Visiting Petra at Christmas feels completely different from the scorching summer months. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 10–15°C (50–59°F), and nights can get downright cold, sometimes close to freezing. Rain doesn’t happen often, but it’s possible, and daylight disappears fast, with the sun dipping below the horizon by late afternoon.
These weather patterns shape your entire experience as you wander the ancient city. You’ll likely find fewer crowds, crisp air, and a stillness that lets you really soak in the sandstone carvings without rushing.
With some planning and the right clothes, you can actually enjoy Petra’s trails and monuments in December. It’s all about preparation.
Knowing what the weather actually feels like helps you pack better. Layering your clothes and planning your visit around the short daylight hours can make a big difference in how much you see and how comfortable you feel.
Overview of Petra’s December Climate
December in Petra means cooler days, cold nights, and a small chance of light rain. Shorter daylight hours and a weaker sun change the pace of your day, while desert winds sometimes make it feel even colder than the numbers suggest.
Temperature Ranges and Daily Patterns
During December, Petra’s daytime temperatures usually land between 12°C and 17°C (54°F–63°F). Nights are much colder, dropping to 3°C–6°C (37°F–43°F), and sometimes even lower.
You’ll notice a big difference between day and night. Afternoons feel mild, but mornings and evenings call for warm layers. If you’re heading out to explore the sites, layering is the way to go.
By late December, the air gets even chillier. The stone structures and shaded canyons hold onto the cold, so even when the sun’s out, it might feel colder than you expect.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels
December kicks off the wetter season in Petra, but rain stays pretty limited. Usually, you’ll see 2–4 rainy days in the month, with total rainfall around 15–20 mm (0.6–0.8 inches).
Rain comes in short bursts, not long storms. Heavy downpours don’t happen often, but sudden showers do, so a light waterproof jacket is a good idea. Water can pool in the narrow gorges, making some paths slippery.
Humidity remains low to moderate. The air rarely feels damp, and the dry climate means the ground dries quickly after rain.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
December brings the shortest days of the year to Petra. You get about 10 hours of daylight, with sunrise near 7:20 a.m. and sunset close to 5:40 p.m.
On average, you’ll see 7–8 hours of sunshine per day. Clouds show up more than in summer, but there’s still plenty of clear sky. The sun sits lower, casting softer light that really brings out the colors in the red sandstone cliffs and temples.
UV levels stay moderate, with an index around 3–4. You’ll still want sun protection if you’re out for hours, but the risk of sunburn is lower than in warmer months.
Wind and Atmospheric Conditions
Winds in December usually blow in from the Eastern Desert. These breezes can feel sharp and cold, especially in open spots like the Siq or the plateaus above the city.
Wind speeds tend to be moderate, but gusts can make it feel even colder. A scarf or windproof jacket really helps.
Snow doesn’t happen often, but it’s not impossible. Some winters bring a light dusting, mostly on higher ground, but it usually melts quickly. The air stays crisp and clear, giving you great visibility for exploring.
Typical Weather Conditions Around Christmas
Expect cool days, cold nights, and less daylight in Petra during late December. Rain is possible, but you’ll mostly get dry, chilly air that might make you want to limit your time outside.
Weather at the Start, Middle, and End of December
Early December feels a bit milder, with daytime highs near 15–17°C (59–63°F) and nighttime lows around 5–6°C (41–43°F). By mid-December, it gets colder, and mornings can start closer to 3–4°C (37–39°F).
Around Christmas, the weather hits its coldest point. Daytime highs reach 12–15°C (54–59°F), and nights sometimes drop to 0–2°C (32–36°F). These shifts mean you’ll want to pack layers and a warm jacket for evenings.
Sunlight is limited to about 10 hours per day in December. Mornings and afternoons are the best times to explore Petra’s sites.
Likelihood of Rain, Snow, or Clear Skies
Petra gets light rainfall in December, averaging 16 mm (0.6 in) over just a few days. Showers are brief, and dry stretches last longer.
Snow can happen since Petra sits high up, but it’s rare and melts fast. Most days, you’ll see clear or partly cloudy skies instead of heavy rain.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Rainy days: About 2–4 in December
- Snow: Rare, melts quickly
- Clear to partly cloudy skies: Most of the month
So, pack for cool, dry air but be ready for a surprise shower.
Impact of Weather on Visiting Hours
Cold mornings and evenings might limit your time outside. Most people prefer visiting from late morning to afternoon, when temperatures climb to 12–15°C (54–59°F).
