Wadi Rum camel ride: a slow way through the desert

A Wadi Rum camel ride is the slowest way to see the desert, and that is exactly the point. Camels have carried people and goods through this part of southern Jordan for a very long time, and riding one today still feels close to how the desert was crossed before jeeps arrived. This guide explains what a camel trek is like, the different lengths you can choose, the best time to go, what to wear, how to look out for the animals, and how to arrange one during your stay at SunCity Camp.

What a Wadi Rum camel ride is like

The camels of Wadi Rum are dromedaries, the one-humped camels of Arabia. They are tall, calm animals, and most rides begin with the camel kneeling on the sand so you can climb into the saddle.

The first few seconds are the part everyone remembers. A camel stands up back legs first, so you tip forward, then rock back as the front legs straighten. Lean back slightly, hold the saddle handle, and it is over quickly. Getting down works the same way in reverse.

Once you are moving, the pace is a steady walk. The rhythm is a gentle sway from side to side, very different from a horse. Usually a Bedouin guide walks ahead leading the camel, or rides alongside, so you do not need any experience. On longer rides, some guides will let confident riders take the reins on open ground.

What you notice most is the quiet. Without an engine, you hear the soft pad of the camel's feet on the sand, the wind, and your guide talking or singing. You sit high enough to see over the low dunes and towards the sandstone mountains, and the landscape changes slowly as you move through it.

How long is a camel ride in Wadi Rum?

Camel trips in Wadi Rum come in a few general shapes. Exact routes, lengths and prices vary, and the team confirms the details when you arrange one.

A short ride

A short ride is a taste of the experience, usually close to camp or to a nearby sand area. It suits first-timers, children travelling with their parents, and anyone who wants the photos and the feeling of riding without spending hours in the saddle. A short ride also fits easily alongside a jeep tour on the same day.

A sunset ride

A sunset ride is timed so you are out in the desert as the light changes. The sandstone glows warm red and orange, the shadows grow long, and the air cools. Your guide will often stop at a high point or on a dune so you can get down and watch the sun go below the mountains. It is a lovely way to spend the hour before dinner.

A longer or overnight trek

For travellers with more time, some guides offer half-day and full-day treks, and longer trips that include a night out in the desert. These follow older routes between canyons and valleys and give you a real sense of distance. They are best for people who are comfortable with heat, simple conditions and long hours in the saddle. If this interests you, ask the team well in advance so they can find out what is possible for your dates.

If you have never ridden a camel before, start with a short or sunset ride. Even an hour can leave your legs and back feeling it the next day.

Best time for a Wadi Rum camel ride

Time of day

Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to ride. The light is soft, the temperature is kinder for both you and the camel, and the colours of the desert are at their richest. Midday rides are possible in the cooler months, but in summer they are hot and tiring.

A sunset ride is a favourite, and for good reason. A morning ride, close to sunrise, is quieter and just as beautiful, with cool air and long, gentle shadows over the sand.

Season

• March to May and September to November are the most comfortable, with warm days and cool nights. This is the best season for longer treks.
• December to February brings mild, sunny days and cold nights, sometimes near freezing. Daytime rides are pleasant; bring warm layers for early mornings and evenings.
• June to August has hot days, often above 35°C. Keep rides short and go early in the morning or near sunset.

For a fuller picture of the seasons, see our guide to the best time to visit Wadi Rum.

What to wear on a camel ride

Comfort matters more than anything here. You will be sitting astride a saddle, swaying for a while, and exposed to sun and wind.

• Long, loose trousers. They protect your legs from rubbing on the saddle and from the sun. Shorts and short skirts are uncomfortable on a camel.
• A light, long-sleeved top. Breathable fabric keeps the sun off your arms and is respectful of local customs.
• A hat and sunglasses. There is no shade in open desert. A hat that ties on or fits snugly is better than one that blows away.
• A scarf. Useful against sun, wind and blowing sand. Your guide may show you how to wrap it the Bedouin way.
• Closed shoes. Trainers or light walking shoes are easiest for climbing on and off and for walking on sand.
• A warm layer. For sunset and sunrise rides, especially from late autumn to early spring, when the temperature drops quickly once the sun is low.
• Sunscreen and water. Even on a short ride, bring water and put on sunscreen before you set off.

