How to Get From Aqaba to Wadi Rum

Located directly along the Red Sea, Aqaba is a charming coastal city in Jordan that combines ancient sites with luxury hotel resorts and water activities such as scuba diving and windsurfing. Nestled less than an hour away from Aqaba lies Wadi Rum, the gateway to the Jordanian desert. For those who wish to leave city life behind and escape into the wilderness, this desert destination is the place for you.

Also known as the Valley of the Moon due to the beautiful night sky here, Wadi Rum spans across 278 square miles of mountains, rock bridges, sand dunes, and notable sites, including the alleged house of Lawrence of Arabia. For thrill-seeking adventures, visitors can take on jeep rides, mountain climbing, and overnight camping. With regular buses, taxis, and tour operators, getting from Aqaba to Wadi Rum is quick and simple.

Tours From Aqaba to Wadi Rum

Almost all hotels and tour offices in Aqaba will offer Wadi Rum excursion packages. These experiences can cover anything from a half-day tour with transport to an overnight camping stay with camel rides. For a one-of-a-kind experience, these excursions can be ideal for celebrating birthdays or anniversaries. Prices for trips vary depending on the length of time and the tour operator. We offer a popular Wadi Rum Half-Day Safari Jeep Tour from Aqaba, with daily departures from Aqaba. For travelers who’d like to combine their trip to Wadi Rum with a visit to Petra, we recommend this two-day Petra and Wadi Rum Tour.

Another great way to experience the beauty of Jordan from Aqaba is to enjoy Red Sea snorkeling on this Red Sea Cruise & Snorkeling Experience from Aqaba.

From Aqaba to Wadi Rum By Car

Car rental in Jordan is one of the most convenient ways to explore the country. With over one hundred car rental companies based in Amman alone, visitors will never be short of options. There are a number of car rental companies at Queen Alia International Airport, and visitors should expect to pay around 25-30JD (35-40 USD) per day for a new model with air conditioning and insurance. The journey from Aqaba to Wadi Rum only takes around 50 minutes to one hour by car via the Desert Highway.

How to Get From Aqaba to Wadi Rum By Bus

The local mini buses run from Aqaba to Wadi Rum a number of times a day. When using the local Jordanian buses, it is useful to know that there is no strict timetable. Instead, bus drivers wait until the minibus is full before departing, which can take a while. In order to get a rough estimate of departure times, it is best to ask the drivers in Aqaba the day before. The buses leave from the station located outside of Aqaba Police Station, and a one-way journey costs just 3JD (4.25USD). Tickets cannot be booked in advance, and as this bus is primarily used to take staff and students to a local school, the buses can fill up very quickly.

Getting from Aqaba to Wadi Rum By Taxi

A taxi is a convenient way to get from Aqaba to Wadi Rum. A taxi from the center of Aqaba will usually cost around 20JD (28.25USD) one way for up to four people sharing.

How to Get From Aqaba to Petra by Transfer

A private transfer from Aqaba to Wadi Rum costs from $105 one-way per vehicle. It is also possible to arrange a return transfer whereby the driver will wait for visitors in Wadi Rum and take them back to Aqaba in the afternoon. We offer a Private Transfer from Aqaba ↔ Wadi Rum, which seamlessly takes you from Aqaba to Wadi Rum (or vice versa), in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. 

Best way to Get From Aqaba to Wadi Rum

As it takes only around 50 minutes to get from Aqaba to Wadi Rum, there are many ways for visitors to reach the desert. Though the cheapest option is a local bus, it may prove challenging for those on a tight timeframe because buses fill up and waiting times can be long. Tours to Wadi Rum are usually the best option for those seeking unique experiences with maximum comfort and ease.

See all Wadi Rum Tours