The Dead Sea And Around, Jordan
Spring (March to May): These months offer the most pleasant weather. Daily temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Rainfall is minimal, and the air feels comfortable for outdoor activities. This period sees clear skies and gentle breezes. Summer (June to August): Characterized by extreme heat. Daily high temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F) and can sometimes reach 45°C (113°F) or higher. Nights remain very warm. The sun is intense, and the air is dry. This season suits those tolerant of very high temperatures. Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, autumn brings a welcome return to moderate temperatures, typically between 28°C and 38°C (82°F to 100°F). The weather remains dry and sunny, yielding comfortable conditions for exploration.
Winter (December to February): Mild and pleasant. Daytime temperatures average around 20-25°C (68-77°F), with nights becoming cooler, sometimes dropping to 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rainfall is minimal and concentrated in these months, but heavy downpours can occur. The Dead Sea region does not experience monsoons or hurricanes. Main weather concerns involve extreme summer temperatures and flash floods.
High Season (March to May, September to November): Ideal weather for floating, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. Higher hotel prices and more crowded attractions. Advance booking highly recommended.
Shoulder Season (February, June, December): Fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. February offers pleasant temperatures. December is mild for a festive escape. June can be very hot but manageable for early morning/late afternoon dips.
Low Season (July to August): Lowest prices for accommodation and significantly fewer tourists. Extremely hot temperatures limit daytime outdoor activities. Floating requires careful timing, typically early mornings or late afternoons.
Summer temperatures exceed 40°C.
Use sunscreen, wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, and stay hydrated.
Sunburn and heatstroke are concerns. Plan activities for cooler hours.
Risk in wadis during heavy winter rains.
Check forecasts and advisories before entering wadis. Avoid low-lying areas during rain.
Wadi Mujib hiking season is April to October; closures occur with high water.
Optimizing your experience.
Best in spring/autumn mornings or late afternoons. Summer mornings/evenings.
Wadi Mujib typically April-October. Verify opening dates and conditions.
Floating in the Dead Sea is best enjoyed during spring and autumn mornings or late afternoons. You can float year-round, but summer temperatures require careful timing to avoid the most intense heat. Aim for before 10 AM or after 4 PM in summer.
Exploring nearby historical sites like Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Bethany Beyond the Jordan finds ideal temperatures in spring and autumn for walking and outdoor exploration. In summer, visits these sites in the early morning.
The Wadi Mujib nature reserve is open seasonally, typically from April to October, depending on water levels and safety conditions.
Spring (April-May) is often ideal for hiking before the peak summer heat sets in, offering cooler water temperatures in the canyons.
Always verify opening dates with the reserve before planning a trip.
Heed local warnings about flash floods and sudden water level changes.
Consider a guided tour for canyoning for safety and ease of access.
Jordan maintains various rules for different nationalities. Most visitors, including citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union, United Kingdom, and Australia, require a visa to enter Jordan.
Visa on Arrival: Many nationalities qualify for a visa upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) or at most land border crossings (verify specific border post rules). This is a single-entry visa, typically valid for two months. Jordan Pass: This option applies to eligible nationalities (those who would normally receive a visa on arrival). If you purchase the Jordan Pass before arrival and stay a minimum of three nights (four days) in Jordan, it waives the visa fee. It also includes entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum. This pass presents excellent value if you plan to visit multiple historical sites. Purchase and download the Jordan Pass online before your trip. Visa in Advance: If your nationality does not qualify for a visa on arrival or the Jordan Pass, you must obtain a visa from a Jordanian embassy or consulate in your home country before travel. The application typically involves forms, photos, and your passport.
Required Documentation: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Jordan. Ensure it has at least one blank page for stamps. Passport-sized photos are not typically needed for a visa on arrival, but carrying a few recent photos for unforeseen circumstances is a good practice. Immigration officers may request proof of onward/return ticket to confirm your departure. Having a copy of your flight itinerary available is wise. If you purchased the Jordan Pass, print a copy with its QR code and keep it accessible for presentation to immigration upon arrival. This waives the visa fee.
Visa Fee: For a single-entry visa obtained on arrival, the fee typically falls at 40 JOD (Jordanian Dinars). Multiple entry visas exist at a higher cost. Jordan Pass Waiver: The visa fee is waived upon presentation of the pass at immigration, assuming you meet the minimum stay of three nights. This can save money if you intend to visit attractions covered by the pass. Immigration Process: Upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport, follow signs for "Immigration" or "Passport Control." Present your passport and, if applicable, your Jordan Pass. You may complete a small arrival card. The process typically unfolds directly.
No specific permits generally apply for the Dead Sea area itself beyond the standard entry visa. Access to private resort beaches is included with your stay or a day pass. Certain protected areas or reserves, like the Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve, feature entry fees, payable at the reserve entrance for conservation and site management.
Jordan features no specific health-related entry requirements generally. Proof of vaccination for diseases like yellow fever becomes necessary only if you arrive from a country with a high risk of yellow fever transmission. Always verify the latest travel advisories from your government or a reputable travel health organization near your departure date, as regulations can shift.
Consult a travel health clinic or your doctor well in advance of your trip (ideally 4-6 weeks before departure) for personalized health advice. Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid often find recommendation for travelers to Jordan.
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella (chickenpox).
Commonly advised for many international travelers.
Especially if you plan to eat street food or venture into rural areas.
Consider if activities involve potential animal exposure, like caving or prolonged outdoor adventures.
Only if arriving from a country with a high risk of transmission.
Always check the latest visa requirements with the Jordanian embassy in your country or the official Jordan Tourism Board website before your trip, as rules can change.
For a balanced trip combining relaxation and sightseeing, target the shoulder seasons. You find favorable weather with fewer crowds and better prices.
