December at a glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Weather | Cool: about 15 °C by day in Petra, cold nights in the desert |
| Rain | Possible, often in showers; Siq closed when flooding is a risk |
| Petra | Open 6:30 am to 5 pm; Petra by Night Sunday to Thursday |
| Christmas and year end | More visitors around 25 December and New Year |
| Dead Sea and Aqaba | Mild, good alternatives on rainy days |
Christmas and New Year's Eve
The Baptism Site, on the Jordan River, is an important pilgrimage place at Christmas and during the holidays: expect more visitors. Amman offers New Year's Eve dinners in hotels and restaurants; book early. Service dates and times are to be asked of your accommodation or the churches concerned: we have not confirmed them.
Petra in December
Days are short (opening 6:30 am, closing 5 pm): arrive at opening. In rain, stone becomes slippery and the Siq can close: follow site instructions. The Petra by Night evening runs Sunday to Thursday at 8:30 pm; the night is cold, bring a warm jacket. See how to visit Petra and the Jordan Pass.
What to do in December
- Wadi Rum: pleasant days, very cold nights; choose a bubble camp or a heated camp, see Wadi Rum, which tour.
- Dead Sea: milder than the highlands, see the Dead Sea.
- Aqaba: sea and diving, see Aqaba.
- Amman and Jerash between showers.
What to pack
Warm layers, a waterproof jacket, shoes with grip, hat and gloves for mornings and evenings. For the route, see Jordan in 7 days; for the year's calendar, Jordan weather month by month; for the next month, Jordan in January.
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good month for Jordan?
Yes for quiet outside the holidays and lower prices; allow for possible rain and short days.
Is there snow in Petra in December?
It is rare; it happens mostly in January, in some years.
Can I do Petra by Night in December?
Yes, Sunday to Thursday at 8:30 pm according to the official site; it is cold.
La rédaction Jordan Authority, 24/10/2026.
