Best time to visit Jordan

Jordan is a wonderful destination situated in the Middle East with a rich tapestry of history, culture and natural beauty all woven together. Jordan is the home of one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites, Petra, a stunning Treasury carved into the rock and looking like something out of an adventure movie.

If you want to find out when the best time to visit Jordan is then it is important to consider the time of year that you choose to travel in.

Each season in Jordan will have different weather conditions meaning you'll have different experiences and the numbers of tourists will also differ. Jordan is a popular destination and the main tourist spots can get busy during certain times of the year so this blog will look at the main tourist seasons in Jordan, highlight the best things to do whilst you are there and hopefully help you decide which time of year is the best time for you to visit.

Whats the Weather like?

Climate Jordan: Weather By Month

Source:(https://weatherandclimate.com/jordan)

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Nov	Oct	Dec	Year
Record high °C (°F)	17.92(64.26)	19.63(67.33)	23.51(74.32)	27.49(81.48)	32.01(89.62)	34.6(94.28)	36.33(97.39)	36.33(97.39)	34.21(93.58)	30.01(86.02)	24.59(76.26)	19.94(67.89)	36.33(97.39)
Average high °C (°F)	14.59(58.26)	16.72(62.1)	20.44(68.79)	24.78(76.6)	29.42(84.96)	32.23(90.01)	34.39(93.9)	34.3(93.74)	32.34(90.21)	27.85(82.13)	21.61(70.9)	16.52(61.74)	25.43(77.77)
Daily mean °C (°F)	11.72(53.1)	13.75(56.75)	17.28(63.1)	21.41(70.54)	26.15(79.07)	28.78(83.8)	30.68(87.22)	30.61(87.1)	28.66(83.59)	24.58(76.24)	18.72(65.7)	13.73(56.71)	22.17(71.91)
Average low °C (°F)	6.96(44.53)	8.22(46.8)	10.51(50.92)	13.34(56.01)	18.07(64.53)	20.44(68.79)	21.83(71.29)	22.21(71.98)	20.74(69.33)	17.97(64.35)	13.43(56.17)	9.02(48.24)	15.23(59.41)
Record low °C (°F)	4.77(40.59)	6.53(43.75)	9.06(48.31)	11.69(53.04)	16.65(61.97)	19.01(66.22)	20.76(69.37)	21.01(69.82)	19.26(66.67)	15.92(60.66)	10.73(51.31)	6.26(43.27)	4.77(40.59)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	29.55(1.16)	24.74(0.97)	16.42(0.65)	7.95(0.31)	5.12(0.2)	1.16(0.05)	0.03(0.0)	0.09(0.0)	1.08(0.04)	7.57(0.3)	11.7(0.46)	19.63(0.77)	10.42(0.41)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm)	4.64	4.31	3.41	2.18	1.37	0.29	0.0	0.02	0.33	2.22	2.77	3.39	2.08
Average relative humidity (%)	59.41	53.83	49.22	42.73	37.24	39.5	42.08	45.28	47.21	46.34	48.22	54.27	47.11
Mean monthly sunshine hours	7.83	8.04	10.48	12.66	13.75	14.09	13.99	13.3	11.63	11.28	9.07	8.12	11.19

Jarash city in Jordan. Known for ruins of walled Greco Roman settlement. Jordan.

So when is the best time to go to Jordan?

Let’s first look at the seasons in a bit of detail

Peak Season in Jordan

The peak season is during the spring months of March to May, as well as the autumn months of September to November.

During these months the weather is warm and temperatures are mild ranging from around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) during the day.so its probably the best time to visit Jordan, explore its stunning landscapes and wander round the historical sites.

However, because it's the peak season, there will be a lot of other tourists and the prices for accommodations and tours may be a lot higher so it's a good idea to plan and book ahead to make the most of your trip and avoid the potential of missing out on seeing some of the special sites. However despite the crowds, visiting Jordan during the peak season means there will a lot going on, so a great time to go and to appreciate the culture of Jordan.

Low season in Jordan

The low season in Jordan is during the summer months, from June to August. This season is when the temperatures rise significantly, often getting to well over 100°F (38°C) in many parts of the country, especially in the desert areas, in places like Wadi Rum and Petra. This is not the best time to visit Jordan and is when tourism decreases as it’s just too hot.