With sunset near 17:30–17:45, plan to enter Petra earlier in the day. Arriving by mid-morning gives you enough time to explore before it gets dark and colder.
If you want to skip the coldest hours, start your visit after 09:30. By then, the sun has warmed things up a bit, making the Siq and open areas much more pleasant.
Packing and Preparation for December Visits
December in Petra brings cool days, cold nights, and the chance for rain or even a light snow. You’ll need to get ready for big temperature swings and weather that can shift fast, from sunny skies to chilly winds.
Essential Clothing and Layering Tips
Daytime highs in December usually reach about 50–59°F (10–15°C), while nights can get close to freezing. You should dress in layers so you can adjust as the temperature changes.
A good setup looks like this:
- Base layer: thermal or moisture-wicking
- Mid-layer: fleece or light sweater
- Outer jacket: insulated and wind-resistant
Rain is possible, so a waterproof jacket or shell makes sense. Since the sun can still warm things up, bring a light shirt or long-sleeve top for hiking.
Footwear and Gear for Exploring Petra
You’ll walk a lot on uneven ground, so sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are a must. Pick shoes with good grip for rocky paths and sandstone steps. Waterproof shoes help if you hit rain or damp ground.
Petra’s archaeological park is huge, so you’ll want to carry:
- A comfortable daypack for water, snacks, and layers
- A map or guidebook since signs are limited
- Reusable water bottles—hydration matters, even in cool weather
If you’re hiking to higher viewpoints, trekking poles help with steep or slippery trails.
Weather-Appropriate Accessories
Cold mornings and evenings mean you’ll want warm accessories. A hat or beanie, gloves, and a scarf protect you from those desert winds that bite harder than you’d think.
There’s still plenty of sunshine, so don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. A keffiyeh (traditional scarf) works for both shade and warmth.
Bring lip balm and moisturizer too, since the dry desert air can leave your skin chapped. These little things really improve your comfort.
How Weather Affects Exploring Petra’s Sites
Cool days and cold evenings change how you move through Petra in December. Less daylight and a chance of rain also affect how much you can see and which routes feel safe.
Accessibility of Main Attractions
The Siq, that narrow gorge leading to the Treasury, stays open all year. In December, the cool air makes walking the 1.2 km passage much easier than in summer. Still, the stone path can get slick after rain, so sturdy shoes with good grip really matter.
You can always reach the Treasury, Petra’s most famous spot. Fewer crowds in late December make it easier to enjoy and photograph without jostling for space.
Other big sites—like the Royal Tombs and the Street of Facades—are actually easier to explore in cooler weather. Shade is limited, but in winter, the sun isn’t harsh, so you can wander without overheating.
Visiting Ad Deir Monastery and Little Petra
Climbing to Ad Deir Monastery means tackling about 800 rock-cut steps. In December, the cooler air makes the climb less exhausting, but the steps can be uneven and damp if it’s rained. Carry water and take your time, since there’s not much shelter along the way.
At the top, the open terrace around Ad Deir offers clear views with softer winter light—great for photos. You’ll probably run into fewer visitors, so you can enjoy the space.
Little Petra, a short drive from the main site, is easier to see in winter. Its smaller scale and shaded canyons feel comfortable in the cool weather, but bring a jacket—the area gets chilly in late afternoon.
Weather Considerations for Hiking Trails
Petra has several hiking trails connecting landmarks like the High Place of Sacrifice and the back route from Little Petra to Ad Deir. December weather makes hiking less tiring, but short daylight means you should start early.
Daytime highs near 17°C (63°F) are perfect for climbing, but lows around 6°C (43°F) feel cold if you’re out late. Layers help you adjust as temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
Rain doesn’t happen often, but if it does, trails with steep stone sections can get slippery. If that’s the case, stick to main paths where footing is safer.
Here’s a quick checklist for trails:
- Footwear: hiking shoes with grip
- Clothing: layered, breathable, warm for evenings
- Timing: start hikes by mid-morning
- Lighting: bring a flashlight if you’ll be out late
Experiencing Petra and Surroundings During Christmas
Visiting Petra at Christmas gives you cool winter weather, lighter crowds, and a peek at local holiday traditions. The site itself feels quieter, and nearby towns and desert landscapes offer their own seasonal touches.
Atmosphere and Festivities in Wadi Musa
Wadi Musa, the town next to Petra, is where most visitors stay. Around Christmas, you might see some decorations in hotels, restaurants, and public spaces. Jordan is mostly Muslim, but Christmas is a public holiday, and both Christian and Muslim residents sometimes join in the celebrations.
