JORDAN
Jordan reveals its quiet soul beyond summer’s blaze, from rose-red canyons kissed by winter sun to starry desert camps warmed by Bedouin fires. This guide unlocks the seasons for solitude, lower costs, and authentic encounters.
Smart Travel Calendar
Why Choose Jordan Off-Season?
Epic ruins without the shuffle: Walk Petra’s Siq with only the echoes of history, not tour groups.
Desert stargazing in silence: Enjoy Wadi Rum’s red sands when Bedouin camps feel private.
Floating higher for less: The Dead Sea’s healing waters cost half what peak season demands.
No sweating through history: Explore Jerash and Karak Castle in cool, breathable air.
Hotel perks become real: Resort upgrades and poolside loungers appear when crowds evaporate.
Local life, not tourist traps: Share tea with shopkeepers who finally have time to talk.
Shoulder Season
Your Smartest Windows
March – early April (before Easter week crowds)
October – November (post-summer heat)
Avoid: Easter Week (Holy Week) and first two weeks of April when European spring break packs Petra.
What the Sky Does
Days: 22–28°C (72–82°F) | Nights: 10–15°C (50–59°F)
March can bring brief desert rains – pack a light jacket for sudden showers
October sun is golden and forgiving – perfect for all-day hiking
Humidity stays low – no sticky heat, just dry, pleasant air
How Empty It Feels
40–50% fewer tourists vs. March–May and October peaks
Petra’s main trail: peaceful mornings, no donkey gridlock
Dead Sea resorts: loungers available at any hour
Wadi Rum: small-group camps feel like private escapes
What You’ll Save
Flights: 20–30% | Hotels: 30–40% vs. spring/autumn peaks
Car rentals: 25% less – more availability at lower rates
Attraction tickets: no queues, but prices fixed – time saved is the real win
Dining: local restaurants offer lunch specials again
The Secret Perk
Wildflower explosion in March: Northern Jordan turns green and purple with orchids
Olive harvest season (October) – join locals picking under golden light
Photography: soft autumn light paints Petra’s stones in deep rose hues
Bedouin hospitality blooms – empty camps mean longer tea ceremonies
The Tiny Trade-Off
Desert nights require layers – pack fleece for after sunset
Limited shade in canyons – midday still warm, but manageable
Some Dead Sea pools close for maintenance in November
Ramadan timing check – if it overlaps, lunch spots close until sunset
Smart Traveler Tip
Mid-October to mid-November is the absolute sweet spot: settled weather, lowest shoulder prices
Book Wadi Rum 2 weeks ahead – best camps fill even in shoulder
Start Petra at 6:30 a.m. for 1 hour of near-solitude before crowds trickle in
Deep Off-Season
Your Smartest Windows
December – February (except Dec 20–Jan 5)
Avoid: December 20 – January 5 (Christmas & New Year at Dead Sea/Petra) and Eid al-Adha (dates shift – prices spike nationwide).
What the Sky Does
Winter: 8–14°C (46–57°F) days | 1–5°C (34–41°F) nights – rain and rare snow in Amman
Night desert winter temps can hit 0°C (32°F) – real Bedouin fireside season
Humidity near zero – dry cold and dry heat both feel sharper
How Empty It Feels
60–70% fewer tourists vs. peak months
Petra: you’ll share the Treasury with 10 people instead of 200
Jordan Museum (Amman): often nearly private viewings
Small towns like Madaba – locals outnumber visitors 50:1
What You’ll Save
50–60% vs. peak season overall trip cost
Flights: 40–50% cheaper (except Christmas week)
Hotels: 50–60% – five-star Dead Sea resorts for three-star prices
Car rental: 40% – unlimited mileage deals appear
The Secret Perk
Winter Bedouin fire nights – storytelling, hot sage tea, and Orion over the desert
Dana Biosphere Reserve – winter bird migration (rare finches and eagles)
Ma’in Hot Springs – steamy waterfalls feel divine in cold air
Local hammams (Amman) – genuine bathhouse culture without tourists
Falafel shops have no queues – taste Amman like a local
The Tiny Trade-Off
Dead Sea beach clubs reduce hours or close some outdoor pools
Nightlife in Aqaba – beach bars roll up carpets by 10 p.m.
Desert camp dinner buffets smaller – still plenty, but less lavish
Daylight: only 10 hours (sunset ~4:30 p.m.) in December
Smart Traveler Tip
January is the quietest month – crowds vanish, but pack a serious coat
Book a heated Wadi Rum camp – look for “insulated tents” or “shared lounge with stove”
Start February booking for March hikes – shoulder season prices are rising by then
For mild winter escape: head to Aqaba (18°C/64°F in January) while Amman freezes
FAQs
- Is Jordan A Good Destination During The Off-Season?
