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.