Are you planning a trip to Egypt? This travel guide will explain each season and help you answer your question – What is the best time to visit Egypt?
Visiting Egypt is truly incredible. From the chaotic, yet wonderful hustle and bustle of Cairo to its fascinating history and breathtaking landmarks, Egypt is a nation filled with awe and wonder.
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.
In addition to Egypt’s historical sites like the Great Pyramids of Giza and ancient temples/tombs, Egypt also offers bustling markets, vast deserts waiting to be explored, beaches with turquoise waters, and incredibly warm hospitality. Egypt is actually the cheapest and most affordable of all the countries we visited in Africa.
We could go as far as saying the cheapest country we have ever visited!
Now that we have convinced you to visit this fascinating country, let’s find out the best time to visit Egypt.
When is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?
As with anywhere in the world, it is important to research Egypt weather before your Egypt holiday, and we are here to help with that.
Firstly, this largely depends on the kind of experience you’re seeking as well as the destinations you plan to visit within the country.
Remember that Egypt experiences a predominantly desert climate, with variations in temperature throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Egypt: Winter (November to February)
Winter is considered the peak tourist season in Egypt 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.
It’s important to remember that temperatures can drop 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 Pyramids of Giza, Luxor, and 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 the country’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.
On the downside, visiting Egypt during the winter months is the coolest time to visit, but it also means it can be quite crowded, especially during peak season around the New Year. Hotels, cruises, and popular sites 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 in the city of Marsa Matruh.
However, it’s important to note that (as mentioned earlier), when visiting Egypt in 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 remains one of the most pleasant and best times to visit Egypt, to explore 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 regions 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.
Even though this is the hottest time in Egypt, traveling during the summer months can actually work in your favor, as the heat results in fewer crowds and more affordable hotel prices. Coastal destinations like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh along the Red Sea are packed with luxury beach resorts with plenty of water activities to cool down. So depending on what type of holiday you are looking for, the summer months can be the best time to visit Egypt if you are looking for luxury, relaxation, and stunning beaches.
Check out some incredible budget-friendly offers for the best attractions in Egypt below.
If you are visiting Egypt during 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, 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 one of the best times to visit Egypt.
During this time, 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 summer months, making it more relaxed to explore Egypt’s popular attractions without the crowds.
While rare, autumn storms can bring rain to Egypt, particularly in the northern regions such as Cairo and Alexandria, which can make your Egypt travel plans unpredictable, but these are very unique occasions.
So ideally the best time 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!
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Best Time to Visit Egypt For Festivals
It’s important to note that Egypt hosts several festivals and events 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 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.
- Truly Discover Cairo: 15 Unique Cairo Attractions to Visit Now.
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, you must consider your priorities and preferences when deciding when to visit Egypt. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and milder weather, opt for the shoulder or low season. If you prefer warmer weather and beach activities, summer might be the best time to visit Egypt for you. Overall, a holiday in Egypt promises plenty of exciting experiences and memorable moments.
Now that you have found the best time to visit Egypt, all there is left to do is to travel and witness some of the most magnificent and best attractions on this planet. Begin your planning today by clicking the link below to discover the cost of a flight 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.
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