My trip to the Desert Castles and the Eastern Desert was one of the most unforgettable experiences I had during my time in Jordan. The area felt incredibly remote and mesmerizing in its stark beauty. We embarked on this journey with little idea of what we were doing, relying on research, instinct, and a bit of luck. Here are some tips to help you plan your adventure.
You Will Need a Car
While there are tours available, they usually only cover a few locations around Azraq, which are worth seeing. However, to explore the Eastern Desert fully and visit its many intriguing sights, having your own car is essential. Several spots have limited or no public transportation. For example, while you can reach Umm Al-Jimaal by bus, it’s a time-consuming trip that can take almost your entire day. Plus, there’s no guarantee the buses will operate on schedule. Check out my post on renting cars in Jordan for more details. A 4WD vehicle is advisable for reaching some of the more remote places like Qasr Burqu, although a high-clearance car might suffice.
Plan for Long Distances
The Eastern Desert covers vast distances. For instance, traveling from Amman to Qasr Burqu can take over three hours, and from Azraq, it’s about 1.5 to 2 hours each way. Umm Al-Jimaal is another 1.5 hours from Azraq in a different direction. If you plan to stay overnight, Azraq is your best bet for accommodation, being the only place with hotels. Plan accordingly to ensure you have enough time for your trip.
Fuel Up Whenever Possible
Given the long stretches of road with little between destinations, it’s crucial to refuel whenever you have the chance. Gas stations can be sparse, sometimes over 100 kilometers apart. While the roads do see some traffic from trucks traveling between Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, being stranded is not ideal—especially in the vast desert. Better safe than sorry.
Bring Food and Water
This advice is good for any road trip but especially important here. While Azraq offers a few good places to eat and restock, you should carry provisions with you. This ensures that you’re prepared for any delays or if you simply want to explore without worrying about finding food or water. Always carry enough water, especially since temperatures can get very high outside the winter months.
Don’t Forget a Smartphone
Having a smartphone proved invaluable, especially for GPS. Google Maps can accurately locate places even in remote areas like Qasr Burqu. A smartphone allows you to search for locations and maintain your bearings, which is crucial when navigating the open desert.
Spend More Than a Day
Many travelers I met wanted to see the Eastern Desert but only planned for a day. Don’t make this mistake. The destinations are spread out, and you’ll need adequate time to explore them fully. Places like Umm Al-Jimaal and Qasr Burqu are far apart, and rushing through them would be a disservice. I regret not spending a third day in the region, as there was so much more to see and explore.
Accommodation Options
If you decide to extend your stay, there are a few places to stay in Azraq. The Azraq Lodge, a former British Military hospital turned eco-lodge, is the top choice for those willing to splurge. It features beautiful architecture and a popular dinner buffet. Budget travelers might prefer Hotel Zubi, located in town, though booking requires in-person arrangements or calling ahead (if the phone line is working). The Azraq Hotel offers a middle-ground option in terms of amenities and price.
For more information and inspiration, check out my detailed posts about visiting the Eastern Desert, sharing advice, stories, and humor:
– Visiting the Eastern Desert Part 1 & Part 2
– The Abandoned City
– The Oasis
– Qasr-ain