There are pros and cons to visiting Jordan during the low season. On the positive side, there’ll be fewer people so visiting the more popular attractions like Petra and the Dead Sea will be easier and you may also find that hotels and tour operators offer discounted rates during this time so it will be a much cheaper time to visit. It is important, however, to be prepared for the intense heat so you must make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and dress appropriately for the weather. Taking part in many outdoor activities, like hiking in Petra or wandering around the desert, will be more challenging in the extreme heat, so take precautions and plan your journey carefully.

Though visiting Jordan during the low season may not be the best time to visit it can still be a great experience as you'll be able to explore Jordan at a slower pace, soak in the rich history, stunning landscapes and warm hospitality without having to cope with lots of people and crowds.

Things to do in Jordan

Explore Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at the iconic Treasury and explore the ancient city carved into the rose-red cliffs.
Visit the Wadi Rum Desert and go on a desert adventure in Wadi Rum, often called the Valley of the Moon. Take a jeep tour, go camel trekking, or even try sandboarding amidst the otherworldly landscapes.
Float in the Dead Sea to experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea. Don't forget to slather yourself in the mineral-rich mud for a rejuvenating spa treatment.
Visit the Jerash Archaeological Site and step back in time. Its one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. You can wander through colonnaded streets, see the ancient temples and even watch reenactments of Roman life in the hippodrome.
Visit Amman the vibrant capital city of Jordan, with its blend of modern and traditional. Visit historic sites like the Citadel and Roman Theatre.
Visit the Dana Biosphere Reserve and immerse yourself in Jordan's diverse ecosystems. You can hike through rugged canyons, spot rare wildlife, and stay in eco-friendly accommodations to truly connect with nature.
Explore the ancient mosaic city of Madaba, known for its intricate Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, including the famous Madaba Map. Then, ascend to Mount Nebo for breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and the Promised Land.
Spend a night under the stars in a Bedouin camp in the desert.
Go diving in Aqaba to discover the underwater wonders of the Red Sea in Aqaba.

Desert in Jordan

What is the hottest month in Jordan?

The hottest month in Jordan is usually July when temperatures rise especially in the desert regions like Wadi Rum and often reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). If you travel to Jordan in this month then it's essential to stay hydrated and find shade during the hottest parts of the day.

However, despite the heat, July can still be a great time to explore Jordan's incredible historical sites and natural wonders, just be prepared!

Best time to visit Petra

Visiting Petra, the ancient city carved into the rose-red cliffs of Jordan, is a dream for many travellers. Now, let's talk about the best time to make that dream a reality!

March to May, spring in Jordan, is often considered the best time to visit Petra. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from comfortable to warm during the day and cool at night. This is also the time when the surrounding desert landscape comes to life with vibrant blooms, making your trek to Petra even more picturesque.
September to November is autumn and is similar to spring, and another great time to visit and explore Petra. The scorching heat of summer starts to fade away, and temperatures become more comfortable for outdoor activities. Plus, the crowds tend to thin out compared to the peak summer months, so you'll have a more peaceful time to wander among the ancient ruins.
December to February is winter in Petra and can be cold, it's still possible to visit during this time if you don't mind wearing more clothes
June to August in Petra is probably too hot to visit and is best avoided.

So if you're aiming for the perfect balance of comfortable weather and fewer crowds, spring and autumn are the best times to go to Petra.

Best time to visit Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is an incredible desert destination in Jordan. The weather there can be quite extreme so if you want to visit Wadi Rum its worth looking at when is the best time to go.

In the summer,from June to August, temperatures often reaching well over 100°F (38°C) during the day, extremely hot and dry, so if you're not used to that kind of heat, it can be a bit of a shock to the system. Definitely pack your sunscreen and stay hydrated if you're visiting during this time.

Winter, on the other hand, from December to February, is cooler with more comfortable temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Nights can get pretty chilly, though, dropping down to around 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C), so don't forget to bring some layers to bundle up in.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are probably the best times to visit Wadi Rum if you're looking for milder temperatures. Days are pleasantly warm, usually hovering around 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), perfect for exploring the desert landscape without feeling like you're being baked alive.

