How to Leave Wadi Rum
Your guide to taxis, buses and private transfers from Wadi Rum to your next stop in Jordan.
How to Leave Wadi Rum: Transport Guide
Leaving Wadi Rum is simple with a bit of planning. Most departures start from Rum Village or the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, depending on your accommodation. Transportation can be arranged by rental car, private taxi, or public bus to destinations such as Aqaba, Petra, Amman, and the Dead Sea. Since Wadi Rum is a remote desert area, it is recommended to organize your onward travel at least one day in advance, especially during high season.
Leaving Wadi Rum by Car
Traveling by rental car or private driver is the most flexible and convenient way to leave Wadi Rum. Roads are well maintained, and major destinations are within a reasonable driving distance.
Approximate driving times from Rum Village or the Visitor Center:
Aqaba: about 1 hour
Aqaba offers Red Sea beaches, diving sites, hotels, and an international airport.Petra: about 2 hours
Home to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.Amman: about 4 hours
Jordan’s capital, with cultural attractions and major airports. On the way, you can stop at Karak Castle, one of Jordan’s most impressive Crusader fortresses.Dead Sea: about 5 hours
The lowest point on Earth, known for resorts and beaches. Possible stops include Dana Biosphere Reserve, Wadi Mujib viewpoints, and Dead Sea scenic lookouts.
Leaving Wadi Rum by Bus or Taxi
Public buses and taxis connect Wadi Rum with nearby cities such as Aqaba, Petra, and Amman. Buses are the most affordable option and work well for travelers with flexible schedules. Taxis are faster and more direct, making them a good choice if time is limited. Since no taxis wait in the village, it’s best to arrange one in advance through your camp.
Transportation from Wadi Rum to Aqaba
Local Bus (Rum Bus):
Departs from Rum Village early in the morning (usually around 6:30 AM, except Fridays). This service is mainly used by locals, and availability can vary. Typical fare: 5–7 JOD. Check with your camp or host for the latest schedule.
JETT Bus:
JETT Bus operates a daily service from the Wadi Rum Visitor Center to Aqaba. Travel time is about 1 hour, with tickets costing around 15 JOD. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Taxi:
A taxi is the fastest and most comfortable option, taking about 1 hour with direct drop-off at your accommodation.
Typical fares:
Aqaba city center: 25–30 JOD
South Beach: 35–40 JOD
Wadi Araba border: 35–40 JOD
King Hussein International Airport: 40–50 JOD
Note: No taxis wait in Rum Village, so taxis should be arranged in advance through your camp or host.
Transportation from Wadi Rum to Petra
Local Bus (Petra Bus):
Departs daily from Rum Village in the morning (usually around 9:00 AM). Travel time is approximately 2–2.5 hours, with fares around 10–12 JOD. This can often be arranged through your accommodation or online booking.
JETT Bus:
JETT Bus also operates a daily service from the Wadi Rum Visitor Center to Petra, taking about 2–2.5 hours. Tickets cost around 20 JOD, and advance online booking is recommended during busy months.
Taxi:
The fastest option, taking about 1.5 hours, with the possibility of stopping at scenic viewpoints. Typical fare: 40–45 JOD. Taxis should be arranged at least one day in advance.
Transportation from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea
There is no direct public bus from Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea. Travel is usually done by private taxi, rental car, or via Amman. The journey takes about 5 hours.
Private taxi fares typically range between 120–130 JOD. Along the way, travelers can stop at Dana Reserve, Wadi Mujib, and Dead Sea viewpoints, making the journey part of the experience.
Transportation from Wadi Rum to Amman
JETT Bus:
JETT Bus operates a daily service from the Wadi Rum Visitor Center to Amman. Travel time is approximately 4–5 hours, with tickets costing around 25 JOD. Advance booking is strongly recommended during peak season.
If you need to leave earlier in the day, you can travel first to Aqaba and catch a JETT Bus from Aqaba to Amman.
Taxi:
The fastest and most comfortable option, taking around 4 hours.
Typical fares:
Amman city center: 110–120 JOD
Queen Alia International Airport: 100–110 JOD
Taxis must be arranged in advance, as none are stationed in Rum Village.
Still Have Questions?
If you need help planning your departure from Wadi Rum or would like us to arrange transportation for you, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help make your journey smooth and stress-free.