Petra, the ancient city carved into the rose-red cliffs of southern Jordan, gives you a different experience every season. Weather really shapes how you explore its long trails, towering tombs, and those hidden corners that seem to pop up everywhere.
The best time to visit Petra is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures stay mild and conditions feel most comfortable for walking and sightseeing.
During these months, you dodge the intense summer heat that can soar above 35°C (95°F) and skip the surprise chill of winter nights. Clear skies and steady daylight make it easier to enjoy the Siq, the Monastery, and other iconic sites without feeling rushed.
Knowing how Petra’s climate shifts throughout the year helps you plan more than just your wardrobe. It shapes when you want to hike, when to snap photos, and even which nights to experience Petra by Night under candlelight.
Understanding Petra’s Climate
Petra sits in southern Jordan at over 1,000 meters above sea level. This gives the ancient city a unique mix of desert dryness and mountain coolness.
You’ll notice big swings between daytime and nighttime temps, plus short rainy spells in winter and long dry stretches for most of the year.
Desert Weather Patterns
Petra lies in an arid zone, so expect clear skies and low humidity most of the time. Rain barely shows up, and summers stay dry with almost no storms.
The desert climate means the sun feels warm during the day, but shade and evenings cool down fast. This catches a lot of first-time visitors off guard.
Petra doesn’t get heavy seasonal rains like coastal regions. Instead, quick showers mostly hit in winter, sometimes with a little frost at night. These bursts of rain usually pass quickly.
Because Petra sits higher than much of Jordan, you avoid the worst desert heat. This makes exploring more comfortable, even in warmer months, though you’ll still need sun protection.
Temperature Extremes and Rainfall
Petra’s temperatures swing a lot between seasons. In January, daytime highs average around 15°C, while nights drop to about 5°C.
In August, daytime highs hit around 33°C, with nights staying near 21°C.
| Month | Avg High (°C) | Avg Low (°C) | Rain (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 15 | 5 | ~24 |
| Apr | 23 | 11 | ~10 |
| Aug | 33 | 21 | ~0 |
| Nov | 20 | 9 | ~10 |
Rainfall stays light, averaging less than 100 mm per year. January, the wettest month, might only see a few rainy days. Summers, especially July, are basically bone-dry.
This low rainfall keeps trails firm and open. Still, sudden winter downpours can cause flash floods in narrow gorges like the Siq, so check the forecast before heading out.
Impact of Weather on Visiting
The climate really shapes your Petra experience. Long sunny days let you explore the carved facades, but midsummer heat can make hikes exhausting.
Cooler months feel better for walking. You can spend hours exploring without overheating, though you’ll want a jacket in the evenings.
Winter brings fewer crowds. You should prepare for chilly mornings and possible rain, so waterproof shoes help if things get muddy.
In summer, you get dry weather and lots of daylight, but you’ll need to pace yourself. Carry water, wear sun protection, and plan shaded breaks to stay safe.
Seasonal Guide: Best Times to Visit
Petra’s desert climate shifts a lot through the year, which affects comfort and safety. Cooler months work best for long hikes, while the hotter months mean you need to plan carefully and start early to avoid the harshest sun.
Spring: Peak Comfort and Scenery
Spring, from March to May, brings the best mix of temperature and daylight. Daytime highs usually land between 18°C and 27°C (64°F to 81°F), making long walks through the Siq and up to the Monastery much more doable.
Nights are cool but not freezing, so you won’t need heavy layers. You might catch desert wildflowers blooming in patches around the cliffs, which really makes the sandstone pop for photos.
Crowds get heavier during spring holidays like Easter. Start early if you want quiet views of the Treasury before the big groups arrive.
Autumn: Ideal for Hikers and Photographers
Autumn, from September to November, is another sweet spot for visiting Petra. Temperatures look a lot like spring, with highs between 18°C and 27°C, but the air feels clearer.
Photographers love this season for the crisp visibility and wide-angle shots of the canyons and tombs. Hikers benefit from cool mornings and steady weather.
Trails like the Al-Khubtha Trail or the climb to the High Place of Sacrifice are much less draining than in summer. You can cover more ground without worrying about the midday heat.
Tour groups show up in October, so hitting popular spots like the Street of Facades before mid-morning helps. Even with more visitors, autumn stays reliable for a Jordan adventure.
Winter: Quiet Exploration and Dramatic Landscapes
Winter, from December to February, is the quietest season in Petra. Daytime temperatures usually sit between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F), which feels chilly but lets you explore without overheating.
You’ll see far fewer visitors, which means more space at landmarks like the Royal Tombs. Winter does bring the risk of rain and even flash floods in the canyons, though.
Some trails might close for safety, so check conditions before you go. Pack warm layers, since evenings can get close to freezing.
Despite the chill, winter light makes the sandstone glow with deep reds and purples. If you want solitude and dramatic scenery, winter’s not a bad call.
