How long does it take to get from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea?

A taxi transfer from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea takes around 4 hours and costs 110 JOD per car (fits up to 4 guests with average luggage).



The journey from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea typically takes between 4 and 5 hours by car. The distance is approximately 315 kilometers (195 miles) and follows two primary routes: the modern Desert Highway or the more scenic Dead Sea Highway (Route 65). Most travelers opt for a private transfer or a taxi, which is the most efficient method and allows for a "door-to-door" experience in about 4 hours and 20 minutes. If you are traveling by bus, the journey is significantly longer—often 6 to 8 hours—as there are no direct public buses between these two locations. You would typically need to take a minibus from Wadi Rum to a larger hub like Aqaba or Amman and then transfer to a JETT tourist bus. Because the drive passes through some of Jordan's most dramatic landscapes, many visitors choose to make it a full-day trip, stopping at the Dana Biosphere Reserve or the Shobak Castle along the way. In 2026, the roads are well-maintained, but travelers are advised to depart early to arrive at the Dead Sea in time to enjoy the unique sunset over the water.

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It's a 4 hour drive from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea is lowest point on earth at 420m below sea level.

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The main sights can be experienced in one full day, but for those who like hiking and exploring off the beaten track, two to three days is ideal. If you want to plan and make the most of your time in the desert, I'm sharing all the details from our two-day adventure trip in Wadi Rum below.

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The distance between Petra and Wadi Rum is about 110km, more or less 2 hours. Be careful as some parts of the road are damaged and dangerous. There are several transportation options between Petra and Wadi Rum. All transportations are direct, so it is pretty easy and fast.

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  • Jericho – Close to the northern edge of the Dead Sea and the oldest town in the middle east.
  • Jerusalem – Besides the Dead Sea, a central focus for most people coming to Israel.


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Wadi Rum is also about a day's worth of touring, and because of the desert heat it is better to be able to get an early start. An itinerary I would recommend is (3 nights): Arrive in Jordan and go straight to Petra, spend the night in Petra. Spend a full day exploring Petra, spend the night in Petra.

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Part of the reason that camping in Wadi Rum is so affordable during the initial booking process is that the guides running the camps make a good chunk of their money selling Jeep tours and camel rides. This is simply part of the process, and nothing to be worried about at all–but it helps to know what to expect.

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The cost to enter the Wadi Rum Protected Area is 5 JD per person (free with the Jordan Pass). Most buses that travel the highway between Aqaba and Petra/Amman should be able to drop you at the intersection to Wadi Rum, except the buses from Jett company.

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Spring and autumn are the most popular times to visit Wadi Rum, so expect to see many tourists at the popular sites. In March and November the nights can still be pretty cold with a minimum temperature of 5 °C (41 °F), but in the other months night temperatures rise up to 13 °C (55 °F).

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wadi rum protected area Only drive on the designated tracks. Protect nature: no hunting or collecting plants, animals, rocks, artifacts or firewood. Camp and climb in the official sites only. For fires, use gas stoves or charcoal.

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In March and November the nights can still be pretty cold with a minimum temperature of 5 °C (41 °F), but in the other months night temperatures rise up to 13 °C (55 °F). During the day, temperatures range from 19 °C (66°F) in March and November to 32 °C (89 °F) in the other months. Summer in Wadi Rum is low season.

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In the heart of the Jordanian desert, Wadi Rum boasts towering cliffs, dark caverns, narrow gorges, impressive mountains, sweeping dunes, and refreshing springs. Even better: it suits not just those who are looking for beauty and solitude, but adrenaline junkies as well.

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?45 JD per person (with lunch) Guides will either trek leading you with ropes or mounted on their own camel. *Please note evening camel rides are available but may cost extra.

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It is possible to explore without a guide when visiting Wadi Rum, either by hiking, or by taking a 4×4 through the desert. But, Wadi Rum is large and diverse, and it's very easy to get lost in the desert landscape. Given this, it's recommended to explore the desert with a guide.

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This concentration of iron oxide causes a red colouration and is one notable aspect of Wadi Rum. Across southern Jordan, places get their names from the ochre hues in the sand, including the Nabatean city of Petra.

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Facts you do not know about the Dead Sea... one of the strangest natural wonders in the world
  • The Dead Sea is one of the most saline bodies of water on earth. ...
  • The largest free spa on earth. ...
  • Experience floating easily on the waters of the Dead Sea. ...
  • The lowest point on earth. ...
  • The lowest river in the world flows into it.


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The sea is called dead because its high salinity means no macroscopic aquatic organisms such as fish or water plants can live in it, though minuscule quantities of bacteria and microbial fungi are present.

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No matter what time of year you choose to visit the Dead Sea, it's important to remember that swimming in its waters can be dangerous due to its high salt content and strong currents. Visitors must take safety precautions, such as wearing a life jacket or using a floatation device when swimming in these waters.

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