Some poisonous species of snakes and scorpions can be found in the protected area. If you are bitten by a snake or scorpion, try and note its color and markings, tie a tourniquet above the bite, immobilize the affected area, and obtain medical help as soon as possible.

Yes, Wadi Rum is a desert ecosystem and is home to several species of snakes and scorpions, though they are rarely encountered by tourists. There are roughly ten types of snakes in the region, including two poisonous vipers (such as the Arabian Horned Viper), but they are nocturnal and incredibly shy, usually hiding deep in the sand or rocks during the day. Scorpions are more common than snakes, particularly the "Yellow Scorpion" and the "Black Scorpion." While their stings are painful and require medical attention, they are not typically fatal to healthy adults. To stay safe in 2026, bedouin guides recommend never sticking your hands into dark crevices, shaking out your shoes/boots before putting them on in the morning, and always wearing closed-toe shoes when walking through the dunes at night, as these creatures are most active when the desert temperatures drop.