Wadi Rum is one of the best places in Jordan to stargaze. Just over three hours by road from the capital Amman, the site is UNESCO World Heritage listed for its cultural and geological significance. Boasting cave paintings and rolling dunes, Wadi Rum offers a world of adventure. By night, the velvet sky is illuminated by bright constellations and even meteor showers visible to the naked eye.
Nestled at the foot of a canyon, Memories Aicha Camp offers Bedouin hospitality and traditional experiences. Experience this otherworldly destination on a 4WD jeep tour, which take you out into the desert to discover archaeological sites and scenic viewpoints. Back at the camp, enjoy a delicious traditional buffet before relaxing in the atmospheric lounge which is carved into the canyon itself.
As night falls, return to your tent and enjoy its ornate Arabian décor. Dramatically decorated in Bedouin style, these geodesic tents offer floor to ceiling domed windows looking out onto the landscape. Here, all you need to do is pull back the curtains to put the full majesty of the Milky Way on display.
Visiting the ancient city of Petra is a must-do for anyone coming to Jordan. Carved from rose red sandstone, it is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and it’s easy to see why. The city is accessed through a narrow and winding gorge called Al-Siq.
Just a stone’s throw from the entrance, Petra Moon Luxury Hotel boasts excellent facilities including a fitness centre and Turkish spa. At the end of an exciting day of exploring, look out onto the rugged desert from your rooftop terrace.
If you’re looking for a truly secluded stay in the desert, look no further than the beautiful Palmera Camp, located in Wadi Rum. There’s no other lodge in sight, with the camp surrounded by a stunning valley. We love the Sultan Tents which offer plush furnishings and expansive windows looking out onto this unearthly landscape. They also feature a private covered terrace from which to breathe in the fresh air. This camp is a brilliant choice for those looking to get away from it all.
No trip to Jordan is complete without getting a taste of Bedouin culture. These nomadic communities have travelled across the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa for millennia. Learn about this fascinating culture at Mazayen Rum Camp. Enjoy a classic Bedouin dinner with traditional dishes and sit out on the decking under the stars. Back at your Deluxe Tent with fabric draped ceilings and colourful carpets, immerse yourself in this unique desert experience.
Rising above the red valley like a Martian basecamp, Petra Bubble Luxotel offers unique accommodation with views across the Shahara mountains. Dotted along the hillside are space-age suites which feature a transparent domed roof. Furnished with a living area and separate bedroom, these plush pods offer impressive accommodation. Stargaze from the comfort of your bed or luxuriate in the jacuzzi on your private decking. Just ten minutes from the gateway to Petra, this camp offers the best of both worlds: striking desert views and proximity to an archaeological marvel.
Located in the centre of Wadi Rum, the Rum Imagination Luxury Camp blends effortlessly with its surroundings with open sided communal areas that offer sweeping views across the valley. The heart of the camp is the plush lounge which is carved into the imposing red sandstone and is decorated with colourful Bedouin rugs and cushions. Enjoy a blend of traditional design with modern amenities in the contemporary tented suites, which offer both a covered seating area and a bright rooftop terrace from which to watch the sunset.
In Jordan’s largest nature reserve, explore mountainous desert terrain as you hike past remote Berber villages and ancient copper mines. The Dana Nature Reserve is a strikingly biodiverse region stretching from mountains to desert lowlands.
Feynan Ecolodge offers a back-to-basics experience for those wanting to get closer to nature. The whole place is illuminated by candles at night and it offers delicious vegetarian meals. Friendly Bedouin staff lead guided hikes which take you on a journey through history, with the nature reserve home to archaeological remnants of Roman, Byzantine and Neolithic settlements. Perhaps go mountain biking or get to know the local community with a cooking class. By night, look out from your terrace and watch the sky come to life with stars. This is a great option for those looking for a truly off the grid experience.
With three-quarters of Jordan made up of desert, it’s no wonder that there is incredible accommodation on offer. Fascinating Bedouin culture, excellent stargazing and archaeological treasures come together to make a desert stay a lovely addition to any Jordan itinerary.
For more inspiration, take a look at our Jordan Holidays pages.
Written by Rosie
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