The best season to visit Jordan entirely depends on what you are looking for. If the idea of scorching hot temperatures and lounging by the pool every day sounds like a good plan, then summer may be the best time to go for you. If, however, you want to be able to explore the cities, walk around the sites and maybe even do a hike or two, then the intense heat of the summer is not the best season to visit.
Jordan is lucky in that it can be visited any time of year thanks to its diverse landscape and distinct seasons. When choosing a time to visit, it is important to take in key factors such as weather, nature, events and peak tourist times. We have provided a breakdown of all these factors to help you choose the best season to visit Jordan.
Summer in Jordan
In summer Jordan receives an astonishing average of 13 hours a day of sunshine. This sunshine usually comes hand in hand with blazing temperatures (around 40 degrees Celsius) between June and August. In summer the weather in Jordan is dry, the wind is warm and humidity is high.
For visitors who wish to explore the desert and coastal city of Aqaba, summer can often be too hot to truly explore these destinations. Amman is slightly cooler with average temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius which makes walking around slightly easier. Despite the heat, however, summer in Jordan is also the best time for events and festivals. The Jerash Festival for Culture and Art takes place in the city of Jerash at the end of July and showcases the best of Jordanian music and dance.
Autumn in Jordan
After the soaring temperatures of summer, things cool down a little in September making it a pleasant time to visit. Between September and October, the waters of the Red Sea hit temperatures of 26 degrees Celsius which entices beautiful tropical marine life.
Autumn is a great time for diving particularly around the city of Aqaba. This time of year is better for exploring the Jordan Valley or hiking along the Jordan Trail.
Winter in Jordan
In winter the weather in Jordan can drop quite dramatically and this time of year also receives the most rainfall. January is the coldest month with the average temperature in Amman dropping to around 8 degrees Celsius. For those exploring the cities of Amman and visiting Petra, winter is an OK time to visit as long as you pack warm clothes.
Weather in the Eastern Desert is much colder and more unpleasant but the coastal city of Aqaba benefits from warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.
Spring in Jordan
Springtime in Jordan begins in March and lasts until the end of May. Spring boasts cooler temperatures compared to the near approaching summer. The cooler weather of spring is an ideal time for hikers, especially because this time of year also sees an abundance of wildflowers and green rolling hills.
The major event that usually takes place towards the end of May and beginning of June is Ramadan where local Muslims give up food and drink from dawn till sunset. After sunset, the cities and towns come to life and restaurants and cafes stay open until late. To celebrate Ramadan the Citadel Hill in Amman hosts classical concerts amongst the city lights which is a spectacular experience.
The best seasons in Jordan
Jordan is a year-round destination but those who wish to explore the entire length of the country should visit in spring or autumn. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Jordan because they offer comfortable temperatures across the country which make it ideal for desert treks and adventurous hikes.
