In short
- Best months: March–May and late September–November.
- Summer days in the valley often pass 30 °C; start at 6 AM and rest at midday.
- December–February is quiet but cold, with rain and occasional snow — and flash-flood risk in the Siq after heavy rain.
Petra weather month by month
| Month | Typical day max | Night min | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | ≈ 12 °C | ≈ 2 °C | Coldest; rain and occasional snow |
| Feb | ≈ 14 °C | ≈ 3 °C | Cold mornings, some rain |
| Mar | ≈ 18 °C | ≈ 6 °C | Wildflowers; busy from late March |
| Apr | ≈ 23 °C | ≈ 9 °C | Excellent; peak season |
| May | ≈ 27 °C | ≈ 13 °C | Warm; very good |
| Jun | ≈ 31 °C | ≈ 16 °C | Hot middays |
| Jul | ≈ 32 °C | ≈ 18 °C | Hottest; start at 6 AM |
| Aug | ≈ 32 °C | ≈ 18 °C | Hot; fewer groups |
| Sep | ≈ 30 °C | ≈ 16 °C | Cooling from mid-month |
| Oct | ≈ 25 °C | ≈ 12 °C | Excellent; peak season |
| Nov | ≈ 19 °C | ≈ 7 °C | Mild days, first rains |
| Dec | ≈ 14 °C | ≈ 4 °C | Cold; quiet |
Book tours in PetraLive times, prices and free cancellation terms on GetYourGuide.
Check availabilityCrowds and the best time of day
Coach groups usually arrive between about 9 and 11 AM. The first two hours after the 6 AM opening and the last two before closing are the calmest. Fridays and Jordanian public holidays bring more domestic visitors; during Ramadan opening times inside the park stay similar but restaurants in town may open only after sunset (see events and holidays).
Winter, rain and flash floods
From November to March heavy rain can cause flash floods in narrow wadis, including the Siq, which the authorities close when needed — the Nabataeans built the dam at its entrance for exactly this reason. The FCDO also notes that heavy snow can block mountain roads around Petra. Follow local instructions and keep a flexible day in your plan.
When to see Petra by Night
Petra by Night runs from Sunday to Thursday, 8:30–10:30 PM local time, all year (JD 30, children under 10 free, per petrabynight.jo as of November 2026). In winter bring a warm layer — the Siq is cold after dark.
What to pack by season
- Spring/autumn: layers, hat, sunscreen, 2–3 litres of water a day.
- Summer: light long-sleeved clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, electrolytes, 3–4 litres of water.
- Winter: warm jacket, hat and gloves for early mornings, waterproof shoes.
Best months at a glance
| Period | Heat | Crowds | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| March–May | Mild to warm | Highest | Best weather; book early |
| June–August | Hot middays (often 30 °C+) | Lower among Western visitors | Fine with 6 AM starts |
| September–November | Warm, then mild | High in October | Excellent; clear light |
| December–February | Cold mornings, rain or snow possible | Lowest | Quiet; check for closures |
Ramadan and Eid in 2027
Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin around 8 February and end with Eid al-Fitr around 9–10 March; Eid al-Adha is expected around 16–17 May 2027. Exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon and are announced shortly beforehand. Petra stays open during Ramadan, and daytime visits are quieter; in town, some restaurants open only after sunset, while hotels keep serving guests. The Eid holidays bring many Jordanian and regional visitors to Petra and Wadi Rum, so book rooms early for those dates. See events and public holidays for the full calendar.
Light and photography by season
The Treasury faces east and sits deep in the gorge, so direct sun reaches its facade for only a short period in the morning; outside that window it glows in reflected light, which many photographers prefer. The Monastery is best in the afternoon, when the sun is on its facade. In winter the low sun and clear air give the strongest colours in the sandstone; in summer the midday light is flat and harsh, so plan photography for early and late in the day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the worst month to visit Petra?
July and August are very hot at midday, and January can be cold and wet. Both still work with early starts and the right clothes.
Does it snow in Petra?
Occasionally, on a few winter days in some years — mostly in Wadi Musa and on the high plateau.
Is Petra open every day?
Yes, the archaeological park opens daily from 6 AM local time, including Fridays and holidays, although parts can close after heavy rain. Winter closing times are earlier than summer ones.
Is Petra crowded in Ramadan?
Daytime visits are usually quieter during Ramadan; the Eid holiday that follows is one of the busiest periods for domestic visitors.
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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