Visiting Petra in April: All You Need to Know

Want to visit one of the world’s great wonders, the rose city of Petra in Jordan? This is definitely a bucket list destination – and one that I almost feel a trip to Jordan is incomplete without seeing.

Like March, April is one of the most popular months to visit Jordan, and this means there are some important considerations when planning a trip to Petra during this month. As the weather continues to improve, there are also some pro-tips you can learn from my experience to help you have an unforgettable experience at this bucket list destination.

Below you’ll find a complete but quick guide to visiting Petra in April. I’ve included details on the weather, what to pack, and what to expect during your visit. If you have any questions, let me know in the comments so I can help you have an unforgettable time.

Petra Weather in April

If there’s one word I’d use to describe Petra in April, it would be delightful. It’s not too hot, it’s not too cold, days have enough hours for you to explore the site… 

Petra weather in April is a bit warmer, but nothing too excessive. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging between 52°F (11°C) and 72°F (22°C) – the lows occur at night and early in the morning. Rain is virtually non-existent from the forecast, so you can leave your umbrella at home.

Petra Open & Closing Hours

One of the perks of visiting Petra in April is that the archaeological site has adjusted to its summer opening hours. During the summer, Petra is open from 6 am to 6 pm – two more hours than in the winter. 

The average length of the day is 12 hours in April in Petra (hence the hours the site is open to daytime visitors). On the first day of April, the sun rises at 6:27am and sets at 6:56pm; on the last day of April, the sun rises at 5:55 am and sets at 7:15 pm.  All this to say, you’ll have plenty of daylight to enjoy all that Petra has to offer, in April.

Even though Petra is open for two more hours in spring, it doesn’t mean that you can lay back and start your day later. I always repeat the same advice no matter which month you’re planning to visit: in Petra, the earlier you wake up, the better.  Exploring the Nabatean Kingdom requires a lot of walking – the map you get in the Visitor’s Center looks like a labyrinth full of hiking trails. Wake up early and win some time to explore at your own pace and even take some breaks. 

Oh, don’t forget about Petra By Night, which occurs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights at 8:30pm all year long. 

What to Pack for Petra in April

Another benefit of visiting Petra in April is that your suitcase will weigh a lot less (assuming you don’t pack anything extra!). My advice is that you pack mostly light summer clothing; my Jordan packing list covers the essentials. Bring a set of t-shirts and a pair of comfortable pants. Girls can wear leggings, too. Or, you can bring hiking trousers if you own a pair. Sturdy shoes are essential too, of course, so your feet are safe and comfy. 

Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and your pair of sunglasses, too. You’ll be doing a lot of walking under the sun and with very few shaded stops in Petra, you’ll want plenty of sun protection.

Lastly, throw in a jacket to wear when you do the Petra by Night experience – like in all desert climates, it gets chilly once the sun goes down and an extra layer will be welcome.

Other Considerations for Visiting Petra in April

Wake up early! I know, I’ve said it already. But here’s the thing: April is a very popular month to visit Jordan, and the crowds have already invaded Petra. If you want to avoid going against a sea of people to see The Treasury or wait 15 minutes to get a photo without a couple at the back, start your day early. 

Book things early. Relatively speaking, April is an expensive month (as it’s more popular with visitors), and it’s hard to find good deals. If you buy your flight tickets and book your hotel far in advance, you’ll get much better prices. 

In 2023, Ramadan falls in April in Jordan. A holy month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan involves a series of religious practices that affect the country’s and people’s lives. Travelers are not supposed to engage in any of these practices, but there are some considerations you’ll need to take into account. 

Have any other questions about visiting Petra in April? Let me know in the comments below!