Keep your bag small. A light backpack is easier than a shoulder bag, and keep your phone or camera on a strap so you do not drop it from the saddle.

Animal welfare: how to ride responsibly

Camels are at the heart of Bedouin life, and a well-cared-for camel is a calm, healthy one. As a visitor, you can help by paying attention and choosing thoughtfully.

• Look at the animals. A healthy camel looks alert, has a good body condition, and has no open sores or wounds, especially where the saddle sits. If something looks wrong, it is fine to say no.
• Check the saddle. It should be padded and fit well. Thin or poorly fitted saddles can hurt the animal.
• Watch how the camels are handled. Good guides handle their animals calmly, without hitting or shouting.
• Respect rest and shade. Camels should have water, rest and shade between rides, and should not be worked hard in the heat of the day.
• Be honest about weight limits. Guides may set limits for the camel's sake. Follow their advice, and share a camel only when they suggest it.
• Follow your guide. Listen to the briefing, keep still while the camel stands and kneels, and do not pull hard on the reins or kick.
• Give feedback. If you have any concerns after a ride, tell the team. It helps everyone keep standards high.

How to arrange a Wadi Rum camel ride from SunCity

Camel rides, like jeep tours, hiking and stargazing, are run by the local Bedouin community rather than by the camp, and they are not included in the stay. We help arrange them for you, and the team confirms prices and times.

The easiest way is to message the team on WhatsApp before you arrive, or ask at reception once you are at camp. It helps to share:

• Your dates and how many people are riding, including children.
• The kind of ride you have in mind: short, sunset, or something longer.
• Any other activities you want on the same day, such as a jeep tour, so the timings fit together.

Check-in is from 14:00, and arriving in the afternoon gives you time to settle in before sunset. Dinner is from 19:30, so a late afternoon ride fits neatly before the Zarb, the Bedouin underground barbecue that is the camp's signature dinner. Breakfast and dinner are included in every stay. You can read more on our dining page.

For other ways to explore, see the experiences page, our guide to the Wadi Rum jeep tour, or a full Wadi Rum itinerary.

Where to stay for your camel trek

SunCity Camp is a family-owned luxury camp inside the Wadi Rum Protected Area, known for its Martian Domes. After a ride, it is good to come back to air conditioning or heating, a hot shower in your private en-suite bathroom, and a comfortable bed. Choose from the Martian Dome, the Grande Suite, the Deluxe Tent or the Family Suite, depending on who is travelling with you.

Questions people ask

Is a Wadi Rum camel ride included in the stay?

No. Camel rides are run by the local Bedouin community and arranged separately. The team helps you book one and confirms the price and time.

Do I need riding experience?

No. A guide leads the camel, and the pace is a slow walk. Just hold on when the camel stands up and kneels down, and lean back slightly.

Is a camel ride suitable for children?

A short ride is usually the best fit for families. Ask the team when you arrange it, and the guide can advise what works for your children's ages.

How long should my first ride be?

A short ride or a sunset ride is a good first choice. You will get the full feeling of it without being sore the next day.

What is the best time of day for a camel ride?

Early morning or late afternoon, when it is cooler and the light is soft. Sunset is a lovely time to be out.

Can I combine a camel ride with a jeep tour?

Yes, the two fit well in one day. Let the team know when you arrange your activities so the timings work together.

What if I'm not comfortable riding?

That is completely fine. A jeep tour or a gentle walk on the sand are good alternatives for seeing the desert at your own pace.

When you are ready to plan your stay, booking direct on our website is the simplest way, or send us a message on WhatsApp and the team will help arrange your camel ride.