Best Time to Visit Petra: A Month-by-Month Weather Guide (2026)
Planning a family trip to the magnificent ancient city of Petra? Choosing the right time to visit can significantly impact your experience. This month-by-month guide for 2026 breaks down the weather, crowds, prices, and events to help you determine the best time for your family adventure in Jordan.
Petra Weather and Crowd Overview
Petra experiences a desert climate, meaning hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night. Crowd levels are highest during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is most pleasant. Consider your family's tolerance for heat, rain, and crowds when making your decision.
Spring (March - May)
Spring offers some of the most pleasant weather in Petra, making it a popular time to visit.
March
- Average Temperature: High 64°F (18°C), Low 45°F (7°C)
- Rainfall: Moderate (approx. 2 inches)
- Crowd Levels: 4/5
- Hotel Price Trends: High (expect to pay $150-$300+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: None significant
- Verdict: Good time to visit, but expect crowds and higher prices. Pack layers for temperature changes.
April
- Average Temperature: High 73°F (23°C), Low 52°F (11°C)
- Rainfall: Low (approx. 1 inch)
- Crowd Levels: 5/5 (Peak season)
- Hotel Price Trends: Highest (expect to pay $200-$400+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Easter (variable date)
- Verdict: Beautiful weather, but very crowded and expensive. Book accommodations and tours well in advance. Consider visiting Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) for a less crowded experience.
May
- Average Temperature: High 82°F (28°C), Low 59°F (15°C)
- Rainfall: Very Low (less than 0.5 inches)
- Crowd Levels: 4/5
- Hotel Price Trends: High (expect to pay $150-$350+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Petra Desert Marathon (late May/early June - check dates for 2026)
- Verdict: Warm and sunny, with slightly fewer crowds than April. Still a good time to visit, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially during midday.
Summer (June - August)
Summer in Petra is characterized by scorching heat and minimal rainfall. It's the off-season, so you'll find fewer crowds and lower prices, but the heat can be intense.
June
- Average Temperature: High 91°F (33°C), Low 66°F (19°C)
- Rainfall: None
- Crowd Levels: 2/5
- Hotel Price Trends: Moderate (expect to pay $100-$250+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Eid al-Adha (variable date)
- Verdict: Very hot, but fewer crowds and lower prices. Explore Petra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Stay hydrated!
July
- Average Temperature: High 95°F (35°C), Low 68°F (20°C)
- Rainfall: None
- Crowd Levels: 1/5
- Hotel Price Trends: Lowest (expect to pay $80-$200+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Islamic New Year (variable date)
- Verdict: Hottest month of the year. Only recommended for those who can tolerate extreme heat. Take advantage of early morning and evening hours.
August
- Average Temperature: High 95°F (35°C), Low 68°F (20°C)
- Rainfall: None
- Crowd Levels: 1/5
- Hotel Price Trends: Low (expect to pay $80-$200+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: None significant
- Verdict: Similar to July – very hot with minimal crowds. Consider staying in a hotel with a pool to cool off.
Autumn (September - November)
Autumn is another excellent time to visit Petra, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than spring.
September
- Average Temperature: High 86°F (30°C), Low 63°F (17°C)
- Rainfall: Very Low (less than 0.5 inches)
- Crowd Levels: 3/5
- Hotel Price Trends: Moderate (expect to pay $120-$280+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet's Birthday - variable date)
- Verdict: Temperatures start to cool down, making it a more comfortable time to explore. Crowds are moderate.
October
- Average Temperature: High 77°F (25°C), Low 54°F (12°C)
- Rainfall: Low (approx. 0.75 inches)
- Crowd Levels: 4/5
- Hotel Price Trends: High (expect to pay $150-$320+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Amman Design Week (check dates for 2026, some events may be held near Petra)
- Verdict: Excellent weather for hiking and exploring. Crowds are picking up again, so book in advance.
