The Best Time to Visit Jordan in 2023 | When to Go

A gateway to scenic natural landscapes, religious sites, and a plethora of authentically-packed historic landmarks, Jordan welcomes travelers curious to see what this Middle-East oasis has to offer.

Whether you’re keen to explore the ancient ruins of Petra or indulge in finger-licking dishes, spending time in Jordan is never a waste of time. And with so many things to do and see once you’re there, one has to wonder — when is the best time to visit Jordan?

The answer depends on your budget and what you hope to get out of your stay. We help you with this and other Jordan-related questions in our detailed guide, so let us be your guide!

The Best Time to Visit Jordan

The March–May (spring) and the September–November (fall) periods are the best times to visit Jordan.

These windows of agreeable climate are great for all outdoor activities, including hiking, visiting historical sites, enjoying rooftop bars, or even sleeping under the stars.

March is a fairly comfortable spring month in Amman, Jordan’s capital, with average temperatures varying between 43°F and 63°F. March sees the blooming of wildflowers, including the stunning black iris — an amazing sight you can experience while hiking.

April sees average temperatures ranging between 49.1°F and 72.7°. The month is ideal for enjoying the excitement that comes with spring.

A relatively hot month, May welcomes visitors with temperatures fluctuating between 82°F and 56.3°F. May travelers are always advised to enjoy the beach before the summer heat arrives with full force.

To add sportish vibes to your Jordan visit, check out the Dead Sea Ultra Marathon. September opens the fall season with temperatures in the range of an average high of 87.3°F and an average low of 61.9°F.

September is marked by dynamic activities such as The Petra Desert Marathon and olive harvesting. October has temperatures hovering around 56.8°F during the day and 80.8°F at night.

October visitors can attend the Amman Marathon (we know, a lot of marathons!) and see whether the newly-established Jordan Trail Thru-Hike is being organized.

With average temperatures varying between 68.7°F and 48.7°F, November is an agreeable month. Weather-wise, the month is ideal for exploring ancient ruins and high-elevation areas.

Finally, note that other visitors will want to take advantage of these months, so get ready for large crowds and high prices. Booking your stay well in advance is also recommended.

Cheapest Time to Visit Jordan

The cheapest time to visit Jordan is during the December–February period in winter. Despite being in the Middle East, the southern and northern highlands in Jordan experience relatively chilly temperatures that keep most visitors.

December sees averages fluctuating between 41.4°F and 57.9.°F. It’s also the month with the shortest days of the year, with an average of 10h of daylight.

February, though, marks the end of the winter season, with average temperatures varying between 39.6°F and 56.7°F. Snow is a very rare occurrence in Jordan, but if it happens, it might just be what’s needed to make your stay even more exciting and special.

Heavy rainfall at this time may lead to tour delays (or worse, cancellations!), so going with the flow is key if you want to have a good time in Jordan.

Finally, if you find yourself in Jordan in February, add the annual Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival and the Azraq Festival to your entertainment list to experience a joyful atmosphere. The former honors Bedouin cuisine, while the latter celebrates handmade crafts, culture, and versatile art.

Least Busy Time to Visit Jordan

If you wish to face fewer crowds during your Jordan trip, consider visiting in January. A cool winter month, January has average temperatures between 38.6°F and 54.1°F.

It’s also the month with the most rainfall, with 63 mm of precipitation on average. However, there’s nothing that a solid winter-proof plan can’t fix.

You could go to museums, attend various workshops, visit churches and marvel at the architecture, and enjoy Jordanian cuisine indoors in some foodie-approved restaurants.

Plus, going to Jordan in January means you get to do all these things without worrying about queues, fully-booked tours, people-packed restaurants, or over-the-roof prices.

Worst Time to Visit Jordan

While Jordan is a year-round destination, we believe going in summer in the June–August period is the worst choice simply because summers often see scorching temperatures.

Jordanian summers can be uncomfortable both for locals and visitors, and more often than not, you may find yourself focusing more on staying hydrated and finding shade rather than exploring the cities, observing ancient sites, or indulging in fun activities.

A hot summer month, June has temperatures between a maximum of 87.4°F and a minimum of 61.9°F. It’s also the month with the longest days in the entire year.

August is hands down the hottest month, with average temperatures ranging between 90.3°F and 65.5°F. July has temperatures varying between an average high of 89.6°F and an average low of 65.3°F.

That said, if you do end up visiting Jordan in the peak of summer, there’s a solution for heat-related issues.

For starters, you can begin your day early in the morning, avoid the sun when it’s the hottest, carry water with you at all times, and frequently reapply SPF.

Fruit lovers can take advantage of various summer fruits, such as figs and watermelon, to freshen up their journey. When visiting major landmarks, seek shade in the canyons, explore waterfalls, and find beauty in the summer sweat and heat.

If you’re up for facing the challenge these temperatures bring, however, get ready to attend events such as the annually-held Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts.

