Jordan in summer might surprise you.
While the sun blazes across Petra’s sandstone facades and the Red Sea sparkles in the heat, life in Jordan doesn’t slow down—it just shifts. Mornings start early, lemonde with mint flows freely, and the evenings are full of life.
It also might not be as hot as you are expecting (and that’s a good thing).
Summer in Jordan
While Spring and Fall are Jordan’s typical “high” season, you will see the country full of visitors in the summer months. Why? Well some travelers (teachers for example) can only travel in the summer and other travelers, such as those who live in Dubai and the rest of the gulf countries come to Jordan for its cooler temperatures. Yes, Jordan is much cooler than the gulf region due to its elevation.
Why visit in the Summer?
1. Less Crowded Sites
Amman, Petra, and Wadi Rum welcome hundred of thousands of travelers each year, but in summer, you’ll find fewer crowds and more space to soak it all in. Most tour groups visit in the spring and fall so you are likely to find yourself with more independent travelers and less large groups. Get an early start and wander Petra’s ancient Treasury at sunrise or enjoy the beaches of Amman with the locals, who frequent the beaches in the summer months!
2. Summer-Only Experiences
- Petra by Night runs all year, but the cool summer air and quieter evenings make it extra magical.
- Evenings in Amman come alive after dark with bustling outdoor cafés, rooftop lounges, and street food stalls open late.
- Wadi Mujib, a perfect water hike for the adventurous traveller is the perfect way to stay cool in the Dead Sea region when the daytime temps are easily at 40 celsius.
3. Seasonal Flavors
Jordan’s summer produce is something to write home about. It’s fig, grape, and watermelon season—and locals love pairing juicy melon with salty white cheese for the ultimate summer snack.
Lemon with mint is the ultimate refreshing drink. Almost every restaurant has it on the menu. You can also keep cool with cold mezze dishes. Hummus, baba ganoush, creamy labneh, and crisp fattoush salads are a few cold dishes to enjoy.
Tips for Traveling Jordan in the Summer
- Start your day early: Get up and get to the tour sites when then open in the summer months.
- Dress for the heat: Light, breathable clothes are essential, but modesty is still key.
- Stay hydrated: Jordan’s dry heat is sneaky—carry water, and say yes to the juice stand!
- Take a siesta: Do as Jordanians do—rest during peak afternoon heat and head back out as the sun softens. If your accommodation has a pool, its the perfect time to cool off before heading out for the evening.
- High elevation means (marginally) cooler temps: Petra and Amman are much cooler than the Dead Sea and Aqaba due to their high elevation. If you don’t like the heat, don’t linger too long at the Dead Sea or keep close to the water in Aqaba.
A Cool Way to Explore Amman: Food First
If you’re in Amman this summer, one of the best ways to beat the heat is through your taste buds. Amman Food Tours takes you through the streets of downtown in the early evening and past sunet. You’ll try summer-friendly dishes, sip local drinks, and finish with a full belly and a deeper understanding of the food culture in Amman.
Check availability and book your spot here
Lindsay has been visiting Jordan for the past 10 years and built this website because of the lack of practical and updated information online. 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.