Petra weather: The ancient city of Petra, located in the southern part of Jordan, is known for its unique and beautiful rock-cut architecture, which has made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the weather in Petra can vary greatly depending on the time of year, and it’s important to be aware of these variations when planning a visit. Petra’s location in the desert means that it experiences hot summers and mild winters, with little rainfall throughout the year.
In general, the temperatures in Petra are quite extreme, with highs often reaching over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) during the summer months and dropping to below freezing during the winter. The months of June, July, and August are the hottest, with daytime temperatures often reaching 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. The winter months, on the other hand, are much cooler, with daytime temperatures averaging around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) and nighttime temperatures dropping to just above freezing.
The amount of rainfall in Petra is also relatively low, with most of the rain falling between November and March. However, even during these months, the total amount of rainfall is usually less than 50mm (2 inches) per year. This means that Petra is a dry and arid place, and visitors should be prepared for hot and dry conditions.
| Month | Low (°C) | High (°C) | Low (°F) | High (°F) | Rain (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5 | 20 | 41 | 68 | 20 |
| February | 5 | 20 | 41 | 68 | 20 |
| March | 5 | 20 | 41 | 68 | 20 |
| April | 10 | 25 | 50 | 77 | 10 |
| May | 15 | 30 | 59 | 86 | 5 |
| June | 20 | 40 | 68 | 104 | 1 |
| July | 25 | 45 | 77 | 113 | 1 |
| August | 25 | 45 | 77 | 113 | 1 |
| September | 20 | 40 | 68 | 104 | 1 |
| October | 15 | 30 | 59 | 86 | 5 |
| November | 10 | 25 | 50 | 77 | 10 |
| December | 5 | 20 | 41 | 68 | 20 |
When it comes to deciding the best time to visit Petra, it ultimately depends on personal preferences and what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you’re looking to avoid the extreme heat and want to enjoy the city’s beautiful rock-cut architecture without breaking a sweat, the best time to visit would be during the spring or fall months of March to May and September to November. During these months, temperatures are mild and the crowds are not as large as they are during the summer months.
However, if you’re looking to experience Petra in all its glory and don’t mind the heat, the summer months of June to August can be a great time to visit. During these months, the weather is hot and dry, making for an authentic desert experience. Additionally, the crowds are smaller during these months, so you’ll have more opportunities to explore the city at your own pace.
Another thing to consider is the Petra by Night event, which takes place every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Petra by Night is a unique opportunity to explore the city’s ancient Siq and Treasury by candlelight. The event runs from 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm, so it’s best to visit Petra during the months when the temperatures are milder at night, such as March to May and September to November.
Overall, there is no one “best” time to visit Petra as the weather and crowds can vary greatly depending on the time of year. It’s important to consider your own preferences, as well as the activities you plan on doing during your visit, when deciding when to go. By keeping in mind the weather and crowds, you can ensure that your visit to Petra is a memorable and enjoyable one.