Being one of the most spectacular summer events, the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts includes folklore dances, plays, ballets, and operas.

Things to Consider

Planning a trip to an exotic country such as Jordan leads to people having their heads in the clouds, but staying grounded is crucial if you want a stress-free trip.

Our tips below should do the trick:

• While the political situation in the country is more or less stable, protests take place from time to time in Amman or other bigger cities. Although these protests are relatively peaceful, travelers should keep up with the latest news, follow media reports, and take some sensible precautions, such as avoiding areas with demonstrations or large, suspicious gatherings. Most protests in the capital, Amman, are said to occur on Thursday evenings at the Prime Ministry compound in the 4th Circle area or on Fridays right next to the Husseini mosque.
• Being recognized as one of the top UNESCO Heritage Sites, Petra attracts a myriad of tourists all the time. Unfortunately, it has strict opening/closing hours, and failing to obey them leads to visitors remaining locked in Petra during the night. Not only is this an unfortunate event, but it also may result in arrest and prosecution.
• Crime is relatively low — most crime includes bag snatching and pick-pocketing. Keeping your valuables protected at all times, and not flashing expensive items should keep you safe.
• Jordan has approximately 80 valleys, or “wadis.” During the country’s rainy season, they experience flash floods. This means that checking the weather conditions before you travel to such places is a must. If you do find yourself in such a situation, however, look for a high point and don’t try crossing the water.
• Being predominantly Islamic, Jordan is quite a conservative country. This means respecting local customs and traditions is non-negotiable if you want a stress-free stay and making sure you don’t end up offending locals or breaking the law. For instance, drinking alcohol on the streets is illegal, but doing so in clubs or bars is fine. There are no official laws prohibiting homosexual acts, but public LGBT behavior isn’t well-accepted, so keeping a low profile is advisable.
• If you’re in need of medical assistance, search for it in Amman (if possible). This is so because medical facilities outside the capital are lackluster. Aqaba is also fine for emergency treatments.
• Most major cities have ATMs, but they’re less available in some rural areas.
• Note that the weather in Jordan isn’t uniform, meaning that apart from the season, it also varies depending on the location and the altitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jordan a cheap place to visit?

We’re not going to lie to you — Jordan isn’t a budget-friendly destination. In fact, it’s said to be one of the most expensive countries in the Middle East, with living costs much higher than people would expect for a developing country.

However, with a neat plan and detailed itinerary organization, you should be able to visit Jordan without breaking the bank.

You can easily calculate how much money you’ll need for your stay based on the following estimates:

• The average costs for a three-day trip to Amman are:
  • $358 for a solo traveler;
  • $609 for a couple;
  • $788 for a family of four.
• Hotels in the city center range between $103-$258 ($129 per night on average); Airbnb rentals cost $32 per night for the whole apartment.
• Visitors should set aside $44 per person per day for transportation and restaurant costs.

That said, do note that the above-mentioned figures are just approximations, which means they’re subject to change.

​​What is the best way to go around Jordan?

The most common way of getting around Jordan is by bus. Most buses are fifteen- or eighteen-seaters. Certain larger ones may have air-conditioning too. Do note that timetables are rarely reliable, however.

Most buses depart only when full. That means that travelers wanting to visit less-traveled routes may need to wait for some time before their bus fills up and starts moving toward the desired location. Also, foreigners shouldn’t sit next to Jordanians of the opposite sex.

If you decide to rent a car, note that driving in Jordan isn’t as chaotic as in Egypt, for instance, but it isn’t as sophisticated as in the West, either (more about driving in Jordan in a minute).

Moving on, there is no railway system in Jordan at the moment, with the exception of The Hedjaz Jordan Railway, which runs once a day or very occasionally.

Opting for a bike is another alternative but not a common one. In fact, riding a bike may get you some weird looks from locals. Also, the steep hills, along with the chaotic driving, are less than ideal for bikes.

Taxis are yellow and will take you anywhere as long as you agree on the price. Finally, don’t accept lifts from random strangers. If you’re in need of transport, always ask your hotel or accommodation to recommend a trustworthy driver and help you in a way that won’t put you in danger.

That said, hitchhiking is a common practice in Jordan, especially because buses have “failed” passengers with their unreliable schedule, so whatever it is you decide, make sure to use discernment and common sense.

Can foreigners drive in Jordan?

Yes, foreigners can drive in Jordan as long as they adhere to the local driving laws and regulations. For instance, you need to have an International Driving Permit to be able to drive.

Also, according to Jordanian laws, if drivers hit a pedestrian, they’re always found guilty. Front seat belts are required by law, and failure to obey this may lead to a fine. All vehicles must be equipped with a warning triangle and a fire extinguisher.

That said, many travelers are discouraged from driving in Jordan for the following reason: the country is ranked 48th worldwide for the number of deaths per population in relation to road traffic accidents.

