Winter in Petra, Jordan, feels worlds apart from the dry, scorching summers most people expect. Daytime highs usually hover around 13–15°C (55–59°F), while nights often dip close to 2–4°C (35–39°F).
This cooler season brings a mix of mild days and chilly evenings. You get a comfortable window to explore the ancient city without battling the desert heat.
Rain gets a bit more frequent in these months. January and February see the highest chance of showers.
Total rainfall still stays pretty modest compared to wetter regions, but it adds a refreshing contrast to Petra’s sandstone views. Sometimes, you might even spot a light frost at night, so it’s smart to pack layers and warmer clothes.
Visiting in winter means shorter daylight hours, usually about 10 to 11 per day. Still, you’ll have enough time to stroll the Siq or climb up to the Monastery.
The softer light and cool air make the city feel calm and welcoming. If you like a slower pace, winter’s atmosphere is perfect for exploring.
Overview of Petra’s Winter Climate
Winter in Petra brings cooler temperatures, some rain, and shorter days compared to the long, dry summers.
You’ll experience mild days and cold nights, with fewer hours of sunshine shaping how you plan your time outdoors.
Typical Winter Temperature Range
From December through February, Petra’s days stay mild, but the nights drop sharply. Daytime highs usually sit at 13–15°C (55–59°F), and nighttime lows often reach 2–4°C (35–39°F).
Chilly evenings are the norm, and frost sometimes creeps in across the desert terrain. Snow almost never falls in Petra itself, though higher elevations nearby might get a dusting.
The big swing between day and night temperatures means you’ll want to dress in layers. A light jacket works for daytime hikes, but after sunset you’ll definitely need something warmer.
Honestly, the cooler climate makes winter one of the best times for walking Petra’s long paths and steep trails.
Precipitation Patterns in Winter
Winter is really the only time when measurable rainfall hits Petra. January and February are the wettest, each averaging 17 mm (0.67 in) of rain. December is close behind with about 16 mm (0.63 in).
Rain falls on just a handful of days each month, usually 3 to 5 days, so you probably won’t hit long wet stretches. Short showers can make the sandstone paths slippery, so sturdy shoes are a must.
Unlike the bone-dry summer, winter’s moisture keeps the region’s sparse vegetation alive. Heavy storms almost never happen, but flash floods can pop up in nearby wadis—worth checking local conditions before heading into narrow canyons.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
Winter days in Petra are noticeably shorter. In December, you get about 10.2 hours of daylight per day, rising to around 11.1 hours by February.
Sunshine hours also shrink, with just 7 hours of sun on average in January and December, compared to more than 13 hours in summer. You’ll want to start sightseeing earlier to make the most of the daylight.
The lower sun angle means less warmth, so shaded spots can feel pretty cold, even in the afternoon. A hat and gloves can make a big difference, especially if you’re hanging out in exposed or windy areas.
Monthly Breakdown of Winter Weather
Winter in Petra brings cool days, chilly nights, and not much rain. You’ll notice mild daytime temps, colder evenings, and mostly dry weather, with just a bit of light rain scattered across the season.
December Weather Details
December kicks off winter in Petra. Daytime highs usually reach about 65°F (18°C), while nights drop to around 52°F (11°C).
The jump between day and night can feel pretty sharp, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
Rain is rare, only about 0.2 inches on average. Snow almost never happens, but frosty nights do pop up. Sunshine dominates, with around 24 clear days in December.
Day length averages just over 10 hours. That’s enough daylight for sightseeing, but evenings are definitely shorter. The dry air and bright skies make December a solid month for exploring Petra’s outdoor sites, especially with fewer crowds.
January Weather Details
January is usually the coldest month in Petra. Average daytime highs stick near 61°F (16°C), and nights drop to about 48°F (9°C).
A jacket is a must, especially after sunset or early in the morning.
Rainfall stays minimal, averaging 0.3 inches for the month. Most days are dry and clear, with about 23 sunny days. Outdoor activities are still very doable.
Daylight inches up a bit compared to December, ranging from 10.2 to 10.7 hours per day. The sun warms things up at midday, but evenings cool off fast, and frost is possible in shady spots.
February Weather Details
February signals the tail end of winter in Petra. Daytime highs rise to about 64°F (18°C), and nights hover around 50°F (10°C).
The weather feels a bit more comfortable than January, though nights still get chilly.
Rain picks up slightly, with about 0.4 inches and around 1 rainy day during the month. Still, most days are dry and sunny, with 21 clear days on average.
Day length grows from 10.8 to 11.5 hours, giving you more time to explore. With mild days, little rain, and longer daylight, February is one of the nicer winter months for hitting Petra’s trails and monuments.
Temperature Variations: Day vs Night
Winter in Petra brings mild afternoons and much cooler nights, with sharp swings between the two. Daytime is usually comfortable for sightseeing, but after sunset, you’ll want warmer clothes.
Daytime Highs and Lows
During winter, Petra’s daytime highs usually land between 9°C and 16°C (48°F–61°F). Walking through the site feels pleasant, especially on clear days.
The sun gives steady warmth, and you can often go without heavy layers in the afternoon.
Daylight is shorter, averaging 9 to 10 hours, so the warmth fades quickly. By late afternoon, the air cools down fast.
If you’re planning a full day out, bring a light jacket even if midday feels warm.
Rainfall stays limited, with January being the wettest but still less than 25 mm. Most days are dry, so wet weather rarely messes with your plans.
The main thing to watch is the cooler air after midday, not heavy rain.
Nighttime Cold and Frost Risks
Nighttime in Petra feels totally different from the day. Temperatures often drop to 2°C–5°C (36°F–41°F), with occasional dips near freezing.