November
- Average Temperature: High 68°F (20°C), Low 46°F (8°C)
- Rainfall: Moderate (approx. 1.5 inches)
- Crowd Levels: 3/5
- Hotel Price Trends: Moderate (expect to pay $120-$280+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Independence Day (November 25th) - may see some local celebrations
- Verdict: Cooler temperatures and a chance of rain. Fewer crowds than October. A good time for budget-conscious travelers.
Winter (December - February)
Winter in Petra is the off-season, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. While not ideal for sunbathing, it offers a unique and less crowded experience.
December
- Average Temperature: High 59°F (15°C), Low 41°F (5°C)
- Rainfall: High (approx. 3 inches)
- Crowd Levels: 2/5
- Hotel Price Trends: Moderate (expect to pay $100-$250+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Christmas (December 25th) - some hotels may offer special meals
- Verdict: Cold and wet, but fewer crowds. Pack warm, waterproof clothing. Check for potential flash flood warnings before hiking in the Siq.
January
- Average Temperature: High 54°F (12°C), Low 39°F (4°C)
- Rainfall: High (approx. 3.5 inches)
- Crowd Levels: 1/5
- Hotel Price Trends: Lowest (expect to pay $80-$200+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: None significant
- Verdict: Coldest and wettest month of the year. Only recommended for travelers who don't mind the weather and are looking for the lowest prices and fewest crowds.
February
- Average Temperature: High 57°F (14°C), Low 41°F (5°C)
- Rainfall: Moderate (approx. 2.5 inches)
- Crowd Levels: 2/5
- Hotel Price Trends: Low (expect to pay $90-$220+ per night)
- Major Events/Festivals: Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival (check dates for 2026, some events may be held near Petra)
- Verdict: Slightly warmer and drier than January, but still cold and potentially wet. A good option for budget travelers who want to avoid crowds.
Best Time to Visit Petra for Budget Travelers
The best time to visit Petra on a budget is during the summer months (June-August) or the winter months (December-February). During these periods, hotel prices are at their lowest, and you'll find fewer crowds, allowing you to negotiate better deals on tours and transportation. Be prepared for extreme heat in the summer or cold and rain in the winter.
Best Time to Visit Petra for Families
For families, the shoulder seasons of April/May or September/October offer the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds. April and October can be busy, so book accommodations and tours in advance. May and September are slightly less crowded and offer warmer temperatures, making them ideal for families with young children. Avoid the extreme heat of summer and the cold of winter.
Best Time to Avoid Crowds in Petra
If avoiding crowds is your priority, visit Petra during the summer months (June-August). While the heat can be intense, you'll have the site practically to yourself. Alternatively, consider visiting in the winter months (December-February), but be prepared for cold temperatures and rain. Arriving early in the morning, regardless of the time of year, can also help you beat the crowds.
Shoulder Season Sweet Spots
The shoulder seasons (April/May and September/October) offer the best compromise between good weather and manageable crowds. These months provide pleasant temperatures for exploring the site without the extreme heat of summer or the cold of winter. While these months are more popular than the off-season, booking accommodations and tours in advance can help you avoid the worst of the crowds.
Specifically, the last two weeks of September and the first two weeks of May often provide the best value. Temperatures are still comfortable, and many families have returned home from school holidays. This is when you can often find a sweet spot for both weather and price.
What to Pack for Petra, Season by Season
Your packing list will vary depending on the time of year you visit Petra:
Spring (March-May)
- Light layers (t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, fleece jacket)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Rain jacket (especially in March)
- Reusable water bottle
Summer (June-August)
- Light, breathable clothing (linen, cotton)
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!)
- Electrolyte tablets or powder
Autumn (September-November)
- Light layers (t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweater)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Light jacket or coat
- Umbrella or rain jacket (especially in November)
- Reusable water bottle
Winter (December-February)
- Warm, waterproof clothing (winter coat, gloves, hat, scarf)
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Thermal underwear
- Umbrella or rain jacket
- Reusable water bottle
Final Thoughts
No matter when you choose to visit Petra, you're sure to be amazed by its beauty and history. By considering the weather, crowds, and prices, you can plan the perfect family trip to this unforgettable destination. Always check the official Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority website (www.visitpetra.jo) for the most up-to-date information on events and park conditions.
