Petra Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Petra.

Climate overview of Petra

Located in southeastern Jordan, Petra has a warm desert climate characterized by wide temperature variations and low precipitation. Summers are warm but rarely extremely hot, while nights can be cool, even after the hottest days. Winters are generally cool, with night frosts not being uncommon.

The summer months are always dry, while winter brings some precipitation, though it remains minimal. About 362 mm (14 in) of precipitation falls annually.

Petra Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Petra - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Petra

In Petra, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very warm 33°C (91°F) in August to a moderate 15°C (59°F) in January.

Nighttime temperatures range from 21°C (70°F) in August to 5°C (41°F) in January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Petra

Petra sits in an arid zone with minimal moisture, averaging 93 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall per year. The seasons in Petra bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, January, receives low rainfall, with an average of 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 5 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month, July, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 0.1 mm (0 in) over 0 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Petra Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Petra

In Petra, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 12.8 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 7.4 hours per average day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Ma'an, Jordan (33 KM, 20 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Ma'an, Jordan (33 KM, 20 Miles).

Humidity in Petra by Month

Best Time to Visit Petra

Conditions in Petra are generally most comfortable in March, April, May, October and November. They are typically least comfortable in July and August.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: March, April, May, October and November
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: June, July and August
  • Seasonal pattern: Very little rainfall year-round, with very warm summers and mild winters

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Petra

What is the best time to visit Petra?

March, April, May, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Petra. In contrast, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions. Petra has very little rainfall year-round, with very warm summers and mild winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Petra?

Daytime highs range from 15°C (59°F) in January to 33°C (91°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 5°C (41°F) to 21°C (70°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Petra get?

Annual rainfall is around 93 mm (3.7 in). January is the wettest month with 24 mm (0.9 in), while July is the driest with 0.1 mm (0 in).

How sunny is Petra?

Petra receives around 3,509 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 384 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 223 hours. Overall, Petra enjoys abundant sunshine.

Petra 3-Day Forecast

Petra on the map

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