The Best Time to Visit Jordan: Comparing the Seasons

You are probably here because you are wondering what is the best time to visit Jordan. The answer, however, is going to depend a bit on you, your availability, and how much you like hot or cold. There is definitely a high season for visitors, and that occurs from about the middle of March when the weather starts to warm up in this part of the Middle East, until the middle of June when it starts to get really hot. The other high season is the middle of September when the weather cools off a bit to the end of November, before it gets quite wet and cold. However, there are reasons to also visit in the summer or over the Christmas holidays. It really depends on your schedule.

Best Time to go to Jordan

Why Visit Jordan in Spring

Mid-March, April, May and Early-June are the best time to visit Jordan. The days are warm, but not too hot, the sun is warm and bright and the nights are not fridged. The weather is usually good, but do keep in mind that the end of winter / early spring is when you can see rain / snow or sandstorms. These are rare, but do check the weather during your time in Jordan. If you are visiting Jordan in the spring, the wind can still be cool, you should pack a warm jacket and prepare for a chance of rain.

Spring is the most popular time of the year for hiking in Jordan. The weather is cool, and good for hiking. It can be very wet, so plan some flexibility into your itinerary.

Why Visit Jordan in Fall

Mid-September, October, to Mid-November is also the best time to visit Jordan. The hot summer days are gone (although it is still very warm in the sun) and the evenings are still warm. If you are visiting in November, bring a warm jacket, it can be cold as soon as the sun goes down and in the early mornings.

Fall is also high season for visitors, although it is not like other places in the world. Jordan sees just a million visitors a year to Petra, so even on busy days, it is nothing like other tourist sites in the world that see tens of thousands of visitors a day. Do not be put off by traveling in high season in Jordan.

Visiting Jordan in the Summer and Winter

As I mentioned, you can visit Jordanany time of the year. It is just that spring and fall are best, temperature-wise. I was recently there in July, and I was surprised that it was not as hot as I was expecting. It was also busy with tourists. Those who are tied to summer break holidays choose July to visit Jordan. Residents of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries also escape the unbearable heat and choose to visit Jordan, where the temperature is much more comfortable than their home country.

I did not find it too hot to hike in Jordan in the summer. Ensure you stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and cover your head with a hat or scarf.

If you are visiting in the winter, the sun is warm, but it is often cloudy with a cool breeze. You need warm clothes between November and April. Pack a winter jacket, gloves, and a hat. Dress in layers as the sun can be warm in certain areas of the country, but high elevations such as Amman and Petra are quite cool. I have an entire post about winter in Jordan. I suggest you read it if you are planning a winter visit.

Jordan Weather

You can read more about Wadi Rum weather here. I also have information on the climate of Petra, Amman and Aqaba in their visitor’s guide!

Amman Average Temps

Aqaba Average Temps

Petra Average Temps

Wadi Rum Average Temps

More Jordan Travel Resources

I hope that comparing the seasons has given you a god idea about the best time to go to Jordan. As mentioned, it really does depend on a lot of factors! Now that you have a timeframe in mind, I have created a number of resources from planning guides to local eats.

If you have just begun the planning, check out 101 Things to do in Jordan to give you some inspiration on the places you want to make sure you have time to see.

Rental Cars are very popular in Jordan, get a quote on renting a car before you arrive if you plan on self-driving the Kingdom.

If you are thinking of booking a tour, or wondering how much hassle a self-drive itinerary can be, check out this post I have on the best Jordan tours to book.

For your time in Amman, check out top things to do in Amman and where to eat.

For your time in Petra, check out our guide to Petra and what to eat in Wadi Musa and where to stay near Petra.

Travel Insurance for Jordan

There are a few other things to think about when it comes to travel. The first thing is travel insurance. Whether it is an emergency room visit for something as simple as strep throat, or an emergency appendix surgery, or an unfortunate moped incident things do go wrong when people travel everyday.

I highly suggest travel insurance and a good policy. I personally never travel without it, and I even checked into my policy about care for my children if I am ever in an accident or hospitalized. There are just too many things to think about.

You can find out more information and buy your travel insurance here.

Lindsay

Lindsay fell in love with Jordan when she first visited in 2016. She now goes back every year to explore more of this special place. Lindsay is also the owner of Amman Food Tours, a social enterprise that is women-owned and hires local female guides. This project provides meaningful employment for women in Amman.