Last updated on February 13th, 2025 at 02:02 pm
Are you planning a trip to Egypt? This travel guide will explain each season in Egypt, the best time for Nile cruises and tours in Egypt, and help you answer your question – What is the best time to visit Egypt?
We began our 9-month Cairo to Cape Town trip in….yes you guessed it, Egypt! Our visas only allowed us to stay for 30 days but we would have spent longer here if we could and we’re already planning to return to Egypt -“The Cradle of Civilization’ in the future.
Visiting Egypt is an unforgettable experience. From the chaotic, yet wonderful hustle and bustle of Egypt’s Capital city, Cairo. Relax in stunning beach resorts in Sharm-el-Sheikh, learn about the fascinating Egyptian history, and discover world-famous landmarks such as The Great Pyramids of Giza and Abu Simbel, Egypt is a nation filled with awe and wonder with something for every type of traveler.
In addition to its famous historical sites, like the Great Pyramids of Giza and ancient temples and tombs, Egypt has so much more to offer. You can explore bustling markets, tour the Great Sand Sea, relax at beachfront resorts on both the Mediterranean and the Red Sea with stunning turquoise waters with lots of water activities, and experience the country’s warm hospitality. Of all the African countries we visited, Egypt was the most budget-friendly and affordable.
We could go as far as saying the cheapest country we have ever visited!
Now that you’re inspired to visit this incredible country, let’s explore the best time to visit Egypt.
When is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?
Just like any travel destination, it’s important to consider the climate before visiting Egypt, and we’re here to help with our travel tips.
The best time to go to Egypt depends on the type of experience you’re looking for and the places you plan to visit. Keep in mind that Egypt can get quite cold in some areas despite having a predominantly desert climate, with temperature variations throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Egypt: Winter (November to February)
Traveling to Egypt in the winter is considered the peak tourist season, due to its mild and pleasant weather. When you visit Egypt in November – February, temperatures are generally comfortable ranging between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the day and dropping at night to a cooler temperature.
As mentioned above, it can get quite cold in Egypt with temperatures dropping below 10°C (50°F) at night, so even though the days are mild, being in a desert environment means cooler evenings. Be sure to pack some warm gear to stay comfortable during your visit.
The pleasant weather during this cooler winter season makes it the best time to visit Egypt and the most popular tourist attractions in Egypt, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, The Step Pyramid of Djoser, the Bent Pyramid, the Valley of Kings in Luxor, and the Nubian people in Aswan, which are must-visit places in Egypt. Furthermore, you are less likely to encounter any sand storms during the winter months making it a great time to visit Egypt’s beaches and enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling or hiking.
The Abu Simbel Sun Festival in February is a magnificent event that marks the alignment of the winter sun with the entrance of the Abu Simbel temples, illuminating the inner chamber with a beam of light. This festival is considered one of the best times to visit Egypt in winter, as it not only showcases a remarkable astronomical phenomenon.
Even though visiting Egypt in the winter months is the coolest time to visit, and offers the coolest temperatures, it also means larger crowds, especially during the peak season around New Year’s. Hotels, Nile cruises, and popular attractions may be busier than usual. However, as mentioned earlier, Egypt is very affordable to visit, and you can still find plenty of great deals. Additionally, it’s worth noting that swimming in the water on the beaches of Egypt will be cooler during this time.
Did you know about Ireland’s Newgrange Winter Solstice Celebration? On the longest night of the year, December 21st, a spectacular phenomenon occurs during the winter solstice when a beam of sunlight shines into the inner chamber of Newgrange (which is older than the Giza Pyramids) illuminating the inside chamber for nearly 17 minutes. Both Newgrange and Abu Simbel are true spectacles of ancient wonders and make you wonder how they were built so long ago.
Best Time to Visit Egypt: Spring (March to May)
Springtime in Egypt sees rising temperatures but remains one of the best times to visit Egypt before the scorching summer heat sets in. It’s an ideal time for exploring cities, historical sites, and the Red Sea coastal areas. Temperatures can range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) during the day, gradually warming up.
We reached Cairo on March 6 and the daytime temperatures were hot but manageable in places like Cairo, but were slightly chilly at the coast of the Mediterranean Sea town of Marsa Matruh.
Again we want to reiterate that when visiting Egypt from March to May, temperatures can drop significantly at night depending on your location. We weren’t fully prepared for the chilly conditions, and it’s worth remembering that most places in Egypt do not have heating or fireplaces to provide warmth.
However, spring in Egypt remains one of the most pleasant and best times to visit Egypt’s best attractions and the Red Sea coastal areas.
Best Time to Visit Egypt: Summer (June to August)
Visiting Egypt in June – August can be incredibly hot, particularly in southern cities such as Luxor and Aswan, where temperatures often soar above 40°C (104°F) and can reach even higher in some areas. However, this does not mean that it is not the best time to visit Egypt as there are advantages to this.
Although summer is the hottest time in Egypt, it can work to your advantage. The high temperatures mean fewer crowds and more affordable hotel prices. Luxury beach resorts in Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh along the Red Sea offer plenty of water activities to help you stay cool. So, if you’re looking for a trip filled with luxury, relaxation, and beautiful beaches, summer can be the perfect time to visit Egypt.
Check out some incredible budget-friendly offers for the best attractions in Egypt below.
If you are visiting Egypt in the summer months, make sure to choose a hotel equipped with air conditioning to ensure a comfortable stay amidst the soaring temperatures. If your plans revolve around beach activities, the summer season can offer a great and cheap experience despite the heat, and for that the best time to visit Egypt.
