the right accommodation is the first step in planning a successful desert adventure.
Whether you are looking for a rugged, authentic experience with local Bedouin hosts or a high-end luxury stay under the stars, there is an option for every budget. Most desert accommodations are located within or just outside the Wadi Rum Protected Area. This guide will walk you through the different types of stays, what amenities to expect, and how to choose the best location for your needs.
Types of Desert Accommodation in Jordan
Accommodations in the Jordanian desert are generally categorized by their level of comfort and the style of the structures. Understanding these categories helps you set realistic expectations for your trip.
Traditional Bedouin Camps
Traditional camps are the most common and authentic way to experience the desert. These camps typically feature tents made from black goat-hair fabric, which is naturally insulating. While the exteriors are traditional, the interiors are usually outfitted with comfortable beds, linens, and warm blankets.
Most traditional camps offer shared bathroom facilities located in a separate permanent building. These camps focus on communal experiences, often featuring a central large tent where guests gather for meals, tea, and storytelling around a fire.
Luxury Martian Domes and Bubble Tents
In recent years, “glamping” has become incredibly popular in Wadi Rum. Luxury camps often feature “Martian Domes” or “Bubble Tents,” which are spherical structures with large transparent panels. These allow guests to view the stars and the desert landscape from the comfort of their bed.
These accommodations usually include private en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and high-quality furnishings. They provide a hotel-like experience in the middle of the wilderness. Because of the specialized equipment and maintenance required, these are the most expensive options in the desert.
Fixed Tourist Camps
Fixed camps offer a middle ground between traditional tents and luxury domes. They often feature permanent structures with solid walls or heavy-duty canvas. These camps may offer a mix of private and shared bathrooms and generally provide more consistent electricity than the smaller, more remote traditional camps.
Choosing the Right Location
When searching for Jordan desert accommodation, location is a primary factor. Wadi Rum is divided into the Protected Area and the surrounding areas like Disi.
- Inside the Protected Area: Staying inside the official reserve offers the most dramatic scenery and a feeling of total isolation. You will be surrounded by the famous red sand and massive rock formations. However, access usually requires a 4×4 transfer from the visitor center.
- Outside the Protected Area (Disi): The Disi area is located just outside the main reserve. While the scenery is still beautiful, it often features more white sand and is closer to paved roads. These camps are often easier to access and may have more consistent cell service and Wi-Fi.
Essential Amenities and What to Expect
Staying in the desert is different from staying in a city hotel. It is important to know what services will be available during your stay so you can prepare accordingly.
Electricity and Charging
Most camps rely on solar power. This means electricity is often only available in the evenings when the generators are running or when the solar batteries are being utilized. You may find charging stations in the communal areas rather than in your individual tent. It is highly recommended to bring a portable power bank for your devices.
Water and Bathrooms
Water is a precious resource in the desert. While most camps provide showers, guests are encouraged to use water sparingly. Hot water is usually available but may be limited to specific times of the day depending on the camp’s solar water heating system.
Climate Control
The desert experiences extreme temperature shifts. During the day, it can be very hot, while nights can become quite cold, even in the summer. Traditional tents do not have air conditioning, but their design allows for natural ventilation. Luxury domes almost always include A/C units, which are essential during the peak of summer.
Dining in the Desert
Food is a central part of the desert experience. Most accommodations include breakfast and dinner in their nightly rate because there are no restaurants or shops nearby once you enter the camp.
The Zarb Experience: One of the highlights of staying in a Jordan desert camp is the Zarb. This is a traditional Bedouin barbecue where meat and vegetables are cooked in a multi-tiered oven buried in the sand with hot coals. The slow-cooking process results in very tender meat and flavorful vegetables. Most camps perform a “reveal” of the Zarb before dinner, which is a great photo opportunity.
Breakfast is typically a buffet of Jordanian staples. You can expect pita bread, hummus, labneh (strained yogurt), olives, eggs, and za’atar. Sage-infused Bedouin tea is served throughout the day and is a staple of local hospitality.
Activities and Services
Most desert accommodations also act as tour operators. It is often most convenient to book your activities directly through your camp. Common activities include:
- 4×4 Jeep Tours: These are the most popular way to see the main sights, such as the Lawrence of Arabia Spring, the red sand dunes, and the natural rock bridges. Tours can range from two hours to a full day.
- Camel Trekking: For a slower pace, you can take a camel ride at sunrise or sunset. This provides a more traditional perspective of the landscape.
- Stargazing: Because there is very little light pollution, the desert is an incredible place for astronomy. Some camps offer guided stargazing sessions with professional telescopes.
- Hiking and Scrambling: For active travelers, many camps can arrange guides for hiking up the Jabal Ram or other significant peaks.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
To ensure a smooth experience, keep these practical tips in mind when booking and preparing for your trip.
Booking in Advance: During the peak seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), the best camps fill up months in advance. Use reputable booking sites and read recent reviews to ensure the camp’s standards meet your expectations.
What to Pack: Even in the summer, bring a warm jacket or fleece for the evenings. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for the sandy and rocky terrain. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
Connectivity: Do not expect reliable Wi-Fi in the desert. While some luxury camps offer it in communal areas, the signal is often weak. If you need to stay connected, consider buying a local SIM card (Zain or Orange) at the airport, though coverage can still be spotty deep in the protected area.
Transportation: Most guests arrive at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center. From there, you drive to Wadi Rum Village, where your camp host will meet you in a 4×4 to take you to the camp. Ensure you have coordinated your arrival time with your host via WhatsApp, which is the primary mode of communication in Jordan.
Conclusion
Staying in the Jordan desert is a bucket-list experience that offers a profound connection to nature and culture. By choosing the right type of accommodation—whether it’s a simple Bedouin tent or a high-tech Martian dome—you can tailor your stay to your comfort level. Remember to pack for temperature changes, prepare for limited connectivity, and embrace the local hospitality. If you found this guide helpful, explore our other articles on Jordan travel tips and packing guides to make your journey even better.