Rainfall is pretty minimal throughout the year, but it's not unheard of to experience the occasional shower, especially during the winter months. Just something to keep in mind when planning your trip!

How crowded does Wadi Rum get?

Wadi Rum is a breathtaking desert destination in Jordan that's become increasingly popular and at certain times of the year extremely busy.

During the peak tourist seasons, spring and autumn, Wadi Rum can get quite busy, especially around popular landmarks and campsites. If you choose to visit during these times, then you'll definitely have to deal with more tourists and longer wait times for activities like camel rides, jeep tours or overnight stays in the desert camps.

On the flip side, if you visit during the summer months, it will be less crowded as the extremely hot temperatures put off many travellers. However, because the heat can be quite intense its important to take necessary precautions if you choose to visit during this time.

The best time to consider visiting Wadi Rum is during the shoulder seasons, early spring or late autumn as this is when the weather is still nice but there are a lot fewer crowds.

Month by month breakdown of things to do in Jordan

Things to do in Jordan in January
January can be a fantastic time to visit Jordan, especially if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. During this month, the weather tends to be mild and comfortable, making it ideal for exploring Jordan's many attractions, perfect for exploring without the scorching heat.

Things to do in Jordan in February
With nice, cooler temperatures, February is perfect for a trip to Jordan to go hiking in the stunning landscapes of Wadi Rum or Dana Biosphere Reserve and having an experience of the magic of the desert. Go camel trekking or camp under the stars in Wadi Rum.

Things to do in Jordan in March
March is Spring and you can see the wildflowers in bloom. Spring brings a burst of colour to Jordan's landscapes, with wildflowers dotting the hillsides and valleys.There are also a host of cultural events and festivals during March.

Things to do in Jordan in April
April has perfect weather, great for exploring outdoor attractions such as Petra, the Dead Sea, and the ancient city of Jerash. There are lots of festivals celebrating springtime harvests and cultural traditions in towns and villages across the country.

Things to do in Jordan in May
May has great weather for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and canyoning in Jordan's breathtaking natural landscapes and a great time to head to the Red Sea in Aqaba as well as for going snorkelling and diving.

Things to do in Jordan in June
June kicks off the summer season in Jordan, with longer days perfect for getting the most out of your days there. You can explore the desert dunes of Wadi Rum on jeep tours or go overnight camping under the vast desert sky.

Things to do in Jordan in July
Beat the heat by staying inside in museums, galleries and historical sites in Amman and other cities. Because its so hot in July it’s a great time for nightlife in Amman, with lively cafes, restaurants, and lots of entertainment venues open late into the night.

Things to do in Jordan in August
Beat the summer heat with a refreshing dip in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea, also known for their therapeutic properties. Visit ancient ruins, castles, and museums, in the cooler mornings and evenings.

Things to do in Jordan in September
September is the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking. This is the time for joining in harvest festivities and trying lots of fresh seasonal produce at local markets.

Things to do in Jordan in October
Explore the stunning wadis (valleys) of Jordan, such as Wadi Mujib and Wadi Bin Hammad, in October with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall.

Things to do in Jordan in November
November is a lovely time for hiking and trekking in the nature reserves like Dana Biosphere Reserve and Ajloun Forest Reserve as the temperatures are cooler. You can also visit ancient sites, museums and archaeological sites with fewer crowds.

Things to do in Jordan in December
This is the time to experience Christmas and New Year with lots of special events and markets going on. You can also go in a camel ride, camp in the desert or stargaze in the Wadi Rum, with its crisp nights.

Travel tips for Jordan

Visas: Check the visa requirements before you go. Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival, but it's always best to double-check.
Best time to go: The best times to visit Jordan are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring.
Documentation: Make sure you have travel insurance and consider vaccinations before travelling. Jordan is generally safe, but it's always best to be prepared.
Dress code: Be aware of Jordan's dress code and respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. For women, it's recommended to dress conservatively, covering shoulders and knees.
Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Currency: The currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in more remote areas.
Transport options: Public transportation options in Jordan include taxis, buses, and rental cars. Taxis are readily available and can be a convenient way to get around, but be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Safety: Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East, but it's always wise to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid political demonstrations, and follow local advice.
Jordanians are known for their hospitality, so be prepared for warm welcomes and offers of tea. It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home and to accept food or drinks when offered.