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Best Time and Season to Visit Egypt: Complete Guide

Team AckoFeb 27, 2024

Egypt- the land of pyramids, the river Nile and pharaohs, is a fascinating country to visit. One of the oldest tourist destinations, Egypt has become a perfect amalgamation of culture, history and modern living. Whether you are looking to cruise along the river Nile, or walk across historic landmarks or even relax at beach resorts, the country has so much to offer to all tourists. Tourism in Egypt is affected by the seasons. Here’s a guide to help you decide the best time to visit Egypt. While the heat of July and August can be intense, winter brings in flocks of visitors to enjoy the milder temperatures. Fall and spring are a happy medium, with fewer travellers and manageable temperatures.

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When is The Best Time to Visit Egypt?

Egypt's climate is one of the most important factors to consider while planning your vacation. Venturing outdoors during sweltering desert heat won’t be the best experience on a holiday. Winter months from October to April are considered to be the best time to visit Egypt. Outdoor temperatures all over Egypt are comparatively cooler, but still pleasantly warm. During these months, you don’t have to limit your excursion timings to just the morning and evening. This makes visiting the great Pyramids and exploring random streets of Cairo more enjoyable.

If you are visiting Egypt during the winter months then make sure to plan ahead of time. Since October to April is considered the best time to go to Egypt on holiday, it's booming with tourists. Finding good accommodation and flight tickets at a good price can be an issue.

When is The Best Season to Visit Egypt?

October to February is considered the peak season to visit Egypt. It is the best time to visit Egypt as you get to explore the ancient country without sweat. Christmas and New Year festivities, further increase tourist inflow in Egypt in December and January. The average temperature during this time ranges between 18 °C to 26 °C. Be prepared for cold evenings, especially in Cairo, Nile Delta and Alexandria. Do not forget to pack warm clothing if you are visiting Egypt during peak season.

If you’re interested in exploring Luxor's ancient ruins, winter is the best time to visit. The weather is mild and the skies are clear, making it ideal for spending long days outdoors. This is also the busiest tourist season in Egypt, so if you're planning on visiting sites like the Sinai or the Red Sea or the Western Desert, be sure to book your tickets and accommodation in advance.

Shoulder season to visit Egypt

March, April and September are considered the shoulder season to visit Egypt. These months are the beginning and end of the peak tourist season. The average temperature during the shoulder season in Egypt ranges between 14 °C to 33 °C. These are ideal months to visit Egypt to avoid massive crowds and still enjoy decent Egypt weather. So you get to enjoy the best of both worlds. Major tourist sites are not overcrowded and accommodation and other tourist services are reasonably priced. It is the best time to visit Egypt beaches for sunbathing at the Red Sea, snorkelling and swimming.

Keep in mind that daytime temperatures can still be very hot in May and September. So plan your itinerary accordingly if you are sensitive to heat or are travelling with young children.

Low season to visit Egypt

Summertime from May to August is considered to be the low season to visit Egypt. Weather can be quite harsh in Egypt at this time, with little to no rain. The average high temperature during these months can go as high as 42 °C. This makes sightseeing in sweltering Egypt weather difficult. Most of the ancient temples and tombs open as early as six in the morning during the summer. Don’t even think of visiting the Western Desert in Egypt during the low season. Unless you are an early riser, travelling to Egypt during the summer months is not recommended.

This is considered the best time to visit Egypt for diving in the Red Sea and Sharm el-Sheikh. The heat on land is paid off by warm, calm and clear underwater visibility in the sea. It is worth noting that even though summer is a low travel season for foreign tourists but it is one of the peak domestic holiday seasons in Egypt. Half of Cairo is known to slip away towards the Mediterranean coast during the summers.

Best month to visit Egypt

A month-by-month guide to travel in Egypt

Egypt is a country with a variety of weather conditions due to its different regions and sites. The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37 °C to 14°C. While summer in Egypt is hot, winter is cool and mild, but can get cold at night. The average low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime, while the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. However, the temperature is moderate all along the coasts. The weather is one of the top reasons that demarcates the best month to visit Egypt from the rest of the months. Here is our month-by-month guide to travel in Egypt.

Egypt in January

January is considered to be one of the best months to visit Egypt. It is winter time and the weather is perfect for outdoor sightseeing. Daytime is pleasant and evenings are slightly cold. It is an ideal time to visit any part of the country. Weather along with the New Year holidays makes January the peak season to visit. Expect a lot of crowds, especially in popular places like the Pyramids of Giza. Hotel and airfares are also higher in January. Make all your bookings well in advance if you are planning to visit Egypt in January.

Cairo and Southern parts of Egypt hardly get any rainfall in January, while northern parts can be wetter. Sometimes the beaches on the Sinai Peninsula experience storms and flooding around this time of the year.

