When to Go

Petra is situated in the middle of an arid desert, making it fairly warm and dry all year round. However, there are still quite distinct wet and dry seasons that may influence when you want to travel.

Wet Season

From November to April is when Petra gets most of its rain, however little that may be. January sees the most rain, and is also the coldest month of the year with temperatures dipping to as low as 1 degree C. Generally the coolest months are the same as in any Northern hemisphere country, with winter lasting from December through February. The average temperature during these months is 13 degrees C. In November and April the area succumbs to gale force winds that can last for one to two days. A dust cloud descends on the area and temperatures rise by 10 to 15 degrees C while the humidity drops to less than 10 percent. If you're going to visit in either of these months be sure to allow plenty of time, as you may be stuck indoors for a day or two.

Dry Season

The dry season lasts from May through October, with very little rainfall descending on the area. In the summertime, from June through September, there is practically no rainfall. From June through September the temperature averages around 30 degrees C, with July and August reaching 36 degrees C. A lighter wind blows from June through September, and the dry air causes the daytime temperature to rise rapidly. Temperatures during this time are more variable than in the wet season, with hot days and cool nights. If you decide to travel in the dry season, remember that temperatures are recorded in the shade and be prepared for the heat with plenty of water.

If you are looking for more moderate conditions, then March or October are probably the best times to visit. Regardless of what month you decide to travel, however, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and carry a bottle of water as well as a good hat. It's also worth noting that the best time to take photographs of this beautiful city of rock are in the early mornings or the evenings, when the sun turns the rock into a glowing, dusty pink.