Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Why Go?
Southern Jordan is the home of the Bedouin whose legendary courage and bravado were
made famous by TE Lawrence in
Seven Pillars of Wisdom
. They inhabit the unforgiving
Southern Desert, a quintessential landscape of sand dunes, oases and weathered escarp-
ments, beautiful at sunset and awe-inspiringly extreme in midsummer. A trip to Wadi
Rum makes all but the most unromantic at heart long to leave the modern world behind
and attempt the life of a nomad. And that's possible - at least for a day or two amid the
camps of Rum and Diseh, on camel back, by 4WD or floating above in a hot-air balloon.
Nearby Aqaba, together with neighbouring diving centres, give access to another of
Jordan's natural splendours: the coral gardens of the Red Sea. Even if wet suits aren't your
thing, Aqaba is a relaxed and pleasant destination in which to wash off the desert dust and
enjoy a fish supper among Jordan's own holidaymakers.
When to Go
Aqaba enjoys year-round warmth, even in winter, and a crystal clear sea. This brings
holiday-makers from the chilly uplands to the shore in large numbers - especially during
national holidays and religious festivals.
The desert springs to life after rain making February to May and October to November
the perfect time for desert adventure in Wadi Rum. With temperate days and balmy nights
camping is blissful.
Despite high temperatures, the all-night music festival, 'Distant Heat', attracts party-go-
ers to Wadi Rum in mid-August.
Beware! Mid-winter brings bitter night-time temperatures to the desert.
Best Places to Stay
»
»InterContinental Hotel (
Click here
)
»
»Coral Bay Resort (
Click here
)
»
»Bait Ali Lodge (
Click here
)
»
»Rum Stars Camp (
Click here
)
