✓ Updated January 2026
Weather data and travel information verified current
Best Time to Visit Petra, Jordan: Feb or Mar 2026
Quick Answer:
For a truly unforgettable experience in Petra, aim for the spring months of March to May or the autumn months of September to November. During these periods, the desert air is refreshingly crisp, perfect for exploring the ancient city's monumental facades without the intense heat. Imagine the morning mist gently revealing the Treasury, or the warm glow of autumn sunsets painting the sandstone cliffs in hues of rose and gold. While winter can bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain, it offers a quieter, more intimate encounter with this UNESCO World Heritage site, with fewer crowds to share its grandeur.
Best Months to Visit:
Airport Code
AMM
Coordinates
30.33°, 35.44°
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Top Things to Do
Sunrise Through the Siq
Embark on an early morning trek through the narrow, winding Siq just as the sun begins to paint the sandstone walls in hues of rose and gold. This dramatic natural gorge, leading to the Treasury, offers a sense of awe and anticipation unlike any other, with the silence broken only by your footsteps.
The Monastery's Panoramic Vistas
Hike the 800 steps to Ad-Deir (The Monastery) for a truly rewarding experience, especially in the late afternoon when the crowds thin and the sun casts a warm glow on its monumental facade. Pack plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes; the climb is challenging but the sweeping desert views from the top are unparalleled.
Petra by Night's Candlelit Magic
Witness the Treasury illuminated by thousands of candles during Petra by Night, a truly enchanting spectacle that transforms the ancient city into a mystical wonderland. Arrive early to secure a good spot on the ground and soak in the ethereal atmosphere accompanied by traditional Bedouin music.
Bedouin Tea with a View
Seek out a local Bedouin tent perched on a hillside overlooking the Royal Tombs for an authentic cup of sweet mint tea. Engaging with the friendly Bedouin people and hearing their stories offers a glimpse into the enduring culture of this desert region.
💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.
Essential Travel Tips
Pack layers, even in warmer months! Petra can get surprisingly cool in the early mornings and evenings, especially if you're hiking to viewpoints. Think light t-shirts, a long-sleeved shirt for sun protection, and a fleece or light jacket. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are non-negotiable – you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
The Jordan Pass is your best friend for saving money. If you're staying at least three nights in Jordan, it includes your tourist visa fee and entry to over 40 sites, including Petra (which is a significant portion of the pass cost). Buy it online before you arrive to avoid separate visa and entry fees.
Once inside Petra, resist the urge to take the donkey or camel rides offered by locals. While they might seem convenient, the animals are often overworked, and the prices can be inflated. Walking is the best way to experience Petra's grandeur at your own pace, and you'll discover hidden nooks you might otherwise miss.
Be prepared for persistent vendors. While most are friendly, they can be quite insistent. A polite but firm 'la, shukran' (no, thank you) usually suffices. If you do want to buy souvenirs, haggle respectfully – it's part of the experience, but start at about half their asking price.
Don't miss trying 'Mansaf,' Jordan's national dish, at a local restaurant outside the main tourist path. It's a delicious lamb dish cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce and served with rice. For a quick bite inside Petra, look for the small stands selling freshly squeezed pomegranate or orange juice – it's incredibly refreshing.
Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen religiously. The desert sun is intense, and dehydration can sneak up on you quickly. Carry plenty of water (you can buy more inside, but it's pricier) and reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you're hiking to viewpoints like the Monastery.
💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°C | 4°C | 55°F | 39°F | 10mm | 3 days | 10.5h |
| Feb | 15°C | 5°C | 59°F | 41°F | 10mm | 3 days | 11.3h |
| Mar | 19°C | 8°C | 66°F | 46°F | 10mm | 4 days | 12.2h |
| Apr | 24°C | 11°C | 75°F | 52°F | 5mm | 2 days | 13.1h |
| May | 29°C | 15°C | 84°F | 59°F | 0mm | 0 days | 13.9h |
| Jun | 32°C | 18°C | 90°F | 64°F | 0mm | 0 days | 14.3h |
| Jul | 33°C | 20°C | 91°F | 68°F | 0mm | 0 days | 14.1h |
| Aug | 33°C | 20°C | 91°F | 68°F | 0mm | 0 days | 13.3h |
| Sep | 31°C | 18°C | 88°F | 64°F | 0mm | 0 days | 12.4h |
| Oct | 27°C | 14°C | 81°F | 57°F | 5mm | 2 days | 11.5h |
| Nov | 20°C | 9°C | 68°F | 48°F | 10mm | 3 days | 10.7h |
| Dec | 15°C | 5°C | 59°F | 41°F | 10mm | 3 days | 10.1h |
Petra, Jordan Month by Month: Complete Guide
Planning your trip to Petra, Jordan? Here's what to expect each month:
Jan in Petra, Jordan
Weather
13°C°C / 55°F°F
3 days rainy days • 10mmmm
What to Expect
Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Feb in Petra, Jordan
⭐ Best TimeWeather
15°C°C / 59°F°F
3 days rainy days • 10mmmm
What to Expect
Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Mar in Petra, Jordan
⭐ Best TimeWeather
19°C°C / 66°F°F
4 days rainy days • 10mmmm
What to Expect
Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Apr in Petra, Jordan
⭐ Best TimeWeather
24°C°C / 75°F°F
2 days rainy days • 5mmmm
What to Expect
Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
May in Petra, Jordan
Weather
29°C°C / 84°F°F
0 days rainy days • 0mmmm
What to Expect
Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
Jun in Petra, Jordan
Weather
32°C°C / 90°F°F
0 days rainy days • 0mmmm
What to Expect
Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
Jul in Petra, Jordan
Weather
33°C°C / 91°F°F
0 days rainy days • 0mmmm
What to Expect
Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
Aug in Petra, Jordan
Weather
33°C°C / 91°F°F
0 days rainy days • 0mmmm
What to Expect
Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
Sep in Petra, Jordan
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
0 days rainy days • 0mmmm
What to Expect
Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
Oct in Petra, Jordan
⭐ Best TimeWeather
27°C°C / 81°F°F
2 days rainy days • 5mmmm
What to Expect
Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
Nov in Petra, Jordan
⭐ Best TimeWeather
20°C°C / 68°F°F
3 days rainy days • 10mmmm
What to Expect
Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Dec in Petra, Jordan
⭐ Best TimeWeather
15°C°C / 59°F°F
3 days rainy days • 10mmmm
What to Expect
Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
All Things to Do in Petra, Jordan
Sunrise Through the Siq
natureEmbark on an early morning trek through the narrow, winding Siq just as the sun begins to paint the sandstone walls in hues of rose and gold. This dramatic natural gorge, leading to the Treasury, offers a sense of awe and anticipation unlike any other, with the silence broken only by your footsteps.
Best time: Mar-May, Sep-Nov
The Monastery's Panoramic Vistas
activityHike the 800 steps to Ad-Deir (The Monastery) for a truly rewarding experience, especially in the late afternoon when the crowds thin and the sun casts a warm glow on its monumental facade. Pack plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes; the climb is challenging but the sweeping desert views from the top are unparalleled.
Best time: Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Petra by Night's Candlelit Magic
culturalWitness the Treasury illuminated by thousands of candles during Petra by Night, a truly enchanting spectacle that transforms the ancient city into a mystical wonderland. Arrive early to secure a good spot on the ground and soak in the ethereal atmosphere accompanied by traditional Bedouin music.
Best time: Mon, Wed, Thu evenings (check schedule)
Bedouin Tea with a View
foodSeek out a local Bedouin tent perched on a hillside overlooking the Royal Tombs for an authentic cup of sweet mint tea. Engaging with the friendly Bedouin people and hearing their stories offers a glimpse into the enduring culture of this desert region.
Best time: Year-round
Exploring the High Place of Sacrifice
attractionVenture off the main path to discover the High Place of Sacrifice, an ancient Nabataean ritual site offering breathtaking panoramic views of Petra's vast landscape. The journey involves a moderate hike, but the sense of discovery and the intricate carvings at the summit make it incredibly worthwhile.
