Fall in Petra brings a much-needed break from the intense summer heat. Honestly, it’s one of the most comfortable times to explore the ancient city.
You’ll get warm days that cool from around 31°C (87°F) in September to about 20°C (68°F) in November. Evenings dip into the 40s°F, which feels pretty crisp. This mix of mild warmth and cool nights makes Petra way more enjoyable than the extremes you get in summer or winter.
You’ll notice autumn slowly brings rainfall back after months of dryness. September usually stays dry, but in October and November, light showers start to show up, giving the desert a bit of a refresh without really messing up travel plans.
As the days get shorter, you still have plenty of daylight to see Petra’s monuments. The softer autumn sunlight feels just right for exploring.
With fewer crowds than spring and way better temperatures than summer, fall really is a sweet spot for visiting. You can hike comfortably, sightsee for longer, and catch Petra’s sandstone cliffs glowing in the autumn light.
Overview of Fall Weather in Petra
Petra shifts from scorching summer to much more comfortable fall conditions. Warm days stick around, but nights get cooler, and you’ll see some rain late in the season.
Typical Temperature Ranges
In September, daytime temperatures often climb to around 92–93°F (33–34°C). Nights cool to about 73°F (23°C), which can still feel pretty warm, especially if you’re out exploring.
By October, things mellow out. Daytime highs hover around 84°F (29°C), and nights fall to about 67°F (19°C). Walking through Petra’s canyons feels a lot nicer in these cooler evenings.
November brings more change. Average highs drop to 73°F (23°C), and nights dip to 59°F (15°C). You’ll want to bring layers, since mornings and evenings can get chilly compared to the daytime.
This steady cooling makes fall one of the most comfortable times to visit. You skip the brutal summer heat but still get plenty of sun.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rain barely shows up in Petra during September and October. You’ll see 0 inches in September and just 0.1 inches in October. Dry, clear skies are the norm.
By November, the rain returns, but only a little. Average totals stay low at 0.1 inches, and showers usually pop up on just a few days. Heavy storms? Pretty rare. You might catch a quick shower, especially at the end of the month.
The landscape stays arid well into fall since the summer is so dry. Vegetation remains sparse, and dust sometimes hangs in the air. When the first rains arrive, they’re usually light and shouldn’t disrupt your plans.
You should plan for mostly dry, sunny days, but by November, keep an eye out for the start of the rainy season.
Humidity and Atmospheric Conditions
Petra’s fall air feels dry and clear for most of the season. Humidity stays low, especially in September and October, which helps make the heat less intense.
In November, humidity creeps up a bit as rain chances rise. Still, the air rarely feels damp, and you’ll mostly get crisp, dry days.
As fall goes on, daylight hours shrink. September gives you about 12.8 hours of light; by November, it’s down to 10.3 hours. This shift does affect how much sightseeing you can squeeze in.
Winds usually stay calm or moderate, with the occasional breeze that feels great on a warm afternoon. Dry air, long sunny days, and cool nights all add up to a climate that’s easy to plan around in Petra during fall.
Monthly Breakdown: September to November
Fall in Petra means hot, dry days slowly turn into cooler, more comfortable weather. Each month, daytime highs drop, nights get chilly, and rain starts to show up after a long drought.
Weather in September
September kicks off autumn in Petra. Daytime temperatures often hit 86–93°F (30–34°C), while nights cool to 61–68°F (16–20°C). The air stays dry, and rain basically doesn’t happen.
The sun feels strong during the day. UV levels stay high, so sunscreen, hats, and light clothing are a must. Evenings can surprise you with a chill, so toss a light jacket or sweater in your bag.
You get about 12–13 hours of daylight, which is plenty for exploring. Crowds show up this month since the weather’s better than summer, so starting early helps you dodge both the heat and the busiest spots.
Weather in October
October brings milder weather that a lot of travelers love. Highs land between 77–84°F (25–29°C), and lows dip to 55–61°F (13–16°C). The cooler air makes Petra’s trails much easier to handle.
Humidity stays low, and you’ll barely see any rain. Skies are usually clear, with 10–11 hours of daylight. This mix of warmth and cool evenings makes October one of the best months for outdoor adventures.
You’ll want breathable clothes for daytime and warmer layers at night. Good walking shoes are a must—Petra means miles of uneven paths.
