Wadi Rum literally means 'High Valley' and is one of the most spectacular desert locations in Jordan - and consequently second only to Petra as a tourist destination. It's the place to go for an easily accessible 'desert' experience, whether hiking with local Bedouin Guides, or staying in a luxury tented camp. It's also famous as the site of some of Lawrence of Arabia's exploits - he based himself here during the Arab Revolt towards the end of World War 1. One of the most impressive local rock formations was named by him the 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom', which then became the title of his famous book. David Lean filmed large parts of his movie epic 'Lawrence of Arabia' in Wadi Rum.

It has also become a popular destination, since the mid-1980s, for rock climbing. The Jabal Rum peak is 1754 metres high, and on a clear day you can see as far as Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea.

For the best desert experience, hire a local Bedouin guide and go on a two or three day trek by camel - you will get right away from the minibus tourists, out into the virgin desert, and sleeping in the open under the stars beside the open-sided bedouin tents is an experience you will never forget. Riding camels is strangely relaxing, though plenty of blankets help to minimise sore bottoms. the best way on a long trek is to alternate walking and riding, as the Bedouin do. Nights can be bitterly cold in the winter - the best times to go into the desert are spring and autumn, when the heat of the day is bearable.

For further information, see www.wadirum.jo

Written by  James Dunford Wood.

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