Jebel Rum Complete Guide

Jebel Rum, standing at 1,754 meters, is the crown jewel of Wadi Rum and Jordan's second highest peak. As a guide who has climbed this mountain countless times, I can tell you that reaching its summit is one of the most rewarding experiences in desert mountaineering.

Why Climb Jebel Rum?

From the summit, you can see the entire Wadi Rum desert spread below you like a vast red ocean. On clear days, you can even see into Saudi Arabia. The climb itself takes you through some of the most spectacular terrain in Wadi Rum-narrow siqs (canyons), exposed traverses, ancient juniper trees, and the gleaming white summit domes.

Main Routes to the Summit

1. Hammad's Route (Most Popular)

• • Grade: II-III (Moderate to Hard)
• • Time: 6-8 hours round trip
• • Character: Traditional Bedouin route via south face with scrambling and moderate climbing

This is the route most climbers take. It follows traditional Bedouin paths with a combination of hiking, scrambling, and some sections of moderate climbing. The route is well-marked with cairns and offers spectacular views throughout.

2. Sheikh Hamdan's Route (Historic)

• • Grade: P.D. (Peu Difficile - Moderate)
• • Time: 3-4 hours ascent
• • Character: North face via Great Siq, exposed but easier technically

The first recorded Western ascent route from 1952. This historic route takes the shaded north-facing wall through the Great Siq, following a long rising ledge to the summit domes. Requires a head for heights but offers a fascinating connection to climbing history.

What to Expect

The Approach

We'll drive you by 4x4 to the base of the mountain, usually to Wadi Rumman or near the Great Siq depending on which route we're taking. The approach walk is relatively short-typically 30-60 minutes through beautiful desert terrain.

The Climb

The climbing involves a mix of:

• • Scrambling: Using hands and feet on easier terrain
• • Moderate Climbing: Short sections requiring climbing skills (we provide ropes for safety)
• • Exposed Traverses: Ledges with significant drop-offs (secured with ropes)
• • Route Finding: Following cairns and natural lines through the domes

The Summit

The summit area is a plateau of white domes with several high points. We'll navigate through these to reach the true summit at 1,754m. The views are absolutely spectacular-you can see the entire Wadi Rum protected area, the village far below, and on clear days, the mountains of Saudi Arabia to the south.

Overnight Summit Option

One of my favorite experiences is camping on the summit plateau. We carry up camping equipment, food, and water, and spend the night at 1,750m elevation. Watching the sunset paint the desert red, then seeing the stars come out in the clear desert sky, is truly unforgettable.

In the morning, you wake up above the clouds sometimes, with the sunrise illuminating the entire desert. It's a magical experience that I highly recommend if you have the time.

What You Need

Fitness Level

You need good physical fitness and comfort with heights. Previous hiking or scrambling experience is helpful but not required-we'll teach you what you need to know. The climb is more about endurance and mental comfort with exposure than technical difficulty.

What We Provide

• ✓ Experienced Bedouin guide
• ✓ All safety equipment (ropes, harnesses, helmets)
• ✓ 4x4 transportation to trailhead
• ✓ Water and snacks
• ✓ Traditional Bedouin lunch
• ✓ Camping equipment (for overnight trips)

What to Bring

• • Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
• • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• • Layers (it can be cool in the morning and hot during the day)
• • Camera (the views are incredible!)
• • Personal water bottle

Best Time to Climb

The best months for climbing Jebel Rum are October through April when temperatures are cooler. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, though early morning starts make it possible. Winter (December-February) can be cold at the summit, especially for overnight trips-bring warm layers!

Jebel Rum is more than just a mountain-it's a journey through Bedouin history, spectacular geology, and some of the most beautiful desert landscapes on Earth. I look forward to sharing this experience with you.