Weather in November
By November, Petra cools down a lot. Daytime highs usually sit between 64–72°F (18–22°C), and nights can get as low as 45–50°F (7–10°C). This is when the rainy season tries to start, but showers stay light and rare.
Shorter days—about 10–10.5 hours of daylight—mean you should plan visits for earlier in the day. The cooler weather lets you hike longer without worrying about heat.
Layer up, including a warm jacket for evenings. A light rain jacket or poncho is handy, since sudden showers can happen. Even with the chill, November still feels comfortable for exploring Petra’s wide-open spaces.
Daytime Versus Nighttime Temperatures
Autumn in Petra brings a steady cool-down, from hot September days to much milder weather by November. Daytime highs and nighttime lows are pretty far apart, so you’ll need to prep for warm afternoons and cool evenings.
Daytime Highs in Autumn
Petra’s daytime temperatures start high in September, often hitting 33–34°C (around 92°F). By October, you’ll see averages of 29°C (84°F), and by November, it drops to 23°C (73°F). This makes late autumn way more comfortable for walking around.
The sun stays strong, especially in September, with about 12 hours of daylight. You’ll see mostly sunny skies and hardly any rain, so things stay dry and bright. Even in November, most days are sunny.
The dry desert air means you won’t feel sticky, but you should still carry water and slap on sun protection. If you’re hiking, mornings and late afternoons are your best bet to dodge peak heat.
Nighttime Lows in Autumn
At night, temperatures drop fast once the sun goes down. In September, nights average about 23°C (73°F), which is still warm. By October, it cools to 19°C (67°F), and by November, it’s down to 15°C (59°F). Evenings can feel quite chilly compared to the days.
This big swing from day to night is classic Petra desert. You might wear short sleeves in the afternoon, but you’ll want a light jacket after dark, especially later in the season.
Rain barely shows up—almost none in September, and just a trace in October and November. Clear skies at night help things cool off even faster, so sometimes it feels colder than the numbers say.
If you’re staying overnight or heading out early, bring layers. That way, you can adjust as temps swing from chilly dawns to warm afternoons.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours in Fall
During fall, you’ll notice Petra’s days get shorter and there’s a little less sunshine compared to summer. Still, it’s bright enough for plenty of outdoor exploring.
Average Daily Sunshine
In September, you’ll get about 10 to 11 hours of sunshine per day—not much less than summer, really. By October, that drops to about 9 hours, and in November, you’re looking at 7 to 8 hours on average.
This slow drop means you have lots of sightseeing time early in the season, but shorter days later on might push you to start earlier. September’s skies are usually clear, and even in November, most days stay dry and bright.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- September: ~10–11 hours of sunshine
- October: ~9 hours
- November: ~7–8 hours
Plan your longer hikes for earlier in fall, and start your days earlier as November rolls in.
Seasonal Changes in Daylight
Daylight hours change pretty noticeably through fall. Early September gives you about 12.3 hours of daylight. By October, it’s around 11 hours, and late November drops to 10.6 hours.
So, your available daylight shrinks by almost two hours as fall moves along. The change is gradual, but as winter nears, you’ll want to plan ahead.
For reference:
| Month | Daylight Hours (avg.) |
|---|---|
| September | ~12.3 hours |
| October | ~11 hours |
| November | ~10.6 hours |
Adjust your schedule to make the most of these hours, especially for longer treks through Petra’s trails.
Best Time to Visit Petra in Autumn
Autumn gives you mild temperatures, clear skies, and manageable crowds. It’s honestly one of the best times to check out Petra. You can hike, take photos, and soak up the culture without sweating buckets or shivering.
Ideal Months for Visiting
Mid-September through early November is the prime window for visiting Petra in autumn. Daytime highs usually sit between 20–28°C (68–82°F)—warm but not overwhelming if you’re walking a lot. Nights drop to 10–15°C (50–59°F), so a light jacket comes in handy.
October is often the sweet spot. It’s dry, daylight hours are long, and it’s perfect for exploring the Siq, the Treasury, and the Monastery. Early November stays pleasant, though you’ll notice temps dipping a bit.
Rain is rare early in autumn but picks up a little by late November. Showers don’t last long, but they can make trails slippery, so sturdy shoes are a good idea.
| Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| September | 28°C | 16°C | Warm, fewer crowds |
| October | 25°C | 13°C | Best balance overall |
| November | 20°C | 10°C | Cooler, chance of rain |
Advantages of Fall Travel
Traveling to Petra in autumn means comfortable hiking. The cooler air makes those long climbs, like up to the Monastery or the High Place of Sacrifice, so much easier.