Larger hotels often host Christmas Eve dinners, usually buffet-style with both Jordanian and Western dishes. Smaller guesthouses might offer special menus for travelers. Shops stay open, but some close early on Christmas Day.
The streets of Wadi Musa remain pretty quiet compared to big cities. If you like a calm atmosphere after a day at Petra, this town is a comfortable place to unwind. Cool evenings, with temperatures near 5°C (41°F), make warm meals and cozy indoor spaces especially appealing.
Petra by Night and Seasonal Events
Petra by Night invites you to walk by candlelight through the Siq, straight to the Treasury. The event runs on select evenings all year, even during Christmas.
You’ll see more than a thousand candles lighting up the path, and the calm atmosphere feels almost magical. The December air can get chilly, so don’t forget a warm jacket.
Bedouin musicians usually play traditional tunes, and someone might share a story or two. The event isn’t about Christmas, but the timing gives it a special, seasonal vibe.
You have to buy a separate ticket for Petra by Night, and the event kicks off after sunset, usually around 8:30 pm.
Short winter days make this evening walk a great way to spend more time in Petra without rushing through everything while it’s light out. Many travelers say it’s the highlight of their holiday trip.
Nearby Destinations: Wadi Rum and Beyond
If you’re looking to see more than Petra, Wadi Rum really stands out. The desert, about 90 minutes away by car, offers jeep tours, camel rides, and overnight stays in Bedouin-style camps.
Winter nights can get close to freezing, but the clear skies make for some of the best stargazing you’ll find anywhere.
Wadi Rum doesn’t celebrate Christmas with decorations or events, but the peace and quiet of the desert feels special. Some camps cook up a big dinner for guests, often with lamb slow-cooked in a traditional underground oven called a zarb.
You can also check out Little Petra or the Dana Biosphere Reserve in winter. These places stay less crowded, and the cool weather makes hiking much easier than in the heat.
Accommodation and Practical Tips for December
You’ll find plenty of places to stay near Petra, no matter your budget or travel style. Winter brings cooler weather, shorter days, and fewer crowds, so you’ll want to plan around those things—maybe even try some local comfort foods to stay warm.
Places to Stay Near Petra
Most people stay in Wadi Musa, right next to Petra’s main entrance. Many hotels are close enough that you can just walk to the gate, which is a real bonus when daylight is short.
You’ll find everything from simple guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. Family-run inns often feel more personal, while bigger hotels might offer heated rooms, on-site restaurants, and better insulation at night.
If you like more space, some rental apartments in Wadi Musa give you a kitchen and living area. That’s handy if you want to cook or just stay warm inside after dark.
Upscale hotels sometimes have special rates in December, which are hard to get during busy months. Staying near the entrance makes sense since Petra closes earlier in the winter.
Booking and Cost Considerations
December counts as the off-season in Petra, so you’ll usually see lower prices and more rooms available than in spring or autumn. The week of Christmas and New Year can get a bit busier, so book early if you want a specific hotel.
Mid-range hotels often drop their prices this time of year, and luxury places might run deals or packages. If you’re on a budget, you can find hostels and guesthouses at good rates, often with breakfast included.
With less daylight, it’s smart to pick a place you can walk to from the site. That way, you save on transport and can start exploring first thing in the morning.
Make sure your hotel has heating in the rooms. Nights can get really cold, and not every budget spot is well insulated. Double-checking this before you book will make your stay much more comfortable.
Local Cuisine and Warming Foods
Cooler weather really makes warm Jordanian dishes so much more appealing. In Wadi Musa, you can find mansaf (lamb with rice and yogurt sauce) or maqluba (layered rice and vegetables) on most menus.
Locals love lentil soup in winter, and honestly, it’s hard to beat when the wind picks up. Restaurants near the Petra entrance and in the center of town serve both classic meals and lighter snacks.
Many places bring out freshly baked bread and hot tea with mint—perfect for warming up after a long walk. If you’re in a hurry, you’ll spot small eateries selling falafel and shawarma, both tasty and easy on the wallet.
Want to slow things down? Some hotels put together set menus with local stews and grilled meats.
Trying seasonal foods warms you up, sure, but it also lets you experience Jordanian hospitality in a way you just can’t get from a guidebook.
Eating at smaller, family-run restaurants usually means better value and a more personal touch.