Secrets of the Best Time to Visit Petra—Why Timing Matters More Than You Think!
The first time I visited Petra, I made the classic mistake—rushing through its most famous landmarks in just a few hours, barely scratching the surface. It felt like flipping through a book without actually reading it. I checked the famous landmarks in Jordan off my list and left, missing the magic that makes Petra more than just a collection of spectacular rock-cut facades.
On my second visit, I did it right. With time on my side, I ventured deeper into the history of Petra, Jordan, wandered beyond the crowds, and let the stories of the Bedouin people sink in. If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Petra, the answer isn’t just about the weather—it’s about when you’re ready to see Petra beyond the postcard views.
The Best Time to Visit Petra: When to Go for the Full Experience
Timing is everything when visiting Petra, Jordan. While the site is open year-round, your experience will depend on when you choose to go.
- Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November): These are hands down the best time to visit Petra, Jordan. The weather is pleasantly warm during the day, and the evenings are cool. The colors of Petra’s sandstone glow beautifully at sunrise and sunset, making it a photographer’s dream.
- Summer (June–August): Unless you love intense heat, summer isn’t ideal. The temperatures can climb past 40°C (104°F), and hiking in the midday sun is exhausting. However, if you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, you’ll find fewer crowds.
- Winter (December–February): The coldest season, with occasional rain and even snow. The upside? Petra is quiet, and you’ll have the iconic Treasury almost to yourself.
For an unforgettable experience, consider visiting during the Petra by Night event, where candlelit pathways and Bedouin music create an almost mystical atmosphere.
How to Get to Petra: Your Travel Guide
The journey to Petra is an adventure in itself, and knowing how to get to Petra is crucial for a smooth trip.
- From Amman to Petra: The drive from Amman to Petra takes about three hours. You can rent a car, join a guided tour, or take the JETT bus, which offers a budget-friendly option.
- From Aqaba to Petra: If you’re coming from Jordan’s Red Sea coast, the Aqaba to Petra route takes about two hours by car. Many travelers combine Aqaba and Petra in one itinerary.
- From Jerusalem to Petra: If you’re crossing from Israel, the route from Jerusalem to Petra requires a border crossing into Jordan at King Hussein Bridge or Wadi Araba. Expect the journey to take around six hours, depending on border delays.
The Hidden Trails and Cave Dwellings of Petra
Most visitors stick to the main Petra hiking trails, like the walk through the Siq to the Treasury, but Petra has many more paths worth exploring.
- The Monastery (Ad-Deir): A steep Petra hiking trail leads to one of the most spectacular landmarks, even larger than the Treasury. The climb is strenuous but rewarding.
- The High Place of Sacrifice: If you want breathtaking views over the valley, take the climb up this trail. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient altars where Nabataeans performed rituals.
- Petra’s Cave Dwellings: Beyond the grand structures, the Petra cave dwellings reveal how people lived here for centuries. Some caves were homes, others were tombs, and many are still used today by the local Bedouin population.
The History of Petra: More Than Just a Lost City
Where was Petra, and why is it important? This once-thriving metropolis was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, a powerful civilization that controlled trade routes across the Middle East over 2,000 years ago.
The Nabataeans were expert engineers, carving an entire city into sandstone cliffs while creating an advanced water system to survive in the arid desert. Petra flourished as a major trading hub, connecting Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean. However, after Roman annexation and natural disasters, the city declined and was eventually abandoned.
For centuries, Petra remained hidden from the world, known only to the local Bedouins. It wasn’t until 1812 that Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it, bringing the “Lost City” back into global awareness. Today, it’s not just one of the most famous landmarks in Jordan but a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The People of Petra: The Living Culture
While Petra is famous for its ruins, its living, breathing culture still thrives among the Bedouin people. These desert dwellers have called the region home for generations, long before tourists arrived.
Many of the Bedouin families lived in Petra’s caves until the government relocated them to the nearby village of Umm Sayhoun in the 1980s. Despite moving out of the caves, they still maintain many traditions of Bedouin culture in Jordan—raising goats, making jewelry, and guiding travelers through the ruins.
On my last visit, I met a man named Khalid, who, like many others, once lived in Petra’s cave dwellings. Over a cup of sweet tea, he told me about his childhood spent climbing the sandstone cliffs, learning the history of Petra through the stories of his ancestors. His knowledge of the city was far deeper than any guidebook could offer.
Marguerite van Geldermalsen, a New Zealander who famously married a Bedouin man and lived in Petra’s caves, captured this disappearing way of life in her book Married to a Bedouin. Meeting her in Petra, selling handcrafted jewelry, was a reminder that the people of Petra are just as fascinating as its monuments.
Final Thoughts: Why Petra is More Than Just a Day Trip
If you’re planning to visit, don’t rush through Petra in a single day. Take the time to hike its trails, explore beyond the Treasury, and talk to the people who still call it home. The best time to visit Petra isn’t just about the season—it’s about allowing yourself to experience the depth of its history, landscapes, and culture.
From the grand temples to the intimate conversations with Bedouins, Petra is a place that stays with you long after you leave. And if you do it right, you’ll want to come back—not just for the views, but for the stories waiting to be told.
FAQ: Best Time to Visit Petra & Travel Tips
1. What is the best time to visit Petra?
The best time to visit Petra is during spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. Summers can be unbearably hot, while winters bring chilly winds and occasional rain.
2. How do I get to Petra from Amman?
The best way to travel from Amman to Petra is by rental car, JETT bus, or private tour. The drive takes about three hours via the Desert Highway. Many travelers also take organized Petra travel guide tours for a hassle-free experience.
3. What are the best hikes in Petra?
Some of the best hikes in Petra include the Monastery Trail (Ad-Deir), the High Place of Sacrifice, and the Back Door Trail from Little Petra. Each offers breathtaking views and unique perspectives on Petra’s history.
4. What is the history of Petra, Jordan?
Petra, also known as the Rose City, was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom over 2,000 years ago. It was a vital trade hub before being abandoned and later rediscovered in 1812. Today, it’s one of the most famous landmarks in Jordan.
5. What should I wear when visiting Petra?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If visiting in winter, bring a jacket as it can get quite cold, especially in the early mornings and evenings.
6. Is Petra worth visiting at night?
Yes! The Petra by Night experience transforms the ancient city into a magical setting, with thousands of candles illuminating the Treasury and traditional Bedouin music filling the air. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Bedouin culture in Jordan.
7. How far is Petra from Jerusalem?
The distance from Jerusalem to Petra is approximately 150 miles (240 km), but travel time varies due to border crossings. Expect a six-hour journey, with most visitors crossing at the Wadi Araba or King Hussein Bridge border points.
