If you've ever watched a Mars movie, chances are that it was filmed in Wadi Rum. Say hello to the Valley of the Moon and home to the Bedouin tribes!
For an authentic experience, camp overnight in Wadi Rum with the Bedouin tribes. This is just as crazy as it sounds, but suprisingly easy to execute — check out TripAdvisor for camp recommendations and easy booking. There are a range of camp types, from tourist-y ones that are usually crowded and play pop music at night to entirely authentic, traditional ones. We'd recommend something in the middle (authentic, but with functioning bathrooms), but pick based on reviews and what you're up for.
Once you're in Wadi Rum, your Bedouin camp liasion will most likely offer to give you some sort of tour. Jeep tours are an efficient way to see the desert in all of its glory and you'll get to stop at key locations to climb the mountains, which are surprisingly easy to scramble up. Camel rides are also an options If you do stay in a camp, also eat meals with the Bedouins! They cook in giant earthern underground pots, and the meals are out of this world amazing. Bedouin tradition is also to drink a lot of sweet black tea -- it's delicious, and they'll drink cup after cup. You will probably be offered tea by every person you meet, so drink as much as you're up for. It's yummy!
Be mindful of what you wear. It is a desert, so it'll be hot during the day but can get very cold at night as well. If you're travelling for IAP, realize that it'll be cold even during the day if you're outside for an extended period of time hiking. Wear comfy shoes that you can hike in. Whatever you wear, the red sands of the desert will be embedded in your clothing for a few wash cycles, so plan accordingly!
Must sees: a desert sunrise, stars at night, the rock bridges!