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Wadi Rum - Jordan Most Beatifull Valley |
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Written by Maria C.
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Tuesday, 10 July 2007 |
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  This is a stupendous, timeless place, virtually untouched by humanity and its destructive forces. Here, it is the weather and winds that have carved the imposing, towering skyscrapers, so elegantly described by T.E. Lawrence as “vast, echoing and god-like”..
 | Touring Wadi Rum in a hot air balloon is an unforgettable experience. 
A maze of monolithic rockscapes rise up from the desert floor to heights of 1,750 metres creating a natural challenge for serious mountaineers. Hikers can enjoy the tranquility of the boundless empty spaces, explore the canyons and water holes to discover 4000 year old rock drawings and the many other spectacular treasures this vast wilderness holds in store.  |  | When visiting Wadi Rum remember to bring something warm to wear at night as temperatures can vary from a daytime average of 32°C down to 4°C at night. See the table below for average seasonal temperatures:
| Month | | Lowest | | Highest | | | | January | | 4°C | | 15°C | | April | | 12°C | | 25°C | | July | | 19°C | | 36°C | | October | | 13°C | | 29°C |
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Also known as ‘The Valley of the Moon’, this is the place where Prince Faisal Bin Hussein and T.E. Lawrence based their headquarters during the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans in World War 1, and their exploits are intrinsically woven into the history of this amazing area. | | Always remember to ask permission before taking photographs of the local Bedouin people. |
 | A campsite in Wadi Rum. |
There are several options for exploring Wadi Rum. Visitors should head for the Visitors Centre where, apart from visitors’ facilities, they can hire a 4x4 vehicle, together with driver/guide, and then drive for two or three hours into the Wadi system to explore some of the best known sites. Alternatively they can hire a camel and guide. The duration of the trip can be arranged beforehand through the Visitors Centre, as can a stay under the stars in a Bedouin tent, where they can enjoy a traditional campfire meal accompanied by Arabic music. | | Always dress modestly when visiting an area inhabited by the Bedouin. Their culture is very different to those of more liberal western cultures and skimpy shorts and tops will be considered disrespectful. | | |
 | Burdah Rock Bridge stands 35m high and is considered one of the highest natural arches in the world. |
Once transport has been arranged, there are various excursions available - for example, a trip to Burdah Rock Bridge, the highest in Wadi Rum, via the Seven Pillars of Wisdom and many other interesting sights, is a full day by car or an overnight trip by camel. There are many alternative routes and information on these is available from your tour operator or from the Visitors Centre on-site.
The Bedouin people that inhabit the area still maintain their semi-nomadic lifestyle. They are hospitable and offer a friendly welcome to visitors, often inviting them to sit and enjoy a coffee or even a meal. |
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 18 August 2007 )
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