Best Places to Visit in Jordan in March

Summary: Jordan in March is ideal for exploring the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, the ancient architecture of Petra, and the historical depths of the Dead Sea. The mild air temperatures permit extensive walking through archaeological sites before the intense heat of the later months begins to set in.

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Jordan in March: at a glance

• Petra: The lower temperatures provide the necessary comfort for walking long distances through the Siq and climbing towards the Monastery.

• Wadi Rum: The landscape is suitable for guided excursions and camping, as the desert nights remain crisp but manageable.

• The Dead Sea: This region offers a low-lying warmth that allows for relaxing at the shoreline without the excessive heat of mid-summer.

• Jerash: The expansive ruins are best traversed in the temperate conditions of this month, which prevent the fatigue of the high-summer sun.

Is March a good time to visit Jordan?

March is one of the most effective months to visit Jordan. The country transitions from the chill of winter into a period of moderate warmth, making it particularly well-suited for travellers whose priority is visiting archaeological sites on foot.

Because much of the tourism in Jordan relies on walking through rocky canyons, climbing staircases carved into mountains, or traversing exposed desert plains, the absence of extreme heat is a significant advantage. While some evenings in the highlands or the desert can be cool, the days are generally bright and pleasant, facilitating longer periods of sightseeing.

Weather in Jordan in March

The climate in Jordan during March is defined by regional variation. The highlands, including Amman, experience cool to moderate air, with the potential for sudden, sharp changes in conditions.

Moving downwards toward the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, the air becomes noticeably warmer, often providing a sheltered, semi-tropical environment. In the eastern and southern deserts, the days are sunny and comfortable for movement, but the drop in temperature after sunset is pronounced.

Rainfall is possible across the country, particularly early in the month, though it rarely persists long enough to disrupt travel plans significantly.

Best places to visit in Jordan in March

1. Petra

The ancient Nabataean city remains the primary draw for any visitor to the country. In March, the long walk from the entrance through the Siq—a narrow gorge flanked by towering cliffs—is far more comfortable than later in the year.

Once you reach the Treasury and the broader valley beyond, you can explore the various tombs and the long, arduous climb to the Monastery without the risk of heat exhaustion. The clear, bright light is particularly effective for observing the varying shades of rose and ochre in the sandstone facades.

Given the scale of the site, having the physical stamina to walk all day is essential, and the mild climate ensures you can dedicate as much time as necessary to the hidden corners of the valley.

2. Wadi Rum

This protected desert wilderness is defined by its dramatic granite and sandstone mountains, vast red dunes, and narrow canyons. March offers the most balanced conditions for experiencing the desert.

You can spend the day in an open-top vehicle or on a walking tour, observing the natural rock bridges and petroglyphs, without being overwhelmed by the sun. As night falls, the temperature drops rapidly, creating a clear sky perfect for stargazing.

Choosing to stay in a permanent desert camp allows you to experience the silence of the landscape, though you should be prepared for the chill that arrives once the sun disappears behind the crags.

3. The Dead Sea

Positioned at the lowest point on Earth, this region acts as a natural basin, trapping warmth. In March, the air is pleasantly warm rather than scorching, making it an excellent time to visit the salt-crusted shoreline.

You can spend time floating in the mineral-rich water or applying the local mud, which remains a staple activity of the area. Because the region is much lower in altitude than the rest of the country, it serves as a relaxing conclusion to a journey that likely involved significant physical activity in the mountains or deserts.

The surrounding landscape is arid and barren, providing a stark contrast to the greenery found in the northern parts of the country.

4. Jerash

Often cited as one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the region, Jerash offers an expansive layout of colonnaded streets, temples, and theatres. Visiting in March allows you to move between the South Theatre and the Temple of Artemis without the glare and heat that radiates off the stone paving during the summer months.

The site is large and requires hours of dedicated walking to appreciate the detail in the masonry and the sheer scale of the civic planning. Because it is located in the north, the surrounding hills are often green during this period, providing a softer backdrop to the ruins than the dusty, sun-bleached look they take on later in the year.

5. Amman

The capital city is built across various hills, and March provides the temperate conditions needed to walk between its distinct neighbourhoods. You can explore the Citadel, which offers a vantage point over the city, and the Roman Theatre, both of which involve significant changes in elevation.

The city is a hub for understanding the blend of modern life and historical layers, with local markets and coffee houses providing a place to rest between sightseeing. While the traffic can be dense, the pleasant air makes the climb to the various peaks of the city manageable, allowing you to move through the central districts on foot to better understand the urban layout.

6. Madaba

Known for its collection of intricate Byzantine-era floor mosaics, Madaba is a quieter, more focused destination than the larger cities. The most famous mosaic, a large map of the Holy Land, is located within a church that stays cool and dark, offering a respite from the midday sun.

Walking through the town reveals a collection of historic houses and smaller workshops. It is a manageable destination that works well as a base for exploring the surrounding rural areas.

The moderate March weather makes it easy to walk between the various religious and archaeological sites tucked into the town’s narrow streets, which might feel more claustrophobic in the peak of summer.

7. Mount Nebo

Rising above the Jordan Valley, this site provides a historical and spiritual focal point with long-reaching views. In March, the atmosphere is often clear, allowing for better visibility across the valley toward the West Bank and the Dead Sea.

