Best Time to Visit Egypt: Seasons, Weather, and Planning Tips

The best time to visit Egypt for most travelers is October to April, when temperatures are generally comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, summer can work—especially for Red Sea resorts—if you can handle the heat.

This guide explains Egypt’s seasons, regional differences, and how to choose the best time to visit Egypt for your travel style.

Egypt’s Climate Overview

Egypt has a desert climate with hot summers, mild winters, and very little rainfall. Weather changes depending on where you go, so the best time to visit Egypt can differ by region.

Cairo & Giza

• Hot summers: 35–40°C (95–104°F)

• Mild winters: 15–20°C (59–68°F)

Luxor & Aswan (Upper Egypt)

• Extremely hot summers: 40–45°C (104–113°F)

• Mild winters: 15–25°C (59–77°F)

Red Sea Resorts (Hurghada & Sharm El Sheikh)

• Warm year-round

• Popular for swimming and diving in most months

Sinai & Desert Areas

• Hot days, cooler nights

• Low humidity, but temperature drops after sunset

Best Seasons to Visit Egypt

Winter in Egypt (December–February)

Winter is one of the most popular answers to “best time to visit Egypt” because daytime weather is mild.

What it’s like

• Temperatures often sit around 15–25°C (59–77°F)

Best for

• Temples, pyramids, and city exploration

• Outdoor activities and desert excursions

What to expect

• Peak season crowds (especially Christmas and New Year)

• Higher prices for flights, hotels, and tours

Spring in Egypt (March–May)

Spring combines comfortable warmth with great sightseeing conditions, making it a strong contender for the best time to visit Egypt.

What it’s like

• Pleasant temperatures around 20–30°C (68–86°F)

Best for

• Nile cruises

• Photography and clear skies

• Red Sea diving

What to watch for

• Occasional khamsin winds that can bring dusty conditions

• A scarf and sunglasses help on windy days

Summer in Egypt (June–August)

Summer is the hottest season, especially in Upper Egypt. It can still be a practical best time to visit Egypt choice if your focus is the coast and you want fewer tourists.

What it’s like

• Very hot in Luxor and Aswan

• Coastal areas feel more comfortable due to sea breezes

Best for

• Red Sea resorts

• Swimming and diving

• Travelers who want lower prices and fewer crowds

What to expect

• Heat can make midday sightseeing uncomfortable

• Desert tours are harder in peak summer temperatures

Autumn in Egypt (September–November)

Autumn is often considered one of the best time to visit Egypt windows because it balances comfortable weather and fewer crowds than winter.

What it’s like

• Warm and comfortable temperatures, similar to spring

Best for

• Cairo city tours

• Nile cruises

• Desert adventures

What to watch for

• Early September may still feel hot, especially in Upper Egypt

Comparison Table: Best Time to Visit Egypt by Season

Practical Tips for Visiting Egypt Comfortably

Plan Around the Heat

Even in the best time to visit Egypt, the sun can feel strong.

• Wear light, breathable clothing

• Use sunscreen and a hat

• Schedule outdoor sites in the morning or late afternoon

Hydrate Constantly

• Carry water during temple days

• This matters most in Luxor, Aswan, and desert areas

Book Early in High Season

• Winter is peak season

• Book flights, hotels, and tours in advance

Consider Regional Differences

• Alexandria and northern areas can feel milder than Upper Egypt in summer

• Upper Egypt gets hotter faster and stays hotter longer

Which Time Is Best for You?

Choose October–April if you want the classic experience

This is the best time to visit Egypt for pyramids, temples, markets, and outdoor sightseeing.

Choose March–May or September–November if you want balance

These shoulder seasons offer comfortable weather with fewer crowds than winter.

Choose June–August if you’re focused on the Red Sea

Summer can be ideal for resorts and water activities—just plan inland sightseeing carefully around the heat.

Conclusion

The best time to visit Egypt depends on your heat tolerance and crowd preference. Most travelers find October to April ideal for sightseeing and outdoor experiences. Summer can be cheaper and quieter, especially for Red Sea trips, if you plan smartly around high temperatures.

4. FAQ Section

1) What is the best time to visit Egypt for sightseeing?

The best time to visit Egypt for sightseeing is generally October to April, when temperatures are comfortable for walking around pyramids, temples, and markets. This season supports longer outdoor days and easier desert excursions without the intense summer heat.

2) Is winter a good time to visit Egypt?

Yes, winter is a great time to visit Egypt because daytime temperatures are mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Expect bigger crowds and higher prices around holidays, and bring a light jacket because evenings can feel cooler in desert regions.

3) When is Egypt too hot for temples and ruins?

Summer months, especially June to August, can be very hot for temple sightseeing—particularly in Luxor and Aswan. If you visit in summer, plan visits early in the morning or late afternoon, carry water, and avoid the hottest midday hours.

4) What is the best time to visit Egypt for a Nile cruise?

Spring and autumn are excellent for Nile cruises because temperatures are comfortable and the scenery is enjoyable without extreme heat. Winter is also popular, but it often comes with peak-season crowds and higher prices for cruises and hotels.

5) What months are best for Red Sea resorts in Egypt?

Red Sea resorts are warm year-round, so there isn’t one single “best” month for everyone. Summer offers warmer conditions and fewer tourists, while winter can still be pleasant for resort stays, depending on your preference for water temperature.

6) What is the khamsin wind in Egypt, and when does it happen?

Khamsin is a seasonal wind that can bring dusty or sandy conditions, most commonly in spring. It may briefly affect visibility and comfort, especially for desert excursions, so checking forecasts and carrying sunglasses and a scarf can help.

7) How can I avoid crowds when visiting Egypt?

To avoid crowds, consider traveling in shoulder seasons like March–May or September–November. These periods often provide comfortable weather while being less crowded than winter peak months, especially around major landmarks and popular tourist hubs.

8) Should I plan different activities by season in Egypt?

Yes, matching activities to season improves comfort. Winter and shoulder seasons are best for pyramids, temples, and desert tours, while summer is often better for Red Sea resort time. A flexible schedule helps you avoid heat and enjoy outdoor sites.

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