Visiting Petra in October: All You Need to Know

When it comes to bucket list destinations within the bucket list destination that is Jordan itself, there’s nowhere quite like Petra. Heck, it was on my own travel bucket list, before my first visit in May 2016 – and I’ve been fortunate to visit multiple times.

As you plan your Jordan itinerary, you’ll probably want at least one day and night in Petra – and rightly so. That’s why it’s important to understand the weather in Petra each month and other important details of visiting during different times of the year. October is a great time to visit Petra, and the weather is a big part of the reason why it’s so popular.

Below you’ll find a complete but quick guide to visiting Petra in October. I’ve included details on the weather, what to pack, and what to expect during your visit.

Petra Weather in October

Petra weather in October is the absolute best to experience the Nabatean Kingdom. It’s generally warm and dry, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. Sunny days aren’t so popular in the forecast, and skies usually begin to get overcast by the third week in October. 

You’ll also notice the temperatures drop considerably. Petra’s high temperatures average 81°F (27°C), dipping to an average cold of 54°F (12°C) in October. A much-needed rest after a merciless summer!

Petra Open & Closing Hours

As October sits on the cusp of the winter season in Jordan, the visiting hours may change during the month. Summer hours are 6am to 6pm, whereas winter hours are 6am to 4pm – it’s important to confirm closing time when you enter the site.

Besides the opening times, I’ll give you an extra piece of information that’s crucial to make the most of your visit to Petra: the day’s length. 

Having an idea of how long the days are, especially in colder months, is very helpful to see how many attractions you can fit into a visit. On average, Petra in October still has long days – they have approximately 11 to 12 hours. As for the sunrise and sunset times, earlier in the month the sun rises at around 6 am and sets at around 5:30 pm. On the last days of October, the sun rises at around 6:30 am and sets at around 5:00 pm – this is why the opening hours for Petra change during the month.

My advice is always the same: arrive early in the morning. October in Petra is a popular time to visit, so getting early lets you avoid the crowds and have more time to explore especially as the opening hours shorten.

What to Pack for Petra in October

When packing for your visit to Petra in October, think layers! Bringing layers of light and comfortable clothing will allow you to play around with clothes depending on the weather.

Also, don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Petra is explored on foot, so you’ll be doing a lot of walking during your visit.

You may want to consider packing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s rays, which are still quite strong despite the shorter days and cooler temperatures.

Other Considerations for Visiting Petra in October

Before wrapping this up, I have a few more tips to help you plan your trip to Jordan in October:

• Start planning your trip early. October is considered the peak tourist season in Petra (in autumn), so it is important to book your accommodation in advance to ensure you get hotels and tours during your intended travel dates.
• Be prepared for crowds. Petra will be invaded by tons of travelers who want to admire the beauty of the Red Rose City – just like you! This said, start your day early if you don’t want to be endlessly waiting for that couple behind you to move to get your picture at the Treasury.  

In short, early is the name of the game when it comes to visiting Jordan or Petra in October. Have any questions about visiting Petra during this month, or planning the rest of your trip? Let me know in the comments!