Wadi Rum, also known as The Valley of the Moon, is the largest desert valley in Jordan. Located approximately 60 kilometers east of Aqaba, this protected area is defined by its vast sandstone and granite formations. The name “Rum” is believed to derive from an Aramaic root meaning “high” or “elevated,” and is often transliterated in Arabic as “Wadi Ramm.”
This desert landscape spans miles of reddish sands and towering rock formations known as jebels. The dramatic scenery makes Wadi Rum one of Jordan’s most recognizable landmarks, and a common stop on Jordan Private Tours, Petra tours from Amman, and Jordan group tours.
Geology of Wadi Rum
The geology of Wadi Rum is shaped by the same tectonic activity that formed the Great Rift Valley. This movement pushed layers of sandstone and granite into sharp, angular formations over millions of years. The rock layers in Wadi Rum date back to the Cambrian, Ordovician, and Silurian periods, and are separated by visible layers of quartz and shale.
Jebel Rum, standing at 1,754 meters above sea level, is the second-highest peak in Jordan. Across from it lies Jebel Umm Ishreen at 1,753 meters. Both mountains dominate the horizon and contribute to the area's geological significance.
Many of the landscape features—mushroom rocks, arches, and weather-sculpted formations—are the result of wind erosion and flash flooding over millennia. Rainwater, trapped by underlying granite, led to the formation of springs throughout the region.
Archaeological and Historical Significance
Archaeological evidence shows that humans have inhabited Wadi Rum since the Paleolithic period. Early settlers relied on the region’s springs and wildlife. Over time, they transitioned from nomadic lifestyles to settled communities during the Neolithic period.
Wadi Rum was also a notable location for the Nabateans, who built dams and water systems here as part of their trade network extending from Petra. Inscriptions in Nabataean and Minaean scripts, as well as those left by the Thamudic people, can be found etched into the rocks.
Historical references to Wadi Rum appear in various ancient texts. Some scholars believe it was known as "Aramaua" in Ptolemy’s Geography, and possibly as “Ad” in the Quran. Due to its water resources and proximity to Petra, Wadi Rum served as a vital rest point for traders and travelers.
T.E. Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, spent time in Wadi Rum during the Arab Revolt (1917–1918). He praised its remoteness and natural beauty in his writings, contributing to its fame in the 20th century.
Ecology and Wildlife
Although wildlife numbers have declined, Wadi Rum still supports a variety of species. Nocturnal animals such as Arabian sand cats, fennec foxes, hyraxes, and gerbils are commonly found. During the day, visitors may spot ibex or gazelle.
Bird species include vultures, eagles, Sinai rose finches, and crested larks. Efforts by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) have led to the reintroduction of Arabian oryx to the area. Reptiles and invertebrates such as snakes, scorpions, and camel spiders are also part of the desert ecosystem.