January at a glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Weather | Cold: about 13 °C by day in Petra, nights near freezing in the desert |
| Petra | Open 6:30 am to 5 pm until 1 March 2027; few crowds |
| Rain | Possible, sometimes snow on the highlands; Siq closed when flooding is a risk |
| Dead Sea and Aqaba | Milder than the highlands, useful as a fallback |
| Ramadan | Expected to start around 8 February 2027, so after January |
Petra in January
Days are short (opening 6:30 am, closing 5 pm): arrive at opening to keep daylight for the Monastery. Rain makes stones slippery and the Siq can close when flooding is a risk: follow site instructions and keep a fallback plan. Dress in layers, with a raincoat, hat and gloves in the morning. See how to visit Petra and the Jordan Pass.
Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and the north
At Wadi Rum, days are bearable but nights are very cold: if you sleep there, choose a heated camp or a bubble camp. The Dead Sea and Aqaba stay pleasant and suit rainy days in Petra. In Amman and Jerash, bring a raincoat.
What to do in January
- Petra early in the morning for light and calm, with a rain plan B.
- Dead Sea to float in water milder than the highland air.
- Amman and its museums, see Amman in one day.
- A car or driver tour to adapt to the weather, see private driver in Jordan.
What to pack
Several warm layers, a waterproof jacket, shoes with grip, hat and gloves. For the route, see Jordan in 7 days and for the year's calendar Jordan weather month by month.
Frequently asked questions
Is January a good month for Jordan?
Yes for quiet and low prices, if you accept cold and possible rain.
Does it snow in Petra in January?
Sometimes, a few days in some years, which can only be predicted a few days ahead.
What are Petra's hours in January?
6:30 am to 5 pm until 1 March 2027, according to the official site.
La rédaction Jordan Authority, 24/10/2026.