Yes, absolutely. By choosing to travel outside the peak summer months, you can exploit travel seasonality to enjoy Jordan’s legendary sites without the intense heat or massive crowds. You will find that hotel rates and tour packages often drop by 25% to 40% compared to the busy spring and autumn months.
However, the deep off-season (November through February) brings cooler weather and occasional rain, which is the main drawback. While this makes desert hiking much more comfortable, you might need a jacket for the evenings in the canyons, and a few minor desert tracks could become muddy.
- How Bad Is The Weather For Off-Season Travel In Jordan?
It is more manageable than you think. While the peak summer heat is gone, the off-season offers crisp, fresh air perfect for exploring ancient ruins and nature reserves. You will sleep better in the desert camps because the temperatures are cool rather than scorching, making the experience far more pleasant for hiking.
The downside is the unpredictability. You might encounter strong winds in the southern deserts or rain showers that can briefly close dirt roads to remote wadis. Think of it as trading the guarantee of 100°F heat for a chance of 55°F breezes and dramatic cloudy skies.
- Will I Save Money On A Jordan Trip Outside Peak Season?
Yes, significantly. Traveling during the deep off-season (January and February) is the ultimate way to exploit travel seasonality here. You will routinely see accommodation discounts of 30% to 50% off peak rates, and many local tour operators offer substantial deals to fill their vehicles during the quieter weeks.
The catch is that some budget transport options, like shared shuttles to minor historical sites, run less frequently. You will save a lot of money on hotels and car rentals, but you may need to pay a bit more for a private driver to reach very specific remote locations on your own schedule.
- Can I Still Travel Around Jordan Easily During The Off-Season?
Yes, with minor flexibility. The main paved highways connecting the northern to southern regions remain fully open and safe year-round. You can still book 4x4 desert adventures, though you will enjoy them with 80% fewer people on the dunes, which is a huge win for photography and peace.
The specific drawback is that sudden winter storms can occasionally delay flights or cause short-term closures on high-altitude roads for a few hours. To exploit travel seasonality here successfully, just add a 24-hour buffer to your schedule for flexibility, and you will have a smooth, crowd-free journey.
- Why Should I Choose The Shoulder Season Of March Or October Instead Of Deep Winter?
Because you get the absolute best of both worlds. In March (spring shoulder) or October (autumn shoulder), you will enjoy perfect daytime temperatures of 22-26°C (72-79°F), wildflower blooms in the canyons, and still find discounts of 25% to 35% on camping in Wadi Rum.
You can truly "Exploit Travel Seasonality" here by hiking the Siq in comfortable jeans, sleeping under the stars in a Bedouin camp without freezing, and avoiding both the summer scorch and the winter rain. This is the sweet spot for travelers who want value without any weather compromises.
Explore Jordan
Essential Trip Information
Visa and Entry Requirements
Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival (typically US$56, valid 30 days).
Check official requirements: Jordan E-Gate Portal.
Passport validity: Must extend 6 months beyond stay.
Jordan Pass (US$70–100) covers visa fees and entry to Petra + 40+ sites if staying ≥3 nights. Highly recommended.
Currency
Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is the official currency.
Best ways to handle currency:
- Before your trip: Exchange a small amount of money at home, as the Jordanian Dinar is not commonly available in international markets.
- During your trip: ATMs are readily available in major cities and offer competitive exchange rates. Major credit/debit cards are accepted in urban areas, but it’s a good idea to carry some JOD for smaller shops and in more remote areas.
- What to avoid: Avoid exchanging money at airports or in smaller kiosks, as the rates are often unfavorable.
Language
Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Helpful phrases: “Shukran” (Thank you), “Min fadlak” (Please), “Ayna…?” (Where is…?)
Safety & Security
Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the region, but it is always advisable to exercise caution, especially in less populated areas.
Avoid discussing sensitive political issues and be respectful of local customs.
Emergency number: 911
Health & Insurance
Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required, but it is recommended to have routine vaccines up to date.
Travel Insurance is recommended due to the cost of healthcare.
Tap water is safe to drink in most cities, but bottled water is often preferred by travelers.
Transportation
Taxi: Taxis are affordable but make sure to agree on a fare or ask the driver to use the meter.
Buses: Public buses are reliable in major cities, but intercity buses may not always be punctual.
Car Rentals: Available for self-drive tours, but keep in mind that traffic in Amman can be chaotic.
Walking: Many tourist sites are within walking distance of each other, particularly in cities like Petra and Amman.
