The short-lived autumn arrives in September—a lovely time to visit Petra as temperatures fall, rain remains totally absent, and you can still take advantage of off-season prices. The end of the month is especially kind for hikers, with neither too hot nor too cold Goldilocks temperatures. But visitors numbers begin to surge.
## Weather in Petra during September
As the month of September unfolds, the intense heat gradually begins to lessen, offering more comfortable conditions for exploration. However, it’s important to note that the average high temperature still reaches a very warm 88°F (31°C). Some days can even exceed this average, so be prepared for potentially higher temperatures. The lack of rain continues throughout September, mirroring the preceding months. Cloud cover is also scarce, resulting in virtually uninterrupted sunshine throughout the day. In fact, statistically, September 1st is, on average, the clearest day of the entire year in Petra.
The absence of rain leads to extremely low humidity levels. The air remains dry, which makes activities like hiking much more bearable, even during the warmer parts of the day. Despite this, if you are traveling with young children or elderly individuals, the early part of September may still present challenges due to the heat, proving to be uncomfortably hot for some. Extra care should be taken to protect these vulnerable groups.
To make the most of your visit, it’s advisable to start your day early. Aim to arrive as soon as the entrance to Petra opens at 6 am. This will allow you to take advantage of the cooler temperatures that prevail during the morning hours. Follow the example of the locals and consider the early afternoon as a time for rest and relaxation in the shade. A good option for this is the restaurant located towards the far end of the ancient city of Petra, conveniently situated near the entrance to the uphill hike that leads to the Monastery.
When packing for your trip to Petra in September, choose lightweight and loose-fitting clothing that provides protection from the intense sun. Don’t forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face and neck, along with sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes. Most importantly, ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated in the dry desert climate.
## Crowds and Costs in Petra during September
After the quieter mid-summer period, the number of visitors to Petra begins to increase sharply around mid-September. This marks the start of the autumn high season, when tourism picks up considerably. To avoid the largest crowds, it’s best to plan your visit to Petra as early in September as possible, as the number of tourists steadily rises towards the end of the month.
Along with the increase in visitor numbers, airfares, hotel prices, and the costs of tourist packages and excursions also tend to rise. By mid-September, the bargain prices of the low season are generally no longer available. Therefore, it is highly recommended to book your flights and reserve your accommodations well in advance, particularly if you are planning to travel during the latter half of September. This proactive approach can help you secure better prices and ensure availability.
## What to Do in Petra and Surrounding Areas
With the arrival of autumn’s relatively milder temperatures, the conditions become more favorable for undertaking serious long-distance hiking. Petra itself offers numerous trails for exploration, but if you are a dedicated hiker or seeking a more adventurous experience, consider tackling the three-day section of the renowned “Jordan” Trail that stretches from Dana to Petra. This 50-mile (85 km) trek has been recognized by National Geographic as one of the 15 best hikes in the world. The experience includes an overnight stay at the world-famous Feynan Ecolodge. Venturing off the beaten path allows you to enter the “Rose City” without the crowds of tour buses, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
If you have already experienced “Petra by Night,” now is the perfect time to check out the Henna Fantasia “Jordan Folklore Night,” a cultural show held at the Old Village Resort in Wadi Musa. This captivating performance features a local music and dance troupe, accompanied by an informative cultural video that highlights Jordanian history, traditions, and culture from the time of the Nabataeans to the present day. The show takes place nightly from 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm.
Speaking of Wadi Musa, you have a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly home-stays to luxurious resort hotels. However, for a more authentic and immersive experience, consider booking a tent at the Ammarin Bedouin Camp, located near Little Petra. This camp offers the opportunity to stay with a genuine Bedouin community, where you can participate in folkloric music and dance performances, as well as traditional activities such as bread-baking and Kohl production as part of their cultural programs. Nestled in a soft, sandy enclave sheltered by mountains, the camp serves as an ideal base for horse trekking or a camel caravan along the ancient Frankincense Route. From Little Petra, you can also hike to Petra itself along a scenic trail.
## September Events in Petra
**Petra Desert Marathon:** Challenge yourself to a desert run (or simply cheer on the runners) through a landscape steeped in ancient history. This annual event features both a full and a half-marathon, with participants traversing the ruined city and the open, lunar-like desert surroundings. Runners begin their journey at the Street of Facades and conclude their race in Wadi Musa.
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