Frost can show up, especially in open valleys and higher areas.
The stone structures and desert terrain lose heat quickly after sunset. This makes evenings feel colder than the thermometer says.
If you’re staying overnight, you’ll need insulated clothing, warm blankets, or heated lodging.
Humidity creeps up in winter, reaching around 60–65% in December, which can make the cold feel sharper. Even without snow, the chill is real.
Early mornings are usually the coldest, so it’s better to plan outdoor activities after the sun comes up.
Rainfall and Snowfall During Winter
Winter in Petra brings cooler weather along with the area’s most noticeable precipitation. Rainfall is modest, and while snow is rare, it’s not impossible.
Rain Frequency and Amounts
Most of Petra’s annual rain falls between December and February. On average, the city gets about 100–110 mm of precipitation per year, with winter providing most of it.
Rain usually arrives as quick, scattered showers, not long storms. These can make footpaths slippery, especially on the ancient stone steps and trails.
Rainy days are few, often just a handful per month. For example, December might bring 16 mm of rain over three days.
January and February are similar, though totals change from year to year.
Humidity stays moderate, and the air dries fast after rain. The rocky, sandy ground drains water quickly, so puddles don’t stick around.
Likelihood of Snow and Hail
Snow in Petra doesn’t happen often, but it’s possible on the coldest winter nights. The city sits at about 800–1,350 meters above sea level, so light snowfall is more likely here than in lower parts of Jordan.
When snow does fall, it’s usually less than 1 cm per year, and it melts quickly in the sun. You shouldn’t expect heavy snow or lasting cover.
Hail can show up during strong winter showers, but it’s rare and brief.
Since snow and hail are unusual, they’re more of a novelty than a real travel concern. Still, warm clothes are smart for chilly evenings, as temperatures can drop close to freezing.
Other Winter Weather Factors
Winter in Petra brings more than just cooler temps and some rain. Wind, humidity, and UV exposure all play a role in how comfortable and safe your visit feels.
Wind and Humidity Levels
Winds in Petra during winter usually stay light to moderate, but the open desert can make them feel stronger. Gusts stand out more in exposed spots like the Siq and the higher viewpoints.
Even gentle wind can make the chill worse, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Humidity levels stay pretty low, averaging 40–60%. The air feels dry compared to the coast.
Dryness helps you avoid damp cold, but it can cause dry skin, chapped lips, and even mild dehydration if you’re not careful.
It helps to pack lip balm, moisturizer, and water. You might not feel thirsty in cool weather, but dry air means you lose water faster through breathing and your skin.
When wind and dryness combine, the air can feel colder than the actual temperature. Layering up is still your best bet.
UV Index and Sun Safety
Even in winter, Petra gets a fair amount of sun. The UV index usually sits between 3 and 5, which is moderate but still strong enough to burn you if you’re out for a while.
Clear skies and those reflective sandstone cliffs boost your risk of sunburn.
You should use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, especially around midday. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses help with both UV rays and glare off the rocks.
Daylight hours are shorter, about 10–11 hours, and the sun sits lower in the sky, making shadows longer. That doesn’t really cut UV exposure, though.
Taking breaks in the shade and reapplying sunscreen after a few hours will help keep your skin safe.
Practical Tips for Visiting Petra in Winter
Winter in Petra means cooler weather, shorter days, and fewer crowds. You’ll face cold mornings, possible rain, and limited daylight, but with a bit of planning, you can explore comfortably and make the most of your trip.
What to Wear and Pack
Petra sits over 1,000 meters above sea level, so winter days feel crisp, and nights can drop near freezing. Bring layered clothing so you can adjust as temperatures swing from sunny afternoons to cold evenings.
Pack a warm jacket, a rainproof outer layer, and thermal underlayers for mornings. A hat, gloves, and scarf help with the desert wind.
Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must since the trails are rocky and uneven. Waterproof shoes are a good idea if rain is in the forecast.
You’ll want sunglasses and sunscreen too. Even in winter, the sun bounces off those sandstone cliffs. A small backpack makes it easy to carry water, snacks, and extra layers as you explore.
Planning Your Visit Around Weather
Winter days in Petra feel shorter, with opening hours usually running from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm. You’ll want to get an early start if you hope to catch the main sites before sunset sneaks up on you.
Daytime temperatures hover between 10°C and 18°C (50°F to 64°F). But honestly, mornings and evenings can feel much colder than you might expect.
Rain can show up, although it tends to only make an appearance a few days out of the month. If you get a clear day, that’s your cue for hiking—the cooler air makes those long walks way more enjoyable than in the summer heat.
Bring a map or download one before you go, since the signage inside the archaeological park doesn’t really help much.
Photographers will love winter here, thanks to the clear skies and crisp light. Try to hit famous spots like the Treasury or Monastery when the sun sits higher in the sky, so you don’t end up with those deep, stubborn shadows.
Winter Travel Considerations
Not many tourists head to Petra in winter, so you’ll usually spot lower hotel prices in Wadi Musa. The trails feel emptier too, which is honestly a relief if you like a bit of peace.
Just keep in mind, some services cut back their hours during this season. Evening events or tours? They might skip a few nights when it’s cold. Always double-check what’s running before you count on it.
Rain can make the roads into Petra pretty slippery, especially where the sun doesn’t hit. Give yourself more time to get there, and honestly, it’s probably best not to drive after dark.
After trekking around in the chill, you can duck into a local hammam (traditional bathhouse) in Wadi Musa. It’s a cozy way to thaw out and rest your legs after a long day.
Bring some cash in small bills for the markets, since a lot of vendors don’t take cards. Bargaining’s part of the fun, but it’s good to keep things friendly when you’re haggling for scarves, rugs, or handmade jewelry.