The average temperature range in January: 9 °C to 18 °C

Average rainfall in January: 15 mm

Events in January: Cairo International Book Fair, Annual Egyptian Marathon

Egypt in February

If you are planning to visit Egypt in February, it will welcome you with sunny yet beautiful and pleasant weather. There's never been a better time to visit the Pyramids of Giza and explore other key historical sites. The temperatures are perfect for strolling around the magnificent ruins and watching the ancient cities come to life. It is still winter here and evenings are slightly cold. Nightlife in Egypt is in full swing around this time as restaurants and bars host special events. Beaches are also lively and it is the best Egypt weather for sunbathing. Crowds are still at their peak, so it's hard to get good deals and discounts. Hotel accommodations are expensive and need to be booked in advance.

The average temperature range in February: 9 °C to 18 °C

Average rainfall in February: 4 mm

Events in February: Abu Simbel Sun Festival

Egypt in March

Egypt is a gorgeous country that's especially lovely to visit during the shoulder season in March. The weather is warm but not too hot, so it's perfect for exploring ancient ruins and historical sites. There is a significant shift in Egypt's weather during the second half of March. Since the crowds are thinner at this time of year, you'll have more space to enjoy all the beauty that Egypt has to offer. It is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Egypt from India as you can get great travel deals. Costs are lesser compared to peak winter months.

The average temperature range in March: 12 °C to 22 °C

Average rainfall in March: 8 mm

Events in March: Downtown Cairo Contemporary Arts Festival

Egypt in April

April is also considered the shoulder season to visit Egypt. It is a great month to travel to Egypt, as it's warm but the weather is still mild compared to the blistering summer months from May to August. Crowds significantly start clearing out in April, making it a perfect time to visit the ancient civilisation. You can get hold of good travel deals to Egypt around this time. One of the best activities to consider when visiting Egypt in April is desert camping.

The average temperature range in April: 15 °C to 27 °C

Average rainfall in April: 7 mm

Events in April: Sinai Liberation Day, Coptic Easter Sunday, Sham Al Nassim

Egypt in May

In Egypt, beaches are full of life in May. If you're looking to escape the heat this summer, the Red Sea coastal resorts are a great option. Temperatures are slightly cooler in the coastal region and the sea breeze help to keep things comfortable. You can also often find good deals on accommodation and tours as it's the end of Egypt’s tourist season. Just be aware that inland and further south can be extremely hot at this time of year, with sandstorms being a common occurrence. So it's best to stick to the northern region if you're planning on travelling in May.

The average temperature range in May: 18 °C to 32 °C

Average rainfall in May : 0 mm

Events in May: Moulid of Abu Al Haggag, Ramadan

Egypt in June

If you're planning a trip to Egypt during the summer month of June, you'll need to be aware of the heat and plan your itinerary accordingly. The Red Sea beaches are beautiful and full of life, but it can be quite hot in Cairo and other parts of the country. Southern destinations can reach temperatures of 34°C during the day, so it's best to avoid those areas if you're not a fan of the heat. There are fewer tourists during the summer, so you may have a better chance of getting around without crowds. Most historic temples and tombs start opening at 6 in the morning during the summer.

The average temperature range in June: 20 °C to 34 °C

Average rainfall in June : 0 mm

Events in June: Eid al-Fitr, Celebration on the Nile (Leylet en Nuktah)

Egypt in July

July in Egypt is notoriously hot, so much so that it's considered low season by most standards. The high temperatures and no rainfall makes it uncomfortable for tourists to visit. As a result, the number of visitors drops significantly. However, if you don't mind a little extra heat, this can be a great time to go since you'll have more space at popular tourist destinations such as the pyramids and other historical sites. Additionally, costs usually go significantly down during this time so you can save some money. Most hotels and airlines in Egypt run low-season promotions around this time.

One of the best things about visiting Egypt in July is that there are still plenty of places where the temperatures are bearable, especially if you're near the beach where it's typically more refreshing. If you are visiting during Egyptian July, then it is a great time for scuba diving. The sea temperature is warm, the water is calm and the clarity is excellent to explore marine life.

The average temperature range in July: 22 °C to 34 °C

Average rainfall in July: 1 mm

Events in July: Eid Al Adha

Egypt in August

August in Egypt is hot with sweltering midday heat. It is not the best time to travel to Egypt if you want to be outdoors. You will hardly see any tourists, and prices are pocket friendly. Even though it is super hot, the Pyramids of Giza and other historical attractions are still awe-inspiring. Use early morning hours for sightseeing in Egypt during peak summer months. Looking to beat the heat this August in Egypt? Then head to the beautiful Egyptian beaches! With slightly cooler temperatures, a breeze and amazing luxurious hotels in Egypt, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy all the water activities. The coast along the Sinai Peninsula is a popular summer destination in Egypt.

The average temperature range in August: 22 °C to 33 °C

Average rainfall in August : 0 mm

Egypt in September

September is part of the shoulder season in Egypt. It marks the end of summer heat, transitioning into pleasant Egypt weather. It is still warm, but not sweltering hot, especially in the second half of the month. So you can have a fantastic time roaming around the ancient ruins, or swimming at the beach without worrying about massive crowds or exorbitant pricing. September is also the harvesting season for dates in Egypt. So do try some fresh dates.