Little Petra's Frescoed Rooms
attractionEscape the main crowds with a visit to Siq al-Barid, known as Little Petra, where you can explore smaller, more intimate Nabataean dwellings, including one with remarkably preserved frescoes. This site offers a quieter, more personal encounter with Nabataean artistry and architecture.
Best time: Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Wadi Musa's Local Souvenirs
shoppingWander through the bustling streets of Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to Petra, to find unique handcrafted souvenirs like intricate sand bottles, woven Bedouin rugs, and silver jewelry. Bargain respectfully with local artisans to find treasures that tell a story of Jordanian craftsmanship.
Stargazing in the Desert
natureAfter a day of exploration, find a quiet spot away from the town lights and marvel at the incredibly clear desert sky. The Milky Way is often vividly visible, offering a profound connection to the vastness of the universe, a truly humbling experience.
Best time: Year-round (clear nights)
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Getting Around Petra, Jordan
Private Taxi from Amman/Aqaba
Hiring a private taxi is the most direct and comfortable way to reach Petra from major cities like Amman or Aqaba. It allows you to set your own schedule and stop along the way if desired.
JETT Bus
The Jordan Express Tourist Transport (JETT) bus is a reliable and affordable option for reaching Petra from Amman and Aqaba. It's a comfortable coach service designed for tourists.
Local Minibus (Service Taxi)
For a more local and budget-friendly experience, consider the local minibuses (often called 'service taxis') that run between cities. They are less comfortable and have fixed routes and schedules.
Rental Car
Renting a car gives you the ultimate freedom to explore Petra and its surroundings at your own pace. Roads are generally well-maintained, especially major highways.
Horse Carriage (within Petra)
Once inside the Petra archaeological park, horse-drawn carriages are available to take you from the Visitor Centre through the Siq to the Treasury. It's a quicker and more comfortable way to cover the initial distance.
Donkey or Camel Ride (within Petra)
For a more traditional experience within Petra, you can hire donkeys or camels to navigate the steeper or longer paths, particularly up to the Monastery. This is a popular way to cover ground.
💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the absolute best time to visit Petra to avoid the crowds and the heat?
Honestly, aim for the shoulder seasons: March to May or September to November. You'll get pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring, and while it's still popular, it's far less intense than the summer peak. I'd personally lean towards late October or early November – the desert air is crisp, and the light on the Treasury is just magical.
Beyond the Treasury and Monastery, what's a must-see spot that most tourists miss?
You absolutely have to hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice. It's a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views over the entire Petra basin are breathtaking, and you get a real sense of the scale of this ancient city. Plus, you'll often find yourself with fewer people up there, allowing for a more contemplative experience.
What's the deal with the Bedouins in Petra? Should I accept their offers for rides or souvenirs?
The local Bedouins are an integral part of Petra's story, and many offer donkey, horse, or camel rides. It's a personal choice, but if you do engage, agree on the price *before* you start your journey to avoid any misunderstandings. A small purchase from their stalls is also a great way to support the community directly.
How much time do I *really* need to see Petra properly?
Most people rush through in a single day, but I strongly recommend at least two full days. This allows you to explore the main sites without feeling frantic, venture off the beaten path to places like the High Place of Sacrifice, and even catch Petra by Night if your schedule allows. Trust me, you'll want the extra time to soak it all in.
What's the best way to navigate Petra, and are there any 'insider' routes?
The main path through the Siq to the Treasury is unavoidable, but once you're in, don't be afraid to explore the side trails. The path to the Monastery (Ad-Deir) is a significant climb, but there's also a less-trafficked route that starts from the back of the site if you're feeling adventurous and have a guide. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable, no matter which path you choose!
Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of when visiting Petra?
Jordanians are incredibly hospitable, but it's always respectful to dress modestly, especially outside the main tourist hub. Covering your shoulders and knees is a good practice. When interacting with locals, a friendly 'Salam alaikum' (peace be upon you) goes a long way, and always ask permission before taking photos of people.
How many days do you need in Petra, Jordan?
We recommend spending 3-5 days in Petra, Jordan to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.
Is Petra, Jordan expensive to visit?
Petra, Jordan can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Feb and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.
What is Petra, Jordan famous for?
Petra, Jordan is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Feb or Mar for the best experience.
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