Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum Facts

• Wadi Rum serves as the name of a crescent-shaped valley in an especially arid portion of Asia. The rather breathtaking valley also remains the largest wadi in the country.
• Evidence strongly indicates that this natural marvel has seen sporadic inhabitation since prehistoric times. Currently, the valley serves as the homeland of the Zalabia Bedouin.
• In fact, the tourism trade has become the main source of income for the native inhabitants.
• Additionally, the location stars in numerous films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Red Planet, Prometheus, The Frankincense Route, Reformers: Revenge of the Fallen, and The Martian.
• The valley also remains popularly known as The Valley of the Moon.

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Wadi Rum Physical Description

The fantastic Wadi Rum itself is carved into the granite and sandstone of the region. The main valley forms the centerpiece of an impressive geological region.

The total area of this magnificent work of Nature measures roughly 280 sq mi (720 sq km). These dimensions easily rank it as the largest wadi in the entire country.

Its unique and impressive geology has made the region has also become rather popular with tourists. Principal tourism activities include rock climbing and guided tours.

Wadi Rum Location and History

The incredible wonder of Wadi Rum sits in the southern part of the country of Jordan, in Asia. The wadi itself sits at an altitude of about 5,741 ft (1,750 m).

Within it also lies Mount Um Dami, which ranks as the highest point in Jordan. The peak measures 6,040 ft (1,840 m) above sea level.

Even though it does not seem high, on a clear day, one can see both the Saudi border and the Red Sea from there.

Rock paintings dating back roughly 10,000 years exist in several locations in Wadi Rum. UNESCO named the entire region a World Heritage Site.

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