Stories of Discovery & Wonder

3-Day Wadi Rum & Petra Adventure: Bedouin Camp, Jeep Tours and Mountain Scrambles

Cross from Eilat into Jordan and spend three days exploring Wadi Rum’s desert towers, Bedouin camps and mountain scrambles, then walk into Petra’s rose-red rock city. Expect jeep tours, guided climbs and a guided introduction to Petra.

Wadi Rum Village, Ma'an Governorate•

3 days (active portions 4–8 hours per day)

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

The morning you cross from Eilat into Jordan, the desert greets you like a wide-open road calling you forward. Dusty peaks scoop the sky as a 4x4 threads between sandstone towers; Bedouin tea steams while the sun slides behind a Burdah Arch silhouette.

Before You Go

Carry extra water

Temperatures and dry desert air demand at least 2–3 L per person per active day; refill where possible at camp or vehicle.

Sturdy, grippy footwear

Choose hiking boots with ankle support and sticky soles for scrambling on sandstone and scree sections.

Bring passport and border documents

Border crossing from Eilat requires completed entry paperwork and enough buffer time – keep originals handy and copies stored separately.

Plan for temperature swings

Desert days are hot but nights drop significantly; pack layers and a warm hat for camp.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Sunrise viewpoint above Burdah Arch (short scramble for fewer crowds)
•Lawrence’s Spring — a small water pocket with petroglyphs and shade

Wildlife

•Nubian ibex
•Desert fox

Conservation Note

Water is scarce and fragile desert soils recover slowly — stick to tracks, avoid collecting artifacts, and support locally run Bedouin camps to benefit conservation and communities.

Petra was the Nabatean capital and an important caravan hub; Wadi Rum contains rock art and traces of nomadic Bedouin life and Lawrence-era routes.

What to Bring

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Sturdy hiking bootsEssential

Provide traction on sandstone and protect ankles during scrambling.

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3L hydration system or bottlesEssential

Maintains hydration in hot, dry desert conditions.

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Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+, sunglasses)Essential

Sun is intense on open desert tracks and during jeep stops.

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Warm layer and headlamp

Nights at Bedouin camps can be cold; a headlamp is useful for early starts and camp tasks.

Common Questions

Do I need a visa to enter Jordan at the Eilat border?

Many nationalities receive a free visa on arrival when staying more than 2 nights; check current visa rules for your passport before travel.

How difficult are the mountain scrambles in Wadi Rum?

Routes are described as simple scrambles with short exposed sections; guides provide escort and basic equipment — moderate fitness and comfort with hands-on climbing are recommended.

Is the camel ride included?

Camel riding from Rum Village to Lawrence Spring is optional and paid locally (approx 10 JD/15 USD per hour); the main jeep tours and excursions are included as described.

What should I bring for Petra?

Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, water, and a small daypack — the guided portion is ~2½–3 hours but you’ll likely walk more if exploring independently after the tour.