In short
- Best: March–May and October–November.
- Summer: too hot in Feynan for the long hike.
- Winter: cold, sometimes snowy in Dana; mild in Feynan.
Highlands vs desert
| Season | Dana village (≈ 1,200 m) | Feynan (≈ 300 m) |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | ≈ 15–24 °C | ≈ 25–32 °C |
| Summer | ≈ 28–30 °C | ≈ 38–40 °C |
| Autumn | ≈ 18–26 °C | ≈ 28–34 °C |
| Winter | ≈ 8–12 °C, snow possible | ≈ 18–22 °C |
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Check availabilitySeasonal facilities
Some RSCN campsites and trails operate only part of the year; check before you go.
Spring flowers and migrating birds
From March to May the upper reserve is green and flowering, and migrating raptors pass along the Rift Valley — the best time for walkers and birders.
Month by month for hikers
| Months | Dana–Feynan hike |
|---|---|
| Mar–Apr | Ideal: mild, flowers, birds |
| May | Good; start early, hot at the bottom |
| Jun–Sep | Very hot in the lower canyon — only at dawn and with care |
| Oct–Nov | Ideal: clear skies, comfortable |
| Dec–Feb | Possible on dry days; cold mornings, flash-flood risk after rain |
Snow and storms
Dana village occasionally sees snow, and winter storms can close mountain roads for a day. Check forecasts and road conditions before driving the King's Highway in January and February.
Month by month
| Month | Dana village day max | Feynan day max | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | ≈ 9 °C | ≈ 20 °C | Cold rim, mild lowlands; snow possible |
| Feb | ≈ 11 °C | ≈ 22 °C | Ramadan expected from about 8 Feb 2027 |
| Mar | ≈ 15 °C | ≈ 26 °C | Flowers start; great hiking |
| Apr | ≈ 20 °C | ≈ 31 °C | Peak season; raptor migration |
| May | ≈ 24 °C | ≈ 35 °C | Hike early; Eid al-Adha around 16–17 May 2027 |
| Jun | ≈ 28 °C | ≈ 38 °C | Too hot for the descent |
| Jul | ≈ 30 °C | ≈ 40 °C | Rim walks only |
| Aug | ≈ 30 °C | ≈ 40 °C | Rim walks only |
| Sep | ≈ 27 °C | ≈ 37 °C | Hot at the bottom |
| Oct | ≈ 23 °C | ≈ 32 °C | Good; descent from mid-month |
| Nov | ≈ 16 °C | ≈ 26 °C | Excellent; first rains possible |
| Dec | ≈ 11 °C | ≈ 21 °C | Cold nights on the rim |
Ramadan and holidays
Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin around 8 February, with Eid al-Fitr around 9–10 March; Eid al-Adha is expected around 16–17 May 2027 (moon-sighting dependent). Guesthouses and the lodge continue to serve guests in Ramadan; meal times may shift around sunset. Spring weekends and the Eid holidays are busy with Jordanian walkers and school groups, so book Dana's small guesthouses ahead.
Flash floods
From November to March, heavy rain on the plateau can send floods down Wadi Dana and Wadi Ghuweir. The UK FCDO advises checking forecasts and keeping out of wadis for at least a day after heavy rain. RSCN closes trails when needed; ask at the Dana Guest House before setting out.
Packing by season
- Spring and autumn: layers — the rim can be 10 °C cooler than Feynan — plus sun hat, sunscreen and 3 litres of water for hikes.
- Summer: walk only early on the rim; bring light, long-sleeved clothing.
- Winter: a warm jacket, hat and gloves for the village, waterproof shoes; check guesthouses have heating.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dana open all year?
The reserve and village are, but some campsites and guided trails are seasonal; check with RSCN.
What is the best month to hike from Dana to Feynan?
March, April, late October and November, when the lowlands are warm rather than scorching and the trails are dry. Start early in any season.
Is Dana cold in winter?
Yes — at around 1,200 m and above, nights are close to freezing and snow is possible. Feynan, far below, stays mild.
Is Dana open during Ramadan?
Yes, the reserve and guesthouses stay open; RSCN office hours may be shorter, so book guides in advance.
When do birds migrate through Dana?
Mainly from March to May and from September to November, when raptors and other migrants follow the Rift Valley flyway.
Is Dana busy?
Rarely crowded, though spring weekends bring school groups and walkers.
Sources and official information
Facts were checked against these official sources in November 2026. Opening hours, prices and timetables change, so confirm before you go.
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