As you plan your itinerary in Jordan, there are a few logistical challenges you want to work out before you start locking in hotel and camp bookings. Your driving route is one of them. This post will give you everything you need to know about traveling from Amman to Wadi Rum, what your options are, how much it costs, and what to do once you get there.
Wadi Rum is in the south of Jordan and Amman is in the northern part. While Jordan has modern highways, it still takes about 4 hours whether you are in Amman, at Amman airport or near the Dead Sea. Keep that in mind when you are planning.
Contents
How Far is it from Amman to Wadi Rum?
The distance from Amman to Wadi Rum is approximately 330 kilometers or 205 miles. It takes around 4 hours by car to travel from Amman to Wadi Rum depending on highway traffic. With this in mind, you can still visit Wadi Rum even on a 3-day itinerary. Its otherworldly landscape is not to be missed!
How to Get From Amman to Wadi Rum
Amman to Wadi Rum By Car
There are only a few options to get from Amman to Wadi Rum, which makes it easy and difficult. The easiest way is to rent a car and drive yourself the 4-hour journey from Amman to Wadi Rum. But what makes this difficult for some travelers is the cost. There are over one hundred international and local car rentals in Amman. On average, you can expect to pay around JD 25-30 (35-40 USD) per day for a new model with air conditioning and insurance. Check a website like this that gives you multiple rental company cars and prices.
With that being said, the lack of public infrastructure means that having a car is the most effective way to get around Jordan. Get more info on renting a car in Jordan.
Amman to Wadi Rum by Bus
There is no direct JETT bus that will take you to Wadi Rum Village or Al Disseh Village and both are off the main highway at the turnoff to the Wadi Rum visitor’s centre. This is one of the limitations of public transport in Jordan. It is not set up to cater to tourists at all.
You can take JETT to Aqaba and then take a bus from Aqaba to Wadi Rum, but it only runs once and day. Like I said, the public transportation infrastructure is not tourist friendly.
If you are interested in public transit, here is information on how to book the JETT bus online before you arrive to Jordan.
Amman to Wadi Rum by Taxi
If you hire a taxi or private vehicle to take you from Amman to Wadi Rum, expect to pay about JD110 per vehicle. There are plenty of private drivers who you can book online for a one way transfer. This is convenient, but not cost-effective.
Amman to Wadi Rum Tour
You can book a private transfer or a tour to Wadi Rum from Amman. Most of these tours will also have Petra included and are designed for those who have really limited time but want to see Petra and Wadi Rum.
Check out the following:
Viator Tours offers this one .
Get Your Guide Tours offers this one .
The Best Way to Get from Amman to Wadi Rum
So this is going to depend on the type of traveler you are. Everyone has their own preference. Those on a shoestring budget will find it cheaper to take public transport. Those who want to drive in Jordan will be happy to rent a car. It is hard for me to judge the kind of traveler that you are.
If you are like me and want a road trip, I have an entire itinerary mapped ou for you in my Jordan itinerary guide. It takes all of the guesswork out of the trip.
Overwhelmed with Planning a trip to Jordan?
Want to skip all of the planning and access my detailed Jordan Itinerary and Guide? I have been to Jordan several times and after being asked again and again for suggestions, not only did I build this website but I created an interactive PDF guide to help you plan the best trip to Jordan! It includes an interactive map, multiple itineraries for up to 10 days and as little as three days and plenty of practical information about renting a car and driving in Jordan. Get the guide by clicking the button below.
More information on Wadi Rum
Wondering what is the Best Time to Visit Wadi Rum or what to expect weatherwise?
How about the Best Bedouin Camps in Jordan’s Desert and our top pics for glamping in Wadi Rum.
All of these posts will help you plan your visit to Jordan’s desert!
Self Driving Resources
If you are working on a self-drive itinerary or plan to see the country independently, there is a guide on getting around in Jordan. For more posts on how to get from A to B you can check out Aqaba to Wadi Rum Aqaba to Petra, Amman to Petra , Aqaba to the Dead Sea or Amman to the Dead Sea
5 Things to Bring with You to Jordan
Pick up a Lonely Planet Guide to Jordan (or the Kindle version) before your trip to Jordan.
Whether you want to keep the sun off your head or want to show a little modesty, a scarf goes a long way in Jordan any time of the year. You can bring one with you or pick up one when you arrive, but don’t leave your hotel in the morning without it!
A Grayl Water Bottle is something I recommend for every traveler, not just those going to the Middle East. Some people say the water is safe to drink from the tap, others say it is not; it is not something I am going to chance. And Jordan has a HUGE garbage problem. The streets, the forests and even the desert are littered with plastic bottles.
An inexpensive Universal Travel Adapter is another must for Jordan. You will find an assortment of 220V plugs, from European 2 pin, another style of 2 pin and UK Plugs. While European 2 pin is most common, it is best to carry one of these adapters with you.
Kleenex or Wipes are another thing to put on your list. Jordan’s public washrooms can often be unstocked. Unless you are good with a bidet sprayer, bring yourself some Kleenex or wipes just in case!
Motion Sickness Pills might be needed if you are prone to motion sickness and plan on traveling by bus or in the back of the car. There are many windy, hilly, and bumpy roads in Jordan. Sea Bands might work for you if you are prone to motion sickness.