Summer: Early Morning Visits and Heat Precautions
Summer, from June to August, means intense heat. Daytime highs often go above 35°C (95°F), and shade is hard to find once you’re out of the Siq.
Walking long distances in the middle of the day can get unsafe, especially on exposed trails. The best move is to enter the site right at opening, around 6 a.m.
You can reach the Treasury and climb to the Monastery before the sun gets brutal. By late morning, it’s smart to rest indoors or head back to Wadi Musa.
Hotels drop their rates in summer, and the trails get way quieter. With good timing, you can still enjoy Petra, but you must carry water, wear sun protection, and avoid hiking during peak heat.
Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown
Petra’s climate changes a lot through the year, with cool winters, hot summers, and two comfortable shoulder seasons. Your experience really depends on how well you plan for temperature swings, daylight, and rain.
January and February: Cool and Tranquil
Winter in southern Jordan brings mild days and chilly nights. January daytime highs average around 55–60°F (13–16°C), while nights can dip near 40°F (4–6°C).
Rain is more likely now than any other time, though totals stay pretty modest. You’ll notice shorter daylight hours, about 6–8 hours of sun daily, which does limit your time to explore.
Winds can get brisk, so warm layers are a must. The big upside? Hardly any crowds.
Trails through the Siq and up to the Monastery feel peaceful, and you can get photos without waiting for people to move. Accommodation prices are at their lowest.
In February, the weather starts to ease up. Days get a bit warmer, and you might spot early wildflowers along the hiking paths. Late winter gives you a nice balance between comfort and quiet.
March to May: Blooming Trails and Mild Days
Spring is the most popular season for Petra. By March, daily highs hit 68°F (20°C), and by May, they climb toward 84°F (29°C).
Nights stay cool, usually in the 50s°F (10–17°C), which makes hiking pleasant. Rain fades quickly in spring, and skies are mostly clear.
You’ll get 9–11 hours of sunshine each day, so there’s plenty of time for exploring the city’s trails and rock-cut temples. Wildflowers show up on the hillsides, adding pops of color to the sandstone.
This is also prime time for photography, with softer light in the mornings and evenings. Crowds peak in April, though, so expect higher prices and busier paths.
Arriving early helps you avoid congestion at the Treasury and other big sites.
June to August: Hot Days and Fewer Crowds
Summer in Petra gets harsh. Average highs range from 92–100°F (33–38°C), and it can get even hotter in exposed spots.
Nights stay warm, often above 68°F (20°C). Rain is basically nonexistent, and the sun feels relentless.
You’ll need to plan carefully. Safe hiking usually happens early, between 5:00–10:00 AM. After that, the heat becomes uncomfortable or even dangerous.
Still, there are perks. Fewer tourists visit, and hotel rates drop. If you can handle the heat, you’ll find solitude at sites that are packed in spring.
Carry a lot of water, wear light but protective clothing, and know where to find shade or indoor breaks during the middle of the day.
September to November: Pleasant Temperatures
Autumn is another peak season for Petra. September starts warm, with highs around 88°F (31°C), but by November, daytime temps drop to 70°F (21°C).
Nights cool off, dipping into the 50s°F (10–14°C). Rain stays low until late November, and skies usually stay clear.
You’ll get 8–10 hours of sunshine daily, which means lots of time for long hikes. This is a comfortable period for exploring trails like the High Place of Sacrifice or the climb to the Monastery.
The air feels dry, and visibility is great for photos. Crowds come back, but not quite as intensely as in April.
Prices rise compared to summer but don’t usually hit spring levels. With moderate weather and everything open, autumn gives you one of the most balanced Petra experiences.
Petra’s Iconic Sites and Weather Considerations
Weather really changes how you experience Petra’s landmarks. Heat, cold, and seasonal light all shape how you see the carved facades, how much ground you can cover, and how comfortable you feel in the narrow passages.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) in Different Seasons
The Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, sits at the end of the Siq and is Petra’s most photographed site. Its sandstone facade changes with the season and time of day.
In spring and autumn, temperatures stay mild, usually between 60–80°F (15–27°C). You can stand in front of the Treasury comfortably, even at midday.
Softer sunlight in these seasons brings out the rose color of the stone. Summer brings extreme heat, often above 95°F (35°C).
The area in front of the Treasury can feel stifling, since the cliffs trap warmth. You’ll definitely want water and shade breaks if you visit during summer.
Winter is cooler, with daytime highs in the 40s–60s°F (5–20°C). The Treasury sometimes looks more muted under cloudy skies, and early mornings can be cold.
Still, with fewer people around in winter, you get more time to take in the details.
The Monastery (Ad-Deir) and Seasonal Hikes
You’ll need to climb about 800 steps to reach the Monastery (Ad-Deir). Weather really changes how tough this hike feels.