The average temperature range in September: 20 °C to 32 °C

Average rainfall in September: 5 mm

Events in September: Wafaa Al Nil

Egypt in October

October marks the beginning of the tourist season in Egypt. The country lights up around this time with amazing festivals, temperate weather, and things starting to open up for the peak tourist season ahead. If you are not fond of the big crowd then October is the best time to visit Egypt. Prices are still reasonable, especially in the first half of October. October is an ideal month to visit Egypt if you're looking to explore historical sites like those in Alexandria, or go on a cruise down the Nile. Additionally, several local festivals take place during this month, such as the Abu Simbel Sun Festival. All this makes October a great time to visit for anyone who wants to experience the vibrant culture of Egypt.

The average temperature range in October: 18 °C to 28 °C

Average rainfall in October: 5 mm

Events in October: Abu Simbel Sun Festival, Celebrate the harvest with Siyaha, Moulid of Sayyed Al-Badawi

Egypt in November

November is an ideal time to explore the ancient wonders of Egypt. The weather gets cooler compared to the sweltering summer months. Plus, there are fewer crowds than at peak tourist season (December and January). You'll have a fantastic opportunity to discover the many treasures of one of the world's oldest civilization without battling large crowds.

The average temperature range in November: is 14 °C to 23 °C

Average rainfall in November: 1 mm

Events in November: Cairo Film Festival, Arab Music Festival

Egypt in December

Egypt is bustling with energy in December. Pleasant weather all day long along with Christmas and New Year festivities makes December the peak tourist season. Expect a massive crowd at all the historic sights and enjoy vibrant nightlife all around Egypt in December. All the resorts are buzzing with a holiday atmosphere. Don’t forget to plan your trip and make all the required bookings in advance. Hotel and airfare prices in Egypt are almost double around this time of the year.

The average temperature range in December: 10 °C to 19 °C

Average rainfall in December : 3 mm

Events in December: Coptic Christmas, International Cairo Biennale

More about best time to go to Egypt

When is the cheapest time to visit Egypt?

It is cheapest to visit Egypt during the low season or summer months (May to August). But if you want value for your buck then the shoulder months of March, April and September are ideal for Egypt. If you plan your itinerary around Egypt's weather, you can have a perfect budget-friendly vacation around this time.

When is the most expensive time to visit Egypt?

December and January can be the most expensive time to visit Egypt. Pleasant weather makes these months the peak season for tourism in Egypt. Christmas and New Year holidays add to the demand and pricing in the country.

When is the best time to visit Egypt's beaches?

The shoulder season in Egypt is the best time to visit Egypt beaches. The weather during March, April and September is not too cold or too hot. It is the perfect time for sunbathing at the Red Sea and water activities like swimming and snorkelling.

When is the best time to visit the Egypt pyramids?

The best time to visit Egypt's pyramids is from late October to early April. Egypt's weather is cool and comfortable during these months, making it ideal for long outdoor exploration of the Pyramids.

When is the best time to visit Egypt for diving?

Scuba diving is a year-round activity in Egypt. But the best time to visit Egypt for diving is from late July to early December. The water is warm (around 30 °C), clear and calm around this time, making gate conditions ideal for a dive.

Prioritizing safety, you should consider securing comprehensive and affordable travel insurance like Acko International Travel Insurance to protect against unexpected incidents and hospital expenses in foreign countries. To gain a detailed overview of our offerings, please refer to our - Travel Insurance.

Have a great trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few questions and answers regarding the best time and season to visit Egypt

What is the hottest month in Egypt?

July is the hottest month of the year in Egypt. There is hardly any rainfall during this time all around Egypt. Temperature can go as high as 39 °C, with an average high temperature of 34 °C. It is the month with the lowest tourist inflow in Egypt as the unbearable heat makes it impossible to explore the sites.

What is off-season in Egypt?

The summer months from May to August are considered off-season in Egypt. Weather is notoriously hot and unbearable around this time of the year. The heat coupled with almost no rain makes these months off-season for foreign tourists.

How many days in Egypt is enough?

Keep a minimum of 10 days for your Egypt vacation. This will give you enough time to explore historical tombs and temples, and spend some time cruising the river Nile or relaxing at the Red Sea. Two weeks is an ideal time for Egypt if you want to explore most of what the country has to offer.

Is Egypt cheap to visit?

Egypt is relatively cheap to visit. It is considered to be a budget-friendly holiday destination. It is way cheaper to visit Egypt compared to most European countries or the United States. Except for December and January, Egypt is cheap to visit. Beach resorts like Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurgada are more expensive compared to hotels in Cairo and other cities.

Are pyramids worth visiting?

Yes, the Pyramids are huge and impressive historic landmarks worth visiting. The memory of seeing the ancient wonder in person will stay with you forever.

When is the best time to cruise the Nile?

October to April is considered to be the best time to cruise the Nile. The days are comfortably warm, and you can enjoy the cruise more. These months are perfect for visiting Luxor and Aswan because the weather is not too hot. You'll be able to get the most out of your day trips and see all the iconic sights without feeling uncomfortable in the heat.

When is the best time to visit Egypt's Western Desert?

February to April and September to November are the best months to visit Egypt's Western Desert. Temperature is optimum and enjoyable to visit the desert and night safaris. During summer months it gets way too hot, and nights get cold during winters in the desert.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.

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