Wadi Rum Makes The UNESCO Cut

4th August 2011

Although well-established on the Exodus must-see hit list, the natural wonder that is Jordan’s Wadi Rum is a newcomer to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list.

Long-term favourite with the Exodus trekking fraternity, Wadi Rum is a unique 74,000-hectare desert in southwest Jordan and is the 211th natural wonder to be added to the list.

Its undulating rock formations and maze-like canyons are an adventure playground for trekkers, while its rock carvings and archaeological remains testifying to 12,000 years of human interaction with the natural environment, are fascinating for those seeking cultural discovery.

“Wadi Rum is composed of scenically stunning natural and cultural attributes in a lived-in desert environment where geology has been the ever-present artist,” says Allen Putney, Vice-Chair for World Heritage of IUCN’s World Commission on Protected Areas. “IUCN welcomes this inscription and hopes that it will lead to enhanced protection and management of the site.”

Holidays in Jordan that visit Wadi Rum offer a unique opportunity to meet the local Berber Bedouin community and experience their warm hospitality.

Camping in Wadi Rum is an adventure itself; as the stillness of night descends on the striking landscape, the sky over Wadi Rum comes to life with millions of stars shimmering overhead.

We think you will all agree, UNESCO made a good choice with Wadi Rum!