Spring brings moderate temperatures and the occasional breeze, making the climb a lot more pleasant. You might want to slow down and actually take in those views.
Autumn offers similar conditions, though the sun sometimes feels pretty strong in the afternoon.
Summer? It’s rough. The heat can hit 95°F (35°C) or more, and those stone steps soak up the sun and radiate it right back at you. If you try it, start early and bring plenty of water.
Winter hikes feel easier temperature-wise, but rain or rare snow can make the steps slippery. On clear days, the air feels crisp and the crowds thin out, so you get sweeping views from the top without the chaos.
Exploring the Siq Throughout the Year
The Siq is that narrow gorge leading into Petra. Its tall sandstone walls give you some natural shade, but things change with the seasons.
In spring and autumn, walking the Siq feels comfortable because of the mild temperatures and not much rain. The light that filters through the rocks in the morning? It’s gorgeous.
Summer heat lingers even in the gorge. The walls block some sun, but the air still gets heavy and hot. Try to walk early if you want to avoid the worst of it.
Winter brings cooler air, sometimes close to freezing in the mornings. Rain isn’t common, but it happens, and puddles might show up along the path. Even with the chill, the Siq feels quieter, so you get more space to really take in the scale of those cliffs.
Special Experiences: Petra by Night and Events
Petra isn’t just about daytime sightseeing. You can experience the place in ways that go beyond the usual, especially after dark or during cultural events that connect you to Jordan’s traditions.
Petra by Night: Weather and Atmosphere
Petra by Night happens three evenings a week, usually on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. You’ll walk through the Siq, now lit by hundreds of candles, until you reach the Treasury—Petra’s most famous monument.
The candlelight makes everything feel calm, a big contrast to the busy daytime hours. The Treasury, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, looks even more striking under that soft glow. Bedouin music sometimes drifts in the background, adding to the mood.
Weather can really change how this experience feels. Spring and autumn bring pleasant evenings. In summer, it stays warm after sunset, so you’ll want to bring water. Winter nights get cold fast, so wear layers and sturdy shoes.
Quick tips for comfort:
- Bring a flashlight so you can see where you’re going.
- Wear layers if it’s chilly.
- Arrive early if you want a good spot near the Treasury.
Festivals and Local Traditions
Petra isn’t just about ancient monuments—it’s also a living part of Jordan’s culture. Several festivals and events happen in and around Wadi Musa, the nearby town, and you’ll find music, food, and traditional crafts.
Local celebrations often include Bedouin hospitality: storytelling, tea, and performances that show off the region’s heritage. These events let you meet people and learn about customs that go back generations.
Festivals usually happen in the cooler months, when it’s more comfortable to gather outside. Autumn evenings are popular for cultural shows and local markets. Summer events tend to be smaller because of the heat, and winter gatherings sometimes move indoors.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Planning your trip to Petra takes a little thought—weather, timing, and what you bring all matter. The right gear, smart entry choices, and a good strategy for crowds make your visit smoother and honestly, a lot more fun.
Packing Suggestions by Season
What you pack should match the season. In spring and autumn, bring light layers, breathable shirts, and a hat for sun. Mornings and evenings get cool, so a light jacket helps.
In summer, heat is your main challenge. Wear loose, light-colored clothes and grab a wide-brimmed hat. A refillable water bottle is a must, since shade is rare. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.
During winter, nights can get really cold, sometimes near freezing. Pack a warm jacket, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Rain can happen, so a waterproof layer is smart. Good-grip shoes matter, since paths can get slippery.
A small daypack works in any season for water, snacks, and extra layers. Try not to overpack, since you’ll walk a lot.
Timing Your Entry for the Best Experience
Arrive early for cooler temps and quieter paths. Gates open at sunrise, letting you walk through the Siq before the sun climbs high. Early light makes the sandstone colors pop.
Late afternoon works too. The heat drops, and the light gets softer across the Treasury and Monastery. If you stick around until closing, you’ll see Petra with fewer visitors.
Midday is rough. The sun is strong, temperatures peak, and the main trails get crowded. Try longer hikes like the Monastery climb in the morning or late afternoon, when things are easier.
Avoiding Crowds and Maximizing Comfort
Petra draws huge crowds, especially during certain times. If you want to dodge the biggest waves of people, try visiting outside the peak summer months.
Weekends usually get busier since more locals show up. Spring and autumn tend to attract more visitors, but if you get there early, you’ll still catch some quieter moments.
Take some of the less-used trails to reach those viewpoints above the Treasury. Or maybe wander off the main route to explore tombs that most people ignore.
These spots usually stay peaceful, even when the main areas feel packed.
Go at your own pace for comfort. Petra’s huge, and you’ll walk a lot.
Bring water, rest in the shade whenever you can, and don’t forget to plan for breaks.
If you hire a licensed local guide, you’ll move around more efficiently and probably discover places most tourists never see.