Regarding the climate, the best time to visit Egypt is from October to April, when the temperatures are most pleasant. However, December and January are the peak tourist season, and iconic sights like the Pyramids of Giza, the Temples of Luxor, and Abu Simbel can get uncomfortably crowded. Also, this is when the rates at the Red Sea resorts are more expensive.
The high season
If minimizing expenses is a priority, tours and accommodation are often significantly cheaper during the months of June and September. Realistically, temperatures in July and August make daytime sightseeing difficult, though the country’s coastal resorts offer respite from the summer heat.
The weather in Egypt
For most people, the weather is the crucial factor in deciding when to visit Egypt. The climate is typically warm and sunny throughout the year, and there is very little precipitation south of Cairo. Even in the wettest places (Alexandria and Rafah), it only rains an average of 46 days per year. Winters are generally mild, with daytime temperatures in Cairo averaging around 68 degrees Fahrenheit. At night, temperatures in the capital can drop to 50 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. In summer, temperatures reach an average of 95 degrees Fahrenheit, exacerbated by intense humidity.
It is important to remember that many of Egypt’s ancient sites are in desert regions that remain hot despite the proximity of the Nile River. Climbing into an airless tomb on a 100-degree day can be exhausting, while several of the top attractions are in southern Egypt, where it’s even hotter than Cairo. If you plan to visit Luxor or Aswan from May to October, be sure to avoid the midday heat by planning your sightseeing tours in the early morning or late afternoon. Between March and May, the Khamsin wind brings thick dust and sandstorms.
The best time to navigate the Nile
With this in mind, the best time to book a Nile cruise is between October and April. Temperatures are manageable this time of year, allowing you to make the most of day trips to iconic locations such as the Valley of the Kings and the Temples of Luxor. For the same reasons, traveling during the peak summer months, June through August, is not recommended. Aswan’s average highs exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit at this time of year, and there isn’t much shade to offer respite from the midday sun.
The best time to enjoy the Red Sea
June to September is an excellent time to visit the Red Sea beach resorts. Despite being the peak of summer, temperatures on the coast are much colder than those in the interior of the country. Average summer temperatures at the popular Hurghada beach resort hover around 84 degrees Fahrenheit, while sea temperatures are a mild 80 degrees, perfect for snorkelling and snorkelling. However, in July and August, booking well in advance is essential, as the resorts can be busy with Europeans and Americans on vacation, and wealthy Egyptians looking to escape the heat of Cairo.
The best time to visit the western desert of Egypt
Summers in the desert should be avoided, as temperatures in destinations like Siwa Oasis routinely exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit. During the depths of winter, nighttime temperatures can plummet to just below freezing, so the best time to visit is midway through spring or fall. February to April and September to November are the optimal times for temperature, although spring visitors should be aware of possible sandstorms as a result of the annual Khamsin wind.
Traveling to Egypt during Ramadan
Ramadan is the Muslim holy month of fasting, and the dates change each year according to the Islamic calendar dates, but generally fall between mid-May and the end of June. Tourists are not expected to fast when visiting Egypt during Ramadan. However, shops and banks tend to close for much of the day, while many cafes and restaurants do not open during the day. At night, there is a generally festive atmosphere, such as eating and drinking. Towards the end of Ramadan, there are several festivities that are fun to experience and observe.
Spring
Spring is a good time to visit Egypt, as temperatures are usually quite moderate, but some visitors may want to avoid the “Khamsin wind” season that runs between March and April, as it can carry sand and dust in the air. As low season, hotel prices will be more reasonable than during winter.
Events to watch:
- Abu El Haggag Moulid, a five-day carnival in Luxor, usually takes place in the spring, a month before Ramadan. The festival celebrates a 13th century Sufi leader, Yusuf Abu Al Haggag.
- The people of Egypt celebrate Shem al Nessim to welcome the spring season to the country. It usually takes place in April, after Coptic Easter.
Summer
Temperatures can often be sweltering during the summer, especially in Upper Egypt near Luxor. But traveling during this time has its benefit: You can see Egypt without the rush of other tourists, leaving you alone at some of the country’s most revered landmarks. Ramadan generally falls during the summer months; Please note that some attractions may close earlier than usual.
Events to watch:
- Muslims end the long month of Ramadan with Eid al Fitr, a religious holiday.
Fall
Like spring, fall brings cooler temperatures and affordable prices. The heat can sometimes last into October, but the crowds are still sparse, making it a great time to visit popular landmarks. If you are planning a visit to the beach, this is a great time of year as the Mediterranean Sea is still warm with no crowds.
Events to watch:
- Wafaa Al Nil is an ancient festival dedicated to the Nile River. It is usually held during September.
Winter
While winter can mean pleasant weather, it is also the peak tourist season. Attractions will be more crowded and hotel prices can skyrocket. There are occasional rains and some cities, like Alexandria, will be quite humid.
Events to watch:
- On January 7, the Copts of Egypt celebrate Coptic Christmas. At midnight, the faithful gather en masse and enjoy a traditional “fata” meal together.
- The Abu Simbel Festival is held on February 22 of each year, celebrating the country’s homonymous temple.
- Formerly held in summer, the Cairo Art Fair is one of the largest contemporary art exhibitions in the country. The fair showcases the work of more than 100 of the best artists in the country.
