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Weather Guide

Ma'an Weather & Climate Guide 2025

Plan your trip with detailed weather information and seasonal tips for Ma'an.

Ma'an Governorate is Jordan's largest governorate by area, encompassing the legendary rose-red city of Petra, the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the historic market town of Ma'an city. This southern region is home to some of the ancient world's most extraordinary monuments, carved by the Nabataean civilization over two millennia ago. From rugged desert canyons to Crusader-era castles, Ma'an offers an unparalleled journey through layers of human history set against spectacular natural scenery.

Best Time to Visit

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Best Months

March-May and September-November

Spring brings mild temperatures (15-25°C), occasional wildflowers in the hills, and ideal hiking conditions. Autumn offers similar temperatures with fewer crowds than spring and excellent light for photography.

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Months to Avoid

July-August

Midsummer temperatures in Ma'an can exceed 38°C with intense UV radiation, making long Petra hikes very challenging and uncomfortable. The site is also at peak capacity with school holiday crowds.

Climate Overview

Ma'an Governorate has a hot desert climate (BWh) — extremely hot, dry summers and mild winters with occasional cold snaps and rare snow in the highest areas around Shoubak and Dana. The region receives less than 100mm of rainfall annually, mostly between November and March. Wadi Rum in the south is even hotter and drier. The Dana-Shoubak highland areas are cooler year-round due to their elevation (1,000-1,500m).

Month-by-Month Guide

What to expect each month of the year.

Jan

8°C/46°F (avg)
Cold and quiet. Petra is atmospheric with almost no crowds. Possible rain and frost. Shoubak may have snow.

Feb

10°C/50°F (avg)
Still cold, slight warming. Some almond blossoms appear in the hills. Last month of low season.

Mar

15°C/59°F (avg)
Spring arrives. Wildflowers and green hillsides. Ideal hiking temperatures. Crowds start building.

Apr

20°C/68°F (avg)
Peak spring. Perfect temperatures, stunning light, wildflowers in Dana Reserve. Busiest month.

May

25°C/77°F (avg)
Warming rapidly. Still excellent but can feel hot by afternoon. Book ahead.

Jun

29°C/84°F (avg)
Hot and dry. Early morning Petra visits essential. Fewer Western tourists, more regional visitors.

Jul

32°C/90°F (avg)
Very hot. Early morning is the only comfortable time for Petra walks. Evenings are pleasant.

Aug

32°C/90°F (avg)
Hottest month. Intense UV. Petra by Night is very popular. Dana highlands more comfortable.

Sep

28°C/82°F (avg)
Warm but beginning to cool. Good balance of weather and thinner crowds than spring.

Oct

22°C/72°F (avg)
Excellent conditions. Ideal hiking temperatures, beautiful golden light, moderate crowds.

Nov

16°C/61°F (avg)
Cool and quiet. Good value accommodation. Occasional rain. A hidden gem month for Petra.

Dec

10°C/50°F (avg)
Cold. Peaceful and uncrowded Petra. Wrap up warm. Lowest prices of the year.
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Seasonal Planning Guide

Complete weather data, packing lists by season, and event calendars.

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Seasonal Breakdown

Detailed information for each season.

🌸 Spring

Mar-May

The finest season for visiting Ma'an. Temperatures are warm but not overwhelming (15-28°C at Petra level), wildflowers briefly colour the hillsides, and trails are dry and safe. Visibility is excellent for photography.

Tips: Book accommodation 2-3 months ahead — peak tourist season. Start Petra walks at dawn. Afternoon temperatures can still be warm — carry water.

☀️ Summer

Jun-Aug

Intense heat dominates the region, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C in Petra and 40°C in lower areas toward Ma'an city. The heat dissipates significantly after sunset, and evenings are pleasant. Dana's highland (1,400m) remains more comfortable.

Tips: Visit Petra in the very early morning (6-9 AM) before heat peaks. Petra by Night is particularly popular in summer. Carry 3+ litres of water. Take afternoon rest breaks.

🍂 Fall

Sep-Nov

An excellent time to visit with warm but manageable temperatures (20-32°C in September, dropping to 12-20°C in November). Crowds thin significantly from October onward, and hotel prices soften. The light is warm and golden for photography.

Tips: October and November are excellent — combine comfortable temperatures with lower prices and fewer crowds. Bring light layers for evenings.

❄️ Winter

Dec-Feb

Winter brings cool to cold conditions throughout Ma'an. Petra can be cold (2-12°C) and occasionally rainy. Shoubak and Dana can receive snow in January-February. The site is quiet, atmospheric, and deeply peaceful in winter.

Tips: Dress in warm layers — it can be genuinely cold inside Petra's shadowed canyons in winter. Rain is possible; flash floods in wadis after heavy rain. Prices are at their lowest.

What to Pack

Seasonal packing recommendations.

Year-Round Essentials

  • Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees)
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • Light scarf or shawl (for religious sites)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Power adapter
  • Basic first aid kit

Hot Weather Additions

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics
  • Extra sun protection
  • Cooling towel
  • Light colors to reflect heat
  • Sandals with back straps

Cool Weather Additions

  • Warm layers (fleece, sweater)
  • Light jacket or coat
  • Rain gear (umbrella, waterproof jacket)
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Warm accessories (if winter)

Events & Crowd Levels

Plan around busy periods and special events.

🔴 High Season

March-May (peak), school holiday periods in July-August

Higher prices, advance booking essential, crowded attractions.

🟡 Shoulder Season

September-October, June

Good balance of weather and crowds. Reasonable prices.

🟢 Low Season

November-February

Best deals, fewer tourists. Some services may be limited.

Major Events & Holidays

March-April
Petra Festival of Music & Culture

Annual festival featuring international and Arab music performances inside the Petra archaeological site

March-May
Jordan Spring Festival

National event coinciding with the wildflower season, with hiking events and cultural activities across Jordan

Variable (Islamic calendar)
Ramadan

Month of fasting — restaurants close during daylight hours but evening iftars create a wonderful community atmosphere

Variable (Islamic calendar)
Eid al-Fitr

End of Ramadan celebration — 3-day public holiday with family gatherings throughout Ma'an Governorate

November
Jordan Rally

International off-road rally passing through southern Jordan including Ma'an Governorate

Plan Your Perfect Ma'an Trip

Get our complete seasonal guide with detailed packing lists, event calendars, and month-by-month planning tips.

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