Wadi Sabet
Wadi Sabet is the primary valley in the white desert of Wadi Rum. It is a wide valley that runs east west and provides good views at sunrise and sunset. Little populated as it provides no shade throughout the day, it is one of the areas least impacted by human activity. Unlike the northern red desert, there are no high cliffs, however there are still a number of interesting sandstone formations the length of the valley.
The northern area of the Protected Area which although it has world class natural beauty is focused on historic and geologic tourist sites. The southern area, listed on the Wadi Rum map as the wilderness zone, is better recognised for its landscapes. As you travel throughout the white desert you will enjoy the ever changing landscapes. Wadi Rum has been widely used as a filming location to depict other planets. It does not just look like Mars though, the red desert area in the north is synonymous with a Martian landscape. The southern white desert however is constantly changing and appears as if you are entering a new landscape around every corner.
Wadi Sabet has more plant life than many of the valleys and provides a contrast to the barren desert to the north. The valley has small shrubs throughout and becomes green and desert flowers emerge following winter rains.
Wadi Sabet is experienced on trekking tours to Umm ad Dami, where you will pass through the valley to reach the base of the trail. It is also visited on the white desert tours and can be seen from the sunset viewpoint at Um Mugur.
Wadi Sabet runs between GPS coordinates 29.392326, 35.310129 and 29.332198, 35.464606.
FAST FACTS:
- Primary valley in Wadi Rum white desert leading to trail head of Umm Ad Dami.
- Western end has predominantly red colours similar to Wadi Rum valley to the north.