Gakleen – Soul Journey

Let the desert set the pace

Jordan Wadi Rum Village donation

In Wadi Rum, stillness has a wide horizon. Gakleen – Soul Journey builds its retreat experience around meditation, silence, nature and Bedouin wisdom, inviting guests to listen inward while the desert sets the pace. Rather than a conventional resort itinerary, the camp offers dedicated yoga and meditation spaces, walking trails, shaded sitting areas and open ground for watching the night sky. Overnight stays are in traditional Bedouin tents equipped for comfort, with clean showers and bathrooms, plus a kitchen and dining area for fresh meals with a Bedouin touch. Tannour bread, lentils, grilled vegetables, chicken, fish and herbal tea feature on the menu; vegetarian and gluten-free meals can be requested, alongside other dietary options. The atmosphere suits travelers who want room for quiet, not a packed agenda. It runs by donation, so ask the hosts how contributions and retreat arrangements work before traveling.

Highlights

Open spaces reserved for sitting and stargazing
Traditional Bedouin tents with comfortable overnight facilities
Fresh meals featuring tannour bread, lentils and herbal tea
Walking trails and dedicated yoga and meditation spaces

Good for

meditation beginnersnature loversquiet retreatssolo travelersvegetarian travelers

Setting

The camp sits within Wadi Rum’s expansive desert landscape, where open spaces invite quiet sitting and stargazing. Shaded indoor and outdoor areas offer a place to pause, while nearby walking trails lead through the natural surroundings.

The practice

Meditation is the main practice, set within an approach shaped by silence, nature and Bedouin wisdom. The center describes its aim as creating space for stillness and inner listening. Dedicated meditation areas are available, but the exact format and guidance can vary by retreat, so newcomers should ask the hosts what sessions involve before booking.

A typical day

The daily rhythm is shaped by the retreat rather than a fixed timetable. Guests can spend time in meditation or yoga spaces, walk nearby trails, sit in shaded areas or watch the sky, with meals prepared in a Bedouin style. Ask the hosts for the schedule of a specific retreat.

Accommodation

Guests stay in traditional Bedouin tents equipped for comfortable overnight visits. Clean bathroom and shower facilities are available, along with shaded seating areas and private camping spaces with soft lighting.

What to bring

Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and light, breathable clothing for warmer months. The coolest months are December through February, so pack warm layers for visits then, especially for time spent sitting outdoors.

Address Wadi Rum Rd, Wadi Rum Village, Jordan

How to get there

From Aqaba, drive toward Wadi Rum and the Visitor Center; the team can meet guests there or at the village parking area and guide them into the protected area. Private pickup is offered from Aqaba Airport, Aqaba city or Amman, and shared transport may be arranged depending on travel dates.

Nearest airport: King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) (39 km)

King Hussein International Airport (AQJ), near Aqaba, is approximately 39 km from the center. Private pickup can be arranged from the airport; ask the center about availability for your arrival time.

Nearest city: Aqaba

Languages

English

Pricing

The center runs by donation, with no fixed fee listed. Ask the hosts about expected contributions and what is included in your stay.

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Jun, Jul, Aug

Avoid: Mar, Dec, Jan

Wadi Rum has an annual average temperature of 19.3°C. June through August are the warmest and driest months, while December through February are coolest; January, March and December are among the wettest months.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is there a set daily schedule for retreats?

Daily structure varies by retreat. Ask the hosts for the timetable for your dates.

Can beginners join the meditation practice?

Meditation is the center’s main practice, but session formats can vary. Ask the hosts what guidance is included for newcomers.

What food and dietary options are available?

Meals may include tannour bread, grilled vegetables, lentils, chicken, fish and herbal tea. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available on request, along with vegan, dairy-free, nut-free and other choices.

How do I get to the camp from Aqaba Airport?

King Hussein International Airport is approximately 39 km away. Private pickup can be arranged from Aqaba Airport; drivers also meet guests at the Wadi Rum Visitor Center or nearby village parking area to guide them into the protected area.

How do I reserve a stay?

Contact the center directly to ask about dates and reservations.