You skip the brutal summer heat that can make midday exploring a struggle.
Crowds are moderate compared to spring, so you get more space at the big landmarks. Photography is a treat, with softer sunlight in the mornings and evenings that really brings out the red sandstone.
Local hotels and guides run at full capacity in autumn, so you’ve got more choices for where to stay and who to tour with. And with longer daylight than winter, you don’t have to rush through the archaeological park.
Travel Tips for Experiencing Petra in Fall
Petra in autumn? The mornings feel cool, afternoons warm up, and daylight doesn’t last as long. You’ll want to prep for those shifting temps and plan your visit with comfort and safety in mind.
What to Pack for Autumn Weather
During fall, Petra’s daytime highs usually hit the mid-70s to low-80s °F (about 24–28°C). Nights can dip to the low 50s °F (10–12°C). You’ll absolutely need layered clothing to handle the swings.
Bring a light jacket or fleece for mornings and evenings. For daytime, go with breathable shirts or long sleeves for sun, plus comfortable pants.
Skip heavy fabrics since you’ll spend hours walking and climbing.
Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Petra’s paths get rocky and steep, and good grip makes a big difference.
You’ll also want these:
- Hat and sunglasses for the sun
- Sunscreen with high SPF, even if it looks cloudy
- Reusable water bottle so you can stay hydrated
- Small backpack to carry snacks and essentials
If you pack for Petra’s autumn weather, you’ll be ready for sunny afternoons and those chilly evenings.
Staying Comfortable During Your Visit
Petra opens early, so if you start at sunrise, you dodge the crowds and the harshest sun. In fall, daylight lasts about 11 hours, but closing times often come earlier than in summer. Always check before you head in.
Plan your walking route with your energy in mind. The main trail from the entrance to the Monastery takes hours round trip. Take breaks, especially if the sun feels intense.
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person. Vendors sell water near the entrance and inside, but prices jump the farther you go. Bringing your own just makes sense.
If you get cold easily, toss a scarf or extra layer in your bag for the evening walk back. The air cools fast once the sun drops behind those cliffs.
Exploring Petra and Other Jordan Destinations in Autumn
Autumn in Jordan brings cooler temperatures, fewer weather extremes, and decent daylight hours. It’s honestly one of the best times to see Petra and maybe explore more of Jordan’s historic spots.
Highlights of Petra in the Fall
Expect daytime highs in Petra to hover around 75–82°F (24–28°C) in early autumn. Evenings cool down to about 50–55°F (10–13°C). Walking the Siq or climbing to the Monastery feels way easier than in the summer heat.
The site opens early, usually by 6:00 am, so you can catch the Treasury before the crowds show up. Autumn sunsets come earlier, so keep daylight in mind when you plan your route.
Layered clothing is the way to go, since mornings start chilly and afternoons heat up fast. You’ll need comfortable walking shoes, because Petra means plenty of time on your feet.
A hat and sunscreen are still smart, since UV rays stay strong even when it’s not hot.
Autumn is peak tourist season here, so expect more visitors. If you book your hotel in Wadi Musa ahead of time, you’ll have an easier trip. Arriving early helps you beat the crowds at the main sights.
Other Places to Visit in Jordan During Autumn
Beyond Petra, autumn in Jordan feels surprisingly pleasant. You’ll find that Wadi Rum cools off, so jeep tours and stargazing suddenly seem a lot more tempting. The dry air and those sharp, clear skies? They really let you soak in the wild sandstone formations.
In Amman, the days stay mild while the evenings get a bit crisp. It’s honestly a great time to wander the Citadel, check out the Roman Theater, or browse downtown markets without sweating through your shirt. You might stumble into a local festival or two, and those really bring out the best of Jordanian food and culture.
The Dead Sea region keeps things warm, and the water feels just right for floating. When the air cools off a bit, it’s easier to enjoy a spa treatment or take a short hike around the area.
If you’re after greener views, Ajloun Forest Reserve and the northern highlands offer milder weather and a gentle breeze. The hiking trails wind through shaded areas and usually aren’t packed with visitors, so it’s a quieter escape compared to Petra.