Visiting Wadi Musa
Most visitors to Petra stay in the nearby town of Wadi Musa. Wadi Musa offers a range of hotels, restaurants, and shops. Consider staying closer to the Petra Visitor Center for easy access to the site. Hotels near the visitor center, like the Mövenpick Resort Petra and the Petra Moon Hotel, often command higher prices ($200-$500+ per night during peak season) but offer unparalleled convenience. Budget-friendly options can be found further from the entrance, typically in the Al-Batra neighborhood, with prices ranging from $80-$200 per night.
Getting to the Petra Visitor Center
The Petra Visitor Center is the main entry point to the site. Taxis and shuttle buses are readily available in Wadi Musa to transport visitors to the center. A taxi ride from most hotels in Wadi Musa to the visitor center should cost approximately 5-10 Jordanian Dinars (approximately $7-14 USD). Remember to negotiate the price beforehand.
Essential Tips for Visiting Petra with Family
- Start Early: Arrive at the Petra Visitor Center as early as possible to beat the crowds and the heat. The site opens at 6:00 AM.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable, supportive shoes.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during the warmer months.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Hire a Guide: Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and culture of Petra. The visitor center offers licensed guides.
- Take Breaks: Pace yourself and take breaks throughout the day. There are several shaded areas and cafes within the site where you can rest.
- Be Respectful: Dress modestly and be respectful of local customs.
- Consider a Camel or Donkey Ride: Camel and donkey rides are available for those who prefer not to walk the entire distance, but negotiate the price beforehand and ensure the animals are treated humanely.
- Visit Little Petra: If you have time, visit Little Petra (Siq al-Barid), a smaller Nabataean site located a few kilometers from Petra. It's less crowded and offers a similar experience.
Sample Family Itinerary for Petra (2 Days)
Day 1: The Siq, Treasury, and Monastery
- Morning: Arrive early at the Petra Visitor Center and walk through the Siq to the Treasury.
- Midday: Explore the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and the Roman Theatre.
- Afternoon: Hike to the Monastery (Ad Deir). This is a challenging hike, so consider taking a donkey ride for younger children.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Wadi Musa. Try a traditional Jordanian dish like Mansaf. Restaurants like Al-Maqa'ad Bar and Restaurant offer family-friendly options.
Day 2: High Place of Sacrifice and Petra by Night
- Morning: Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice for panoramic views of Petra.
- Midday: Visit the Petra Museum to learn more about the history and archaeology of the site.
- Afternoon: Explore the Lower Market and the Great Temple.
- Evening: Experience Petra by Night (held on certain nights of the week). This is a magical experience where the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by candlelight. Tickets can be purchased at the Petra Visitor Center.
Nearby Attractions
While Petra is the main attraction, consider exploring other nearby sites:
- Wadi Rum: A stunning desert landscape located about 1.5 hours from Petra. Take a jeep tour or a camel trek to explore the dunes and rock formations.
- Aqaba: A Red Sea resort town located about 2 hours from Petra. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or diving in the Red Sea.
- Dana Biosphere Reserve: Jordan's largest nature reserve, located about 1 hour from Petra. Hike through the diverse landscapes and spot local wildlife.
- Shobak Castle: A Crusader castle located about 30 minutes from Petra. Explore the ruins and learn about the history of the Crusades.
Disclaimer
Prices and information are subject to change. Please verify details with official sources before your trip. Always check travel advisories from your home country before traveling to Jordan.
Safety Tips
- Stay on Marked Trails: Avoid wandering off marked trails, as the terrain can be dangerous.
- Be Aware of Flash Floods: Check the weather forecast before entering the Siq, as flash floods can occur.
- Watch Out for Scams: Be wary of unofficial guides or vendors who may try to overcharge you.
- Respect the Environment: Do not litter or damage the ancient structures.
- Carry a First-Aid Kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.