By December, there’s no doubt that winter has arrived. Jordan is at its coldest, the rainy season has begun, and even the first flurries of snow can blanket the land. However, on most days the sun shines brightly in a deep-blue crystal-clear sky. And this is the quiet low season, making a visit to Jordan’s most popular attraction all the more personal.
## Exploring Petra in December: A Comprehensive Guide
December in Petra offers a unique travel experience, presenting both challenges and unparalleled rewards. Understanding the weather, crowd dynamics, and available activities is key to planning a memorable trip. This guide provides in-depth information to help you make the most of your December visit to this ancient wonder.
### Weather in Petra During December
Prepare for a winter vacation in Petra by packing plenty of warm clothing and a reliable rainproof jacket. During December, temperatures in Petra tend to dip, with average highs reaching around 54°F (12°C) and lows falling to approximately 39°F (4°C). These temperatures are only marginally warmer than those experienced in January and February, which are typically the coldest months of the year in this region. A bitterly cold wind, often originating from the Eastern Desert, can sweep across the landscape, making some days feel close to freezing.
While Petra is not known for heavy snowfall, it is not entirely immune to a dusting of snow, especially as December transitions into January. The month of December also marks the beginning of the wet season, which lasts for about five months. Rainfall occurs on an average of three days during the month. Be prepared for the possibility of showers during your visit to Petra.
However, it’s crucial to remember that this potentially negative picture is not the whole story. Most days in Petra during December are gorgeously sunny. Even December 19, statistically the cloudiest day of the year, boasts clear or mostly clear skies two-thirds of the time. These sunny days provide ideal conditions for hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of Petra. The deep blue sky and the crystal-clear air offer exceptional opportunities for photography, allowing you to capture the beauty of Petra in its winter glory.
Therefore, when packing for your December trip to Petra, bring a combination of cold-weather clothing, including essential headwear to protect yourself from the cold. Also, pack some lighter summer clothing to allow you to layer your outfits and adapt flexibly to the ever-changing weather conditions. Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are an absolute must, given the amount of walking you’ll be doing while exploring the ancient city.
### Crowd Levels and Costs in Petra During December
As expected, the colder weather tends to deter many tourists from visiting Petra in December. While this doesn’t mean that Jordan’s most popular tourist destination will be completely deserted, it does translate to significantly fewer crowds compared to the peak seasons. If you dislike feeling like you’re part of a large, unmanageable group of tourists, December is an excellent time to plan your visit. You’ll have the opportunity for a much more intimate and personal experience of Petra, allowing you to truly appreciate its historical significance and natural beauty.
Furthermore, traveling to Petra in December can offer significant financial benefits. You can often take advantage of bargain prices on hotel accommodations in Wadi Musa, the town closest to Petra, as well as discounts on local tour excursions. This makes December an economically attractive time to explore Petra without compromising the quality of your experience.
### Activities and Experiences in Petra During December
As Christmas approaches, the atmosphere in Petra takes on a festive spirit, providing opportunities for unique shopping experiences. A significant portion of the Colonnaded Street, one of the main thoroughfares in Petra, is lined with stalls, collectively known as the “Nabatean Market.” This market recreates the atmosphere of what the area might have looked like 2,500 years ago, when Petra served as a bustling cosmopolitan market for vast camel caravans carrying frankincense and other precious goods destined for the wealthy markets of Rome.
At the Nabatean Market, you can purchase a variety of wares, including raw frankincense and chunks of myrrh, perfect for Christmas gifts. You’ll also find perfumes, lotions, Dead Sea salt products, handwoven Bedouin rugs, distinctive silver “tribal” jewelry, and the iconic *keffiyeh*, the traditional red-checkered Jordanian scarf. Remember that bargaining is expected and considered part of the fun of shopping in Petra. The local Bedul people, who operate many of the stalls, can be quite persistent with their sales efforts. If you’re not interested in buying, it’s important to be firm but respectful in your refusal.
The Petra Archaeological Park (PAP) is an expansive area covering 100 square miles (264 sq km) of rugged desert terrain. At its peak, around 2,000 years ago, the ancient walled city of Petra housed a population of approximately 30,000 people. The numerous archaeological sites within the park are widely dispersed, and signage is still a work in progress. Therefore, even if you hire a qualified guide, it’s highly recommended to have a good map of the area. The Visitor Center may not always have its free Petra map available. However, tourist shops in Wadi Musa sell the Royal Jordanian Geographic Centre’s contoured 1:5000 scale Map of Petra, which is particularly useful for hikers.
After spending a chilly winter day exploring the historical sites of Petra, treat yourself to a rejuvenating steam bath and massage. Wadi Musa offers several *hammams* (traditional “Turkish Baths”) where you can relax and unwind. The experience typically begins with relaxing in the steam room to open your pores and promote deep breathing. Then, you’ll lie on a heated stone slab for blissful relaxation before plunging into a refreshing cold pool. The experience culminates with a soothing massage and a vigorous body scrub, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
### December Events in Petra
**Christmas Day**: Christmas is recognized as an official public holiday in Jordan. Both Christians and Muslims participate in the holiday spirit. Even some establishments in Wadi Musa embrace the festive mood and are adorned with Christmas decorations, adding to the unique ambiance of visiting Petra in December.
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