Jordan in Winter: Weather, What to Pack and Is It Worth It?
Many travellers think of Jordan as a spring or autumn destination, but winter is one of the best-kept secrets: fewer crowds at Petra, soft light for photos, warm days at the Dead Sea and Aqaba, and lower prices in many hotels. Here is what to expect from December to February, from our team in Amman.
• Yes, winter is a good time to visit Jordan, especially for Petra, the Dead Sea and Aqaba.
• Days are mostly sunny and mild; nights are cold in Amman, Petra and Wadi Rum.
• Pack layers and a warm jacket, and plan Petra early in the day.
Weather in Jordan in winter
| Place | Day (approx.) | Night (approx.) | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amman | 10–15 °C | 3–6 °C | Fresh and sunny, a few rainy days; rare snow |
| Petra | 12–16 °C | 2–5 °C | Perfect for walking; cold early mornings |
| Wadi Rum | 15–18 °C | 0–4 °C | Sunny days, very cold nights in the camp |
| Dead Sea | 20–23 °C | 12–15 °C | Warm enough to float in the sea |
| Aqaba | 21–24 °C | 10–13 °C | Mild, good for snorkelling in the Red Sea |
These are typical averages; a few days each winter can be rainy or windy, so we keep the programme flexible.
Why visit Jordan in winter?
- Fewer crowds: the Siq and the Treasury in Petra are much quieter than in spring and autumn.
- Comfortable walking: no summer heat, so the climb to the Monastery is far easier.
- Warmth in the south: the Dead Sea and Aqaba feel like spring when Europe is cold.
- Better prices: many hotels have low-season rates, except over Christmas and New Year.
Things to know
- Short days: sunset is around 5 pm, so we start early to make the most of daylight.
- Cold nights in the desert: desert camps provide heavy blankets and many have heated rooms or domes, but bring a warm layer.
- Christmas and New Year: hotels and Wadi Rum domes fill up fast; book early.
- Rain: occasional rain can close the Siq in Petra for a few hours for safety; your driver and our team adjust the plan on the day.
What to pack for Jordan in winter
- A warm jacket and a fleece or sweater for evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes that can handle a little mud.
- A swimsuit for the Dead Sea and Aqaba.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: the winter sun is strong.
A winter itinerary idea
Start in Amman and Jerash, drive the King's Highway to Petra, spend a night in Wadi Rum, and finish with two warm days at the Dead Sea or Aqaba. See our 7-day Jordan itinerary and Jordan tour packages, or read the weather in Jordan month by month.
Frequently asked questions
Does it snow in Jordan?
Sometimes, for a day or two in Amman and Petra, usually in January or February. It is rare and melts quickly.
Can I swim in the Dead Sea in winter?
Yes. The water stays pleasant and the air is warm during the day, because the Dead Sea is more than 400 metres below sea level.
Is Wadi Rum too cold in winter?
The days are lovely; the nights are cold. With the camp's blankets and a warm jacket it is a magical experience, with some of the clearest skies of the year.
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