What to Wear in Petra: Heat, Sun, and Modesty Norms

Direct answer: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes, a wide-brimmed hat, and closed-toe shoes (sandstone is sharp). Shorts are fine; modesty is not strictly enforced at the site, but covered knees show respect. Bring sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, and a long scarf if you prefer. Avoid white, which glares in the sun.

Best fabricLightweight cotton or linen, loose-fitting

FootwearClosed-toe hiking shoes or trainers (sandstone cuts flip-flops)

HeadWide-brimmed hat, baseball cap, or scarf wrap

Sun protectionSPF 50+ sunscreen, reapply every 2 hours

LegsShorts are fine; long pants if you want to blend in

ModestyNot strictly enforced, but covered knees are respectful

AvoidWhite (glares), heavy jeans, leather shoes (too hot), flip-flops

The heat and sun: your main enemy

Petra is open sandstone and rock. There is minimal shade. Summer temperatures exceed 40°C; even spring and autumn days push 26–28°C. Your skin will burn. Your feet will hurt if your shoes are poor. Wear light colors (except white), breathable fabric, and cover your shoulders and the back of your neck. A long cotton scarf works as a neck cover and a head wrap if you need it.

Footwear: wear proper shoes

The Siq and the main trail are sandstone and rock-cut steps. Flip-flops will cut your feet. Hiking shoes are ideal; trainers are acceptable if they have good grip. If you must wear something casual, wear closed sandals with straps, not slip-ons. Many reviewers regret not wearing proper footwear on the Monastery climb—800 steps and no cushioning in casual shoes is painful.

Modesty in Jordan

Petra is a tourist site, not a mosque. Shorts and T-shirts are worn by visitors from Europe and North America. They are not forbidden. That said, covered knees and shoulders show respect for the local culture. A long scarf in your day pack gives you the option to cover if you want. Local guides and Jordanian women often wear longer clothes; if you mirror that, you blend in and feel comfortable.

Insider tip

Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes. Proper hiking shoes. Wide-brimmed hat. SPF 50+ sunscreen. Reapply sunscreen every two hours.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I wear shorts in Petra?

Yes. Shorts are worn by tourists and not forbidden. Covered knees are more respectful, but you will not be asked to leave or cover up. Wear what is comfortable, but know that light, loose-fitting clothes stay cooler than tight jeans.

What shoes should I wear?

Closed-toe hiking shoes or trainers with good grip. The Siq and Monastery are rock and sandstone—flip-flops will cut your feet. Reviewers often regret casual footwear on the 800-step Monastery climb. Invest in good shoes.

Is sun protection really necessary?

Yes. Petra has minimal shade and the sun is intense. SPF 50+ sunscreen, reapply every two hours. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are essential. Do not skip this—sunburn spoils the rest of your trip.

Is it okay to wear white?

Technically yes, but white glares in strong sunlight and can strain your eyes. Light colors like cream, khaki, or pale blue are better. White also shows dirt, and Petra kicks up a lot of dust on windy days.