Jordan has a varied climate year-round. While it’s generally dry and warm, the country does see some significant seasonal changes. Understanding the weather means you can pick the best time to visit based on what you want to do, where you want to go, and how much heat or cold you can handle. Whether you’re heading to Amman, Petra, or the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, it’s helpful to know what each season brings so you can plan properly.
Jordan’s Climate Overview
Jordan has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters; however, the temperatures can vary a lot depending on where you are. In the capital, Amman, expect hot summers and cooler (sometimes rainy) winters. In the south, like Aqaba and the Dead Sea, it stays mostly warm throughout the year. The eastern desert regions can be sweltering in the summer but quite cold at night.
The country gets very little rain, mostly during the winter months from November to March. Summers (June to September) are dry and hot, especially the further south you go.
Best Time to Visit Jordan
The best time to visit Jordan depends on what you’re coming for. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are often the most popular times because of the mild weather. This is especially true for outdoor activities like hiking in Petra or exploring Wadi Rum.
If you’re okay with heat, summer is a good time to relax by the Dead Sea or visit Aqaba since it’s a bit breezier near the water. Winter is perfect if you want to avoid crowds, though it can be quite cold in areas like Amman and Petra.
Packing Tips by Season
What you pack really depends on the time of year. Here’s a quick guide:
Spring (March-May): Lightweight clothing during the day and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Bring some comfy shoes for hiking or walking.
Summer (June-August): Pack breathable clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to shield yourself from the scorching sun. Expect evenings to stay warm, so you won’t need heavy layers.
Autumn (September-November): It’s much like spring: lightweight clothing, but with an extra layer for chilly mornings and evenings.
Winter (December-February): Definitely bring warmer clothes: a jacket, scarf, gloves, and layers. It can get quite cold, especially at higher altitudes like Petra. Rain gear might be useful too!
Jordan’s Weather in January
January is one of the coldest months in Jordan. Daytime temperatures in Amman hover around 8-12°C (46-54°F), but it can feel colder with the wind. Nights can drop to near freezing. Petra will likely be cold too, especially in the morning, so you’ll want a solid jacket. In the desert areas, like Wadi Rum, it can be chilly—especially at night.
This is also the rainiest time of year, although “rainy” is relative; it’s nowhere near the kind of rain you get in Europe or the US. The southern parts, like Aqaba and the Dead Sea, stay warmer with highs of 15-20°C (59-68°F).
Jordan’s Weather in February
February’s weather is very similar to January. Expect cold mornings and cool afternoons in higher elevations like Amman and Petra. The temperatures in Amman are between 9-13°C (48-55°F). At night, freezing temperatures are possible, so you’ll want warm clothes.
In the southern parts of Jordan, you’ll get slightly warmer weather. Aqaba and the Dead Sea stay mild with temperatures of 17-22°C (63-72°F), which can be nice if you want to avoid the colder areas.
Jordan’s Weather in March
The weather begins to warm up in March, and the rains taper off. Amman warms to highs around 14-19°C (57-66°F). Petra also starts to see milder days, though it can still be chilly in the morning.
March is a great month to explore if you want to beat the crowds. The Dead Sea and Aqaba are comfortable, with temperatures in the mid-20s°C (mid-70s°F). Since the weather is improving, you’ll still want to bring some warm clothing, especially if you’re visiting Petra or any highland areas early in the morning.
Jordan’s Weather in April
April is one of the best months to visit Jordan. Spring is in full force, bringing mild temperatures and pleasant conditions for outdoor adventures. In Amman, you can expect daytime temperatures around 18-22°C (64-72°F), perfect for exploring the city or nearby areas.
Petra is lovely in April, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Hiking is much more enjoyable compared to the heat of summer. If you’re heading south, Aqaba and the Dead Sea start getting warmer, with highs of 28-32°C (82-90°F).
Jordan’s Weather in May
May is still pleasant, but the temperatures begin to rise, especially the further south you go. Amman usually sees highs around 24-28°C (75-82°F), while Petra is similar with temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F).
In Aqaba and the Dead Sea, expect much hotter days. Temperatures can reach 33-38°C (91-100°F), which is ideal for beach relaxation but can be tough for more strenuous activities.
Jordan’s Weather in June
June signals the start of summer in Jordan, and it’s noticeably hotter. Amman heats up, with daily temperatures around 28-32°C (82-90°F), and Petra gets warm as well. Expect highs here of 30-35°C (86-95°F).
In the southern parts like Aqaba and the reigion near the Dead Sea, June can bring serious heat with temperatures climbing towards 38-41°C (100-105°F). It’s very dry and sunny, so make sure to protect yourself with sunscreen and a hat while exploring.
Jordan’s Weather in July
July is one of the hottest months in Jordan. In Amman, temperatures easily climb past 35°C (95°F) during the day. Petra can be a bit more moderate since it’s at a higher elevation, but it will still be hot. Hiking in Petra can be challenging during this time, so early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to explore.
The southern parts, including Aqaba and the Dead Sea, tend to be extremely hot, ranging from 40-45°C (104-113°F). At this time, sticking to cooler activities like swimming or relaxing by the water is probably the way to go.
Jordan’s Weather in August
August is just as hot as July in much of the country. Amman, Petra, and the surrounding areas experience similar temperatures, generally 30-40°C (86-104°F).
Aqaba and the Dead Sea remain extremely hot too, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). At this point, all-day outdoor adventures might feel like a challenge, so aim for sightseeing in the early morning or hang out by the sea.
Jordan’s Weather in September
As September rolls in, the weather starts to cool slightly, making the whole country a bit more manageable. In Amman, expect highs of 28-33°C (82-91°F), which is great for exploring.
Petra follows the same trend, with altitudes keeping things somewhat cooler than the low regions. Aqaba and the Dead Sea remain warm and great for a couple of extra beach days, with temperatures around 35°C (95°F).
Jordan’s Weather in October
October is one of the best months to visit Jordan. The weather is mild and comfortable almost everywhere. In Amman, you’ll find highs of 24-29°C (75-84°F), which is great for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
Petra is cooler as well, with daytime temperatures around 25°C (77°F). If you’re heading towards the south, Aqaba and the Dead Sea remain warm, making October a great time to visit these regions too, with highs of 31-34°C (88-93°F).
Jordan’s Weather in November
November cools down further and is also a great time to visit. In Amman, temperatures during the day reach about 17-22°C (63-72°F), making it pleasant for wandering around historical sites without the intense heat.
Petra starts to feel cooler in the evenings, so you’ll want a jacket if you visit early or late in the day. Highs during the day in Petra are around 20-23°C (68-73°F). In the south, you’ll still have warmth, especially in Aqaba, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F).
Jordan’s Weather in December
December brings the onset of winter. In Amman, expect temperatures to drop to around 10-15°C (50-59°F) during the day and cooler at night. Rain becomes more frequent, so packing a light waterproof jacket is a good idea.
Petra will be cool during this time too, with average highs of 10-15°C (50-59°F). Meanwhile, Aqaba and the Dead Sea are warmer, staying between 18-24°C (64-75°F). If you’re looking for a winter escape where you can still find some sunshine, the southern coast is the place to be!
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