The Desert Highway is especially known for a large number of such fatalities. Driving carefully should be your main priority, as well as keeping your eyes peeled for stray animals or poorly marked roads (or completely unmarked ones, for that matter).

Such unmarked roads make drivers approach the lanes with “individual interpretations,” as overtaking is common, making driving at night an even greater challenge.

Is Jordan safe for female travelers?

On the whole, locals are respectful toward women, and women should have a carefree stay in Jordan. However, sexual assault, verbal harassment, or other unfortunate situations are possible, as in any other country.

Women travelers are advised to keep a low profile, avoid walking alone, especially at night, and dress modestly out of respect for the local requirements. Also, women shouldn’t ride in the front taxi seats, especially if they’re traveling alone.

What is the traditional food of Jordan?

Jordanian cuisine consists of many different ingredients, the main one being meat. Some of the most common types of meat include chicken, lamb, beef, and goat. Rice is frequently served as a side dish.

Here are some of the most popular main dishes you should try during your trip to Jordan:

• Al-rashooff, a winter meal featuring lentils, yogurt, and coarse wheat flour;
• Althan al-shayeb, known as a local ravioli dish;
• Fasoulya beyda, white beans prepared in tomato sauce and served with rice;
• Fasoulya khadra, green beans prepared in tomato sauce and served with rice;
• Haneeth, a well-known Jordanian dish, which includes roasted lamb stuffed with rice, nuts, chopped onions, and raisins;
• Mansaf, the most distinctive Jordanian dish, made of lamb cooked in “jameed” and served with rice or bulgur;
• Zarb, Bedouin barbecue;
• Kousa mahshi, minced meat and rice stuffed in zucchinis.

What are five interesting facts about Jordan?

Here are five interesting facts about Jordan:

1. Only a surprising 15% of the ancient city of Petra has been explored. This means there’s probably much more to come!
2. Jordan is home to the lowest point on land in the world — the Dead Sea — at 420 meters (1378 feet) below sea level.
3. There are more than 100,000 archeological sites.
4. Jordan has one of the oldest dams in the entire world — the Jawa Dam. 
5. It’s one of the first Arab countries to allow female police officers. What’s more, it also opened a women’s police academy in 1972 in Amman.

What are some facts about Jordanian people?

In general, Jordanians show respect toward people who are friendly and polite. Hospitality is ingrained in their culture. Locals are socially conservative, and one’s family is always a priority. Jordanian people take great pride in their cultural heritage.

Most people desire large families, although this is typical for rural areas. Urban families tend to have up to three children. Fathers are seen as the “head of the family” and are supposed to support all members financially.

Mothers are devoted to house chores and bringing up children. Unmarried children resume living with their parents. Jordanians express a lot of feelings when they communicate, so don’t be surprised if their conversations seem really “heated” and lively.

​​What are the natural disasters in Jordan?

Natural disasters in Jordan typically include extreme temperatures, droughts, storms, flash floods, and landslides. Periodic earthquakes happen from time to time.

While rainfall varies from one year to another in Jordan, it frequently causes serious consequences. Flooding can be damaging in a way that it destroys agricultural land, hinders urban infrastructure, and claims people’s lives.

Erosion and landslide issues are mainly prevalent on the mountains’ steep slopes as well as the Amman-based wadis, especially Nuzha, Akhdar, Ashrafiyah, Hussein, and Weibdeh.

How many days in Jordan are good?

To see Jordan and its major attractions, we suggest spending at least a whole week in the country. That said, if you truly wish to experience all it has to offer, the ideal itinerary would be around two weeks.

This would help you gain a deeper understanding of the country’s traditions, culture, heritage, and scenic landscapes, to name a few.

Over to You — Book Your Trip Today!

So, to recap: the best time to visit Jordan is during the March–May (spring) period and the September–November (fall) period. You can enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities, going from one historical landmark to another, or stargazing without worrying about the weather.

If you ever thought of going to Jordan on a budget, the December–February period in winter is the time to do so. It’s when you stand the chance of finding good airfare deals, more affordable accommodation options, and treating yourself without spending a fortune.

That said, we already mentioned that Jordan isn’t the cheapest destination to visit, so even if you go during this budget-friendly period, chances are you’ll still need to spend more than you would in some other destinations.

If you’re trying to stay away from large crowds and wish to feel the holiness Jordan radiates, consider going in January. The month’s ideal for indoor activities, such as going to a nearby museum, searching for an engaging workshop to attend, or visiting religious objects.

The worst time to visit Jordan is in summer in the June–August period. If possible, avoid it because you’ll end up being more preoccupied with what the weather allows you to do rather than what you’re actually here to see and do.

Still, Jordan is so magical that even if you have to adjust your plans and be flexible, you’re bound to have an awesome stay.

Finally, whether you end up visiting Jordan when the weather’s pleasant, when the prices take a nosedive, or when the visitors are far and few between, you’re more than likely going to be enchanted by everything this country has to offer. Happy travels!