It is a place that rewards a slow pace, as you look out over the landscape and explore the preserved mosaic floors within the church complex. Because the site is exposed and located at a higher elevation, the breeze can be quite persistent, which makes it a refreshing stop during the warmer middle hours of the day when lower regions might feel more stifling.

8. Ajloun

The Ajloun Forest Reserve and the nearby castle of Qal'at ar-Rabad provide a change of scenery from the desert and stone ruins found elsewhere. The region is notable for its hills, oak forests, and temperate climate, which feels distinct from the arid south.

In March, the landscape is often quite green, making the trails around the reserve appealing for those who prefer nature to archaeology. The castle, perched on a hilltop, offers extensive views over the Jordan Valley.

It is a rewarding destination for a day trip, provided you have a vehicle, as it allows you to see a side of the country that is significantly more humid and forested than the arid interior.

9. Kerak

This site is dominated by a massive Crusader fortress that sits atop a rocky spur. It is a sprawling, labyrinthine construction of vaulted halls and dark passageways.

Exploring the fortress in March is advisable because the interior passages can be chilly, and the steep exterior climbs to reach the ramparts are much easier when the air is cool. The town surrounding the castle is built into the hillside and requires navigating many stairs.

Having the energy to move through these vertical urban spaces is vital, and the manageable temperatures of March ensure you remain comfortable while traversing the castle’s many levels.

10. Dana Biosphere Reserve

This large nature reserve consists of a series of valleys and mountains that descend from the high plateau to the desert floor. The varying altitudes mean that you can experience different ecosystems within a single area.

March is a productive time for those interested in the natural terrain and the diversity of the plant life as the landscape begins to show signs of life. The walking trails are varied in difficulty; however, the lack of intense heat makes the steeper descents into the valley less hazardous.

It is a destination for those who want to see the rugged, natural side of the country away from the major archaeological monuments.

Planning and packing for March

The key to visiting Jordan in March is layering. The temperature difference between the sun-drenched desert at noon and a mountain village after sunset can be significant.

Pack a mix of light, breathable clothing for the daytime and a warm jacket or fleece for the evenings, especially if you plan to visit the desert or the highlands. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are non-negotiable, as you will be spending hours on uneven, dusty surfaces.

A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are useful even when the air feels cool, as the sun’s intensity remains high. Given the varied terrain, consider renting a vehicle to move between the desert and the highlands, as this allows you to manage your own schedule and stay flexible regarding the weather.

Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to swim in the Dead Sea in March?

Swimming is possible, though the water temperature will feel refreshing rather than warm. The air temperature is generally comfortable for spending time at the shoreline, but you may find the transition from the water to the air feels cool, particularly if there is a breeze. Bring a towel and a robe for quick drying.

Should I focus on the north or the south of the country?

The south, containing Petra and Wadi Rum, is essential for major archaeological and desert landscapes. The north, with places like Jerash and Ajloun, is greener and offers a glimpse of the Mediterranean-influenced landscape.

If you have only a week, focusing on the central and southern regions allows for a more cohesive experience.

Is March a busy time for tourism in Jordan?

March is a popular time for visitors due to the mild weather. You should expect to encounter other travellers at major sites like Petra and Wadi Rum. While it is not as intense as the peak holiday weeks, it is rarely quiet, so arriving early at popular locations is a sensible strategy.

What footwear is necessary for visiting Petra?

You will need robust, broken-in walking shoes or light hiking boots with good grip. The trails in Petra are a mix of sand, packed dirt, and uneven stone staircases. Leave sandals or thin-soled shoes at your accommodation, as they will not provide the support required for a full day of walking.

Is a guided tour necessary for Wadi Rum?

Using a local guide for Wadi Rum is strongly recommended. They have the expertise to navigate the vast, featureless desert and know the locations of the rock art and natural bridges. They also manage the transport and logistics for overnight stays, which simplifies the experience considerably.

How does the temperature change between day and night?

The drop is often dramatic, particularly in the desert and the highlands. While midday might reach comfortable, shirt-sleeve temperatures, the onset of darkness brings a sharp chill. Always carry a secondary layer, such as a jumper or a windproof jacket, even if the forecast predicts a warm, sunny day.

Can I travel between these destinations by public transport?

Public transport exists between the major cities, but it is not always the most efficient way to reach dispersed sites like the desert reserves or smaller archaeological ruins. Renting a car offers the greatest degree of freedom and allows you to manage your time at each location without relying on fixed schedules.

Is there a dress code for visiting religious sites?

Modesty is important when visiting mosques and more conservative rural areas. Both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. Carrying a light scarf is a practical way to ensure you are appropriately dressed if you decide to enter a religious building during your day of sightseeing.

Final thoughts

Choose Petra if your primary goal is a bucket-list archaeological experience that requires significant walking, as the conditions in March make the physical effort more manageable. If you prefer a balance of nature and quietude, consider Wadi Rum or the Dana Biosphere Reserve, which allow for a more contemplative, landscape-focused trip.

Combine a visit to the high-altitude, historically rich sites of the north with a final few days at the Dead Sea to benefit from the shifting climate and regional variety.

Weather, opening times and transport details in this guide were correct as far as we could check. Always confirm directly before you travel.

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