Price Level
Jordan is relatively affordable, with a range of prices to suit different budgets.
Accommodation
Budget: Hostels or budget hotels ($40–70 per night)
Mid-range: 3-star hotels ($80–120 per night)
Luxury: 4-5 star hotels ($150+/night)
Food
Street food: Falafel, shawarma ($3–5)
Casual dining: Restaurants ($10–20)
Fine dining: ($30–50)
Drinks
Coffee/Tea: $1–3
Local beer: $3–5
Transportation
Taxi: $5–15 for short trips
Uber: Available in larger cities, with similar pricing to taxis
Buses: Public buses are available, though they may not be as frequent or reliable in rural areas.
Money-Saving Tips
Visit free sites like the Roman Theater in Amman and the Jordan Museum.
Buy a Jordan Pass to save money on entrance fees to major attractions.
Consider using local buses for travel within cities, which can be significantly cheaper than taxis.
Planning Your Trip
Local Customs And Etiquette
Politics: Jordan is a stable country, but it’s wise to avoid discussions about politics.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in Jordan; around 10–15% at restaurants, and US$1–2 per bag for hotel staff.
Dress Code: In more conservative areas, especially outside of major cities, modest clothing is recommended (covering shoulders and knees). In Amman and Aqaba, casual dress is fine.
Museum Behavior: Quiet and respectful, especially when visiting religious or historical sites like Petra or the Dead Sea.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation:
- Budget: US$20–50/night (hostels, guesthouses).
- Mid-range: US$50–150/night (3–4 star hotels).
- Luxury: US$200+/night (high-end resorts, boutique hotels).
Food:
- Street food: US$3–8 (falafel, hummus).
- Casual meal: US$10–20 (restaurants offering local dishes like mansaf).
- Fine dining: US$30+.
Transport:
- Public buses: US$1–5 for city transport.
- Taxis: US$5–15 for short trips in the city.
- Car rentals: US$30–50/day.
Activities:
- Petra Entrance Fee: US$70 (1 day), US$120 (2 days).
- Dead Sea resort day pass: US$20–50.
Daily Budget:
- Budget: US$50–80 (hostels, street food, public transport).
- Mid-range: US$100–200 (3-star hotels, sit-down meals, attractions).
- Luxury: US$250+ (luxury stays, fine dining, private tours).
Internet & Mobile
Free Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, cafes, and public spaces in Amman, Petra, and Aqaba.
SIM Cards: Available at airports or convenience stores (US$10–20 for 5GB data). Zain and Orange are the main providers.
eSIMs: Supported by major providers (Airalo, Verizon).
Travel Insurance
Recommended for: Medical coverage, trip delays, and activities like desert tours or hiking.
U.S. Healthcare: Health insurance is expensive for U.S. citizens; ensure your plan covers emergencies while abroad.
Adventure Activities: Ensure your travel insurance covers adventure activities, as some policies exclude high-risk activities like camel riding or desert trekking.
Accomodation Options
Jordan has a variety of accommodation options to fit different budgets, from luxury resorts by the Dead Sea to budget-friendly hostels.
Luxury:
- Dead Sea Resorts: Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea.
- Desert Camp: Wadi Rum Night Luxury Camp.
Mid-range:
- Hotels: Amman West Hotel, Petra Moon Hotel (Petra).
- Boutique Hotels: The Olive Branch Hotel (Amman), La Maison Hotel (Aqaba).
Budget:
- Guesthouses: US$20–50/night (in cities like Amman and Petra).
- Hostels: The Hostel (Amman), Petra Hostel (Petra).
Unique Stays:
- Desert Camps: Wadi Rum Desert Camp.
- Bedouin-style tents in Wadi Rum offer a unique cultural experience.
Tip: Book Dead Sea resorts early during peak season (October–April) as they are very popular.
Getting Around
Jordan offers a range of transportation options, but renting a car or using local taxis is common for tourists.
Taxis:
- Fares are reasonable (US$5–15 for short trips). Always agree on the price beforehand or use a meter.
Buses:
- Public buses are cheap (US$1–5) but may not be the most reliable. For longer trips, intercity buses (e.g., Amman–Aqaba) are more comfortable.
Car Rentals:
- Rent a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas like Wadi Rum or Petra (US$30–50/day).
- Roads are generally good, but driving in Amman can be chaotic. It’s advisable to hire a local guide or driver for longer trips.
Domestic Flights:
- Limited, but possible between Amman and Aqaba (US$50–80) for those on a tight schedule.
Bold Recommendation: Rent a car for flexibility, especially if you’re visiting multiple sites, and use taxis for short trips within cities.