Visiting Petra in November: All You Need to Know

As the warm embrace of autumn lingers in the air, the ancient city of Petra unveils a captivating side of its beauty that invites travelers to experience its wonders in the enchanting month of November. Visiting Petra during this time offers the perfect combination of pleasant temperatures and a serene atmosphere, allowing you to explore its iconic landmarks, awe-inspiring architecture, and intricate history at a leisurely pace.

The rose-hued city, nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of the Jordanian desert, radiates an ethereal charm that comes alive under the gentle autumn sun, revealing the grandeur of the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs in their full glory.

Embark on a journey through Petra in November, and let the magic of this ancient world create unforgettable memories that will echo through the sands of time. Here’s what you need to know to visit Petra during the transition season of November

Petra Weather in November

November is officially winter in Petra (and all of Jordan), and you can feel it everywhere. We could say that the Petra weather in November is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°) to 68°F (20°C). If you aren’t used to low temperatures, you’ll definitely feel the cold, especially overnight. 

While the days can still be warm, especially in the early part of the month, the evenings can get cooler. Moreover, temperatures start to drop sharply as the month progresses. The good news is that there’s no rain although you can expect a few showers here and there. 

Petra Open & Closing Hours

Petra varies its opening hours depending on the season. In November in Petra, the site opens at 6:00 am and closes at 4:00 pm as it already is the winter season. 

Besides knowing the opening hours, you can also benefit from knowing the day’s length during November. This will allow you to see how much of the ancient city you can explore in a day before the site closes. The length of daylight in Petra in November is approximately between 10 to 11 hours per day, with the sun generally rising around 6:00 am to 6:30 am and setting around 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm.

Roughly speaking, you’ll have just the right amount of time to explore Petra provided you wake up as early as possible and arrive at the visitor center by 6 am. 

Don’t forget that the Petra by Night event occurs all year long – including November – on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights at 8:30 pm.

What to Pack for Petra in November

Bringing the right clothing and gear is crucial if you want to have an enjoyable time in Petra in November. Here are some items that can’t be missing from your suitcase:

1. Layered Clothing: As the weather can vary throughout the day, it’s recommended to bring layered clothing that can be easily added or removed as needed. During the day, you may need light and breathable clothing, such as T-shirts and shorts. In the evenings, a light jacket or sweater may be necessary as temperatures can drop.
2. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Exploring Petra requires a lot of walking, so be sure to bring comfortable, sturdy shoes for navigating the rocky terrain. 
3. Sun Protection: Despite being more wintery (by Jordan standards), you still need to plan ahead to protect yourself from the sun. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses; you could also opt for a traditional keffiyeh to cover up during your hikes in Jordan.

Other Considerations for Visiting Petra in November 

In case you’re considering November to visit Petra, here are some considerations worth having in mind when you’re planning your trip. 

Enjoy fewer crowds: November is part of the shoulder season in Petra, which means fewer crowds compared to the peak season. However, it’s still a popular time to visit, so be prepared for some crowds, especially at popular sites like the Treasury and the Monastery. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid some of the crowds. 

Plan for less time to enjoy your visit: The days are shorter in November, with daylight hours ranging from around 6:30 am to 4:30 pm. Therefore, it’s important to plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time there. Also, keep in mind that some of the attractions, such as the Monastery, require a significant amount of walking and climbing, so it may take your longer if you aren’t that used to physical activity.

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