The Best Camel Ride Tours in Wadi Rum: Sunrise vs Sunset
Exploring Wadi Rum on camelback connects you to the desert's ancient traditions and offers a pace that allows you to truly absorb the landscape's majesty. While jeep tours cover more ground, camel rides provide a more authentic, immersive experience. The two most popular times for camel tours are sunrise and sunset—each offering distinct advantages and magical qualities. This guide compares these experiences to help you choose the perfect camel adventure.
Sunrise Camel Tours: The Desert Awakens
The Experience
A sunrise camel tour typically begins in the pre-dawn darkness. You'll mount your camel while stars still shine overhead and set off across the cool sands. As the first light appears, the desert transforms minute by minute—dark silhouettes gradually revealing their red hues as shadows retreat and the landscape comes alive.
Advantages of Sunrise Tours
Cooler temperatures: Especially important during summer months
Unique lighting: The soft morning light creates gentle colors and contrasts
Tranquility: Fewer visitors mean a more peaceful experience
Wildlife sightings: Desert animals are more active in early morning
Full day ahead: Leaves the rest of your day free for other activities
Magical transition: Experiencing the desert awakening from darkness
What to Expect
Early start: Typically 4:30-5:30 AM depending on season
Duration: Usually 2-3 hours including tea break
Temperature range: Can be quite cool at the start, warming gradually
Terrain: Varied routes through valleys and open plains
Breakfast: Often includes a traditional Bedouin breakfast after the ride
Sunset Camel Tours: The Golden Hour
The Experience
Sunset camel tours begin in the late afternoon when the day's heat has begun to subside. As you sway gently atop your camel, you'll watch the sun descend toward the horizon, casting long shadows and bathing the red sandstone in increasingly intense colors. The tour typically concludes as twilight settles over the desert.
Advantages of Sunset Tours
Spectacular colors: The most vibrant reds, oranges, and purples
Comfortable timing: No pre-dawn wake-up required
Perfect for photography: The golden hour light is unmatched
Romantic atmosphere: Ideal for couples
Cooler temperatures: As the sun sets, the heat of the day dissipates
Potential stargazing: Some tours extend into early evening for stargazing
What to Expect
Afternoon departure: Typically 3:00-4:00 PM depending on season
Duration: Usually 2-3 hours including tea break
Temperature range: Warm at start, cooling significantly by end
Terrain: Often includes stops at elevated viewpoints for sunset
Tea service: Usually includes a tea break at a scenic location
Practical Considerations for Both Tours
Physical Comfort
Camel riding involves a distinctive swaying motion that takes some getting used to. Consider:
Riding duration: Most tours include 1-1.5 hours of actual riding time
Mounting/dismounting: Requires some flexibility
Seating: Traditional saddles with blankets and handles for support
Walking breaks: Periodic stops to stretch your legs
What to Wear
For sunrise tours:
Layers that can be removed as temperatures rise
Warm jacket or fleece for the pre-dawn start
Hat and sunglasses for when the sun appears
Closed shoes with socks
For sunset tours:
Light, breathable clothing
Long sleeves for sun protection
Extra layer for after sunset
Closed shoes with socks
What to Bring
Camera with dust protection
Water bottle
Small backpack for personal items
Sunscreen
Lip balm (desert air is very dry)
Making Your Choice: Sunrise or Sunset?
Consider these factors when deciding:
Your schedule: Are you a morning person or do you prefer afternoons?
Season of visit: In summer, sunrise tours are much more comfortable
Photography interests: Sunset offers more dramatic colors
Other activities: How does the camel tour fit with your overall itinerary?
Group preferences: Children often do better in morning tours when they're fresh
Beyond Sunrise and Sunset: Other Camel Tour Options
If neither sunrise nor sunset tours fit your schedule, consider:
Mid-morning tours: Good compromise between early rising and heat
Late afternoon tours: Catch beautiful light without staying until sunset
Multi-hour treks: For more adventurous travelers
Overnight tours: Combine camel riding with desert camping
Whichever time you choose, a camel tour through Wadi Rum offers a perspective on the desert that connects you to thousands of years of human history in this remarkable landscape. The rhythmic pace and elevated vantage point create a meditative experience unlike any other desert activity.