Best Time to Visit Egypt: Autumn (September to October)
Autumn is often regarded as a shoulder season in Egypt, characterized by a gradual decrease in temperatures following the summer heat. This time of year offers a delightful opportunity for sightseeing and exploring historical sites making it a good time to visit Egypt.
During this period, daytime temperatures generally range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), creating an ideal climate for visiting the best attractions in Egypt. Since it’s considered a shoulder season, there are fewer tourists compared to the peak winter months, making it more relaxed to explore Egypt’s popular sights without crowds.
While rare, autumn storms can bring rain to Egypt, particularly in the northern regions such as Cairo and Alexandria, which can make your travel plans unpredictable, but these are very unique occasions.
So ideally the best times to visit Egypt are April/May and September/October. During these months temperatures will still be high during the day but not scorching hot for our sensitive Irish fair skin!
- WorldNomads Travel Insurance is our top choice for travel coverage. With the best transparent fine print in the industry, it’s no wonder they’re ranked number one. Don’t leave your adventures to chance and get the protection you need today!
Best Time to Visit Egypt For Cultural Festivals
It’s important to note that there are many cultural events in Egypt throughout the year, such as religious celebrations, cultural festivals, and historical commemorations. These events might also influence your travel plans and experiences. The following are the most popular celebrated festivals in Egypt.
- Sham el-Nessim (usually late March or early April) – A spring festival celebrated with picnics, flying kites, and feasting.
- Ramadan (dates vary, usually April or May) – A holy month of fasting, prayer, and celebration for Muslims.
- Eid al-Fitr (dates vary, usually late May or early June) – A three-day festival marking the end of Ramadan, with festivities, feasting, and gift-giving.
- National Police Day (Visit Egypt on January 25th) – A public holiday commemorating the 1919 revolution against British occupation.
- Revolution Day (Visit Egypt on January 25th to 30th) – A week of celebrations marking the 2011 revolution that led to the ousting of President Mubarak.
- Sinai Liberation Day (Visit Egypt on March 6th) – A public holiday honoring the liberation of the Sinai Peninsula from Israeli occupation in 1979.
- Nile Day (Visit Egypt on July 15th) – A celebration of Egypt’s longest river, Nile Day highlights the importance of water and the environment.
- Al-Ghad El-Maadi (Visit Egypt in summer, June or July) – A unique festival showcasing local talent, including music, dance, and art in the Cairo neighborhood of Maadi.
- Festival of Lights (Visit Egypt in July or August) – Celebrated with lanterns, concerts, and street performances in various cities.
- Mawlid al-Nabi (Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, usually September or October) – A celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, marked by prayer, feasting, and festivities.
- Cairo International Film Festival (late November to early December) – A prestigious film festival showcasing world cinema, with a focus on Egyptian and Arab productions
If you liked what you have read then why not check out the following articles.
- 20 Simple Things To Know For Your Egypt Holiday.
- 8 Easy Ways to Prevent Tourist Traps And Avoid Getting Scammed: The Egypt Edition.
- Siwa Oasis Egypt: Ultimate Travel Guide to a Hidden Paradise.
- Discover Cairo: 15 Unique Cairo Attractions to Visit Now.
- Ultimate Africa Itinerary
Now that you know the best times to visit Egypt, let’s check out the packing essentials for an Egypt holiday that we use and recommend.
What Packing Essentials do I need for my Egypt holiday?
All of the products mentioned have been owned and are used by us. Or else we have purchased these travel accessories for family and friends. Most importantly, these travel accessories are practical, durable, affordable, and perfect for all types of traveler.
- Multi Travel Adapter – A Type C plug is used in Egypt, but with a universal travel adapter, you’ll be equipped to handle any plug type in the world.
- Dry-Bag – Protect your belongings for those beach/salt lake adventure days.
- Bum Bag – Protect all your belongings such as money and ATM cards.
- Battery Pack – this travel gadget lets you recharge your electronic devices such as phones, tablets, or cameras.
- A packable lightweight jacket – Visiting Egypt in January can get quite cold.
- Shemagh – A traditional Middle Eastern scarf also known as a keffiyeh, that protects you from the sun.
- Booney Hat – Don’t forget a booney hat to protect from the sun.
Furthermore, the following are useful apps to download for your trip to Egypt.
- Download apps such as Google Translate, and Google Maps.
- Utilize budget apps such as TravelSpend to keep track of your spending.
- A sense of adventure and a BIG SMILE.
For more travel advice such as planning and budgeting that we use worldwide, check out our comprehensive list of personalized travel tips here.
Enjoy Your Egypt Holiday!
Ultimately, the best time to visit Egypt depends on your priorities and preferences. For a more relaxed atmosphere with milder weather, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November).
Visiting Egypt in winter (December to February) offers the coolest temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing, but it’s also the busiest time. If you enjoy warmer weather combined with beach activities, then summer in Egypt (June to August) might be the perfect choice. No matter when you visit Egypt, you are in for unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.
Now that you have found the best time to visit Egypt, all there is left to do is travel to Egypt and witness some of the best attractions in the world. Start planning today by clicking the link below to check flight prices to Egypt.
We are already excited for you so please feel free to leave a comment and let us know what you think of Egypt. We would love to hear from you.
Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
Slán go fóil
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on the links to make a purchase, we will earn a small commission. This is at NO EXTRA COST to you. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring adventure travel guides.
