The best time to visit Jordan depends on the type of traveler that you are. A lot of people know Jordan for Petra and Wadi Rum, but as a destination Jordan has so much more to offer in terms of natural beauty, culture, food and dramatic landscapes which change according to the seasons. My first visit to (the Hashemite Kingdom of) Jordan was in the winter season (which by the way is not as harsh as the north American winters), and I was pleasantly surprised to see that I could wear short-sleeves tops and dresses, and only needed a light jacket on selected nights. So as you are planning your trip to Jordan, let this guide in fact… guide you in deciding the best time to visit Jordan based on the weather, festivals, crowds, budget, and activities, so you can plan your perfect Jordanian adventure in accordance with your preferences. 

Let’s dive in!

🗓️ Quick Overview: Best Time to Visit Jordan

🌸 Spring (March to May): Jordan in Full Bloom

Why It’s the Best Time to Visit Jordan:

Although my first visit to Jordan was in the winter (December – February), I really want to go back in the spring to experience this gorgeous greenery and see the flowers blooming in places where I wouldn’t expect them to! 

Spring is widely regarded as the best time to visit Jordan—especially for first-timers. There are lesser crowds (lesser tourists), which means you get the majority of sites to yourself (and a few others!) If you really want to take in the culture and take those pictures without the crowds, this is when you want to go. Additionally, spring is the perfect time to experience the outdoors in Jordan, with hikes across the Jordanian Trail. Temperatures are comfortably warm during the day, cool in the evenings, and the countryside is alive with wildflowers and greenery, especially in the north.

Top Places to Explore in Jordan during the Spring

Here are the best sites to see during this season: 

• Petra: Perfect weather for walking long distances and hiking the trails
• Wadi Rum: Mild temperatures make desert camping enjoyable. And you definitely want to try a hot air balloon ride on one of the mornings!
• Dead Sea: Warm enough to swim and enjoy spa treatments
• Amman & Jerash: Great for city tours and ancient ruins
• Mount Nebo: great to see the Panoramic view of Mount Nebo and surrounded areas
• Madaba: Great season to explore the city of mosaics and mingle with locals. 

And if you are wondering what to pack for your trip to Jordan, I made a comprehensive guide on what to wear in Jordan. This will make your trip packing and planning a breeze. 

☀️ Summer (June to August): Hot, Dry, and Low on Crowds

Summer is hot, especially in the desert and Petra, but it’s also the low season, meaning fewer crowds and better hotel deals. This is a good time if you plan to spend your days at a resort by the Dead Sea or Red Sea in Aqaba.

Here are the best sites to see during this season: 

• Aqaba: Best time for diving, snorkeling, and other water activities
• Wadi Rum: Hot during the day, but stargazing at night is incredible
• Petra: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
• Dead Sea: Warm to swim and enjoy spa treatments
• Amman & Jerash: Great for city tours and ancient ruins
• Mount Nebo: great to see the Panoramic view of Mount Nebo and surrounded areas
• Madaba: Great season to explore the city of mosaics and mingle with locals. 

Key Events to experience in Jordan in the summer:

• Amman International Film Festival (July)
• Jerash Festival of Culture (July)

🍂 Autumn (September to November): Mild Weather & Golden Light

Autumn is the second-best time to visit Jordan, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists compared to spring. The desert landscapes glow in the golden autumn light, making this a photographer’s dream.

Here are the best sites to see during this season: 

• Petra & Wadi Rum: Excellent for long hikes and camel treks
• Dana Biosphere Reserve: Hiking trails are at their best
• Madaba & Mount Nebo: Great for day trips from Amman
• Aqaba: Best time for diving, snorkeling, and other water activities
• Dead Sea: Warm to swim and enjoy spa treatments
• Amman & Jerash: Great for city tours and ancient ruins
• Mount Nebo: great to see the Panoramic view of Mount Nebo and surrounded areas

❄️ Winter (December to February): Quiet, Cool, and Peaceful

Winter is Jordan’s coolest and wettest season, especially in the north. Some mountainous areas may even see snow, including Petra and Amman. This is also when I visited Jordan. And before going, I didn’t even know it was winter. The weather is very good, with cooler nights around mountainous areas and in the desert. 

• Dead Sea: Still warm enough to float and relax
• Amman & Madaba: Urban exploration, museum visits, and cafes
• Petra: Open year-round, but some trails may be slippery after rain
• Wadi Rum: Mild temperatures make desert camping enjoyable. And you definitely want to try a hot air balloon ride on one of the mornings!
• Dead Sea: Warm enough to swim and enjoy spa treatments
• Jerash: Great for city tours and ancient ruins
• Mount Nebo: great to see the Panoramic view of Mount Nebo and surrounded areas
  

🧭 Month-by-Month Breakdown: Best Time to Visit Based on Interests

💡 Local Tips for Choosing the Best Time to Visit Jordan

• Avoid major religious holidays like Ramadan if you’re looking for fully operational tourist services. While it’s a unique cultural experience, some restaurants and businesses may close during the day.
• Book Petra and Wadi Rum tours in advance during peak seasons (March–May, September–November).
• Dress modestly year-round, especially when visiting religious or conservative areas.

🌍 So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Jordan?

If you want perfect weather, beautiful landscapes, and full access to Jordan’s best experiences, February to May and September to November are ideal. But every season offers something special—from winter solitude to summer deals and spring vibrancy.

No matter when you go, Jordan is a country that will surprise, humble, and inspire you—with its ancient history, warm hospitality, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Ready to pack your bags? Check out my comprehensive guide on What to Wear in Jordan so you can travel in style and respect the culture—whatever season you choose. And to make your trip even easier, you can get my comprehensive packing list to make sure you don’t forget anything for this once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip.