Jebel Rum | Wadi Rum

Jebel Rum is a massive sandstone and granite mountain located within the Wadi Rum Protected Area. Standing at 1,731 meters above sea level, it is the second-highest peak in Jordan and the highest point in the central Rum massif, dominating the western skyline of Rum Village.

Visual Characteristics

The mountain features a complex topography of vertical cliffs, deep canyons, and high plateaus. Its base is composed of Pre-Cambrian granite, while the upper sections consist of Paleozoic sandstone in varying shades of red, ochre, and tan. The rock faces exhibit extreme honeycomb weathering and massive fissures known as "siqs." The summit is a relatively flat, rocky expanse providing unobstructed views of the Saudi Arabian border and the surrounding desert basins.

Location & Access Logistics

The mountain is situated immediately west of Rum Village, approximately 5km south of the Wadi Rum Visitor Center. Access to the base is possible on foot from the village. The ascent to the summit requires technical climbing or advanced scrambling; the most common route is the "Sabbagh's Route" on the eastern face. Reaching the summit typically involves a 6 to 10-hour round trip and necessitates a professional local guide and technical gear.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Geologically, Jebel Rum is part of the crystalline basement of the Arabian-Nubian Shield, topped by sedimentary layers deposited over 500 million years ago. Historically, it has served as a critical landmark for desert navigation. It contains numerous permanent springs, such as Ayn ash-Shallalah, which have supported human settlement from the Neolithic period through the Nabataean and modern Bedouin eras.

Key Highlights & Activities

Technical rock climbing is the primary international draw, with world-class routes ranging from Grade 4 to Grade 8. Advanced trekking and scrambling are conducted via the eastern and western flanks. The mountain's base features the Nabataean Temple and Lawrence's Spring. The "Thamudic" inscriptions located in its lower canyons provide an archaeological record of ancient transit.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There is no infrastructure on the mountain itself. All logistical support, including water, food, and emergency communication, is based in Rum Village. 4G cellular signal is strong at the base and in the village but becomes shadowed or non-existent within the mountain's deep canyons. Professional guiding services are headquartered in the village.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal months for climbing and trekking are October through November and March through May. Summer temperatures on the exposed rock faces frequently exceed 40°C, making technical ascents hazardous. Winter (December–February) can bring freezing temperatures and snow to the summit. For photography, the morning light directly illuminates the eastern face overlooking the village.

Facts & Legends

Jebel Rum was long considered the highest peak in Jordan until topographic surveys confirmed Jebel Umm ad Dami (1,854m) near the Saudi border held the title. A local historical detail notes that the first recorded modern ascent was completed by a British team in 1949, though Bedouin ibex hunters had been navigating the upper reaches for centuries using traditional "Bedouin steps" carved into the rock.

Nearby Landmarks

Rum Village – 0.5km East

Nabataean Temple – 0.2km East (At base)

Lawrence's Spring – 3.5km South

Seven Pillars of Wisdom – 4.0km North

Khazali Canyon – 11.0km Southeast