Regarding weather, the best time to visit Egypt is from October to April, when temperatures are at their most pleasant. However, December and January constitute 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 rates at Red Sea resorts are at their most expensive.
The Best Time to Visit Egypt
If minimizing expense is a priority, tours and accommodation are often significantly cheaper during the hot shoulder-season months of June and September. Realistically, temperatures in July and August make daytime sight-seeing difficult, although the country's coastal resorts offer some 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 hot 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 on 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 sights are located 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 draining, while several top attractions are located in southern Egypt, where it is even hotter than Cairo. If you're planning on visiting Luxor or Aswan from May to October, make sure to avoid the midday heat by planning your sight-seeing for the early morning or late afternoon. Between March and May, the khamsin wind brings thick dust and sandstorms.
Morning Time at Valley of the Kings in Luxor City ,Egypt
Best Time to Cruise the Nile
With this in mind, the best time to book a Nile cruise is between October and April. Temperatures are manageable at this time of year, allowing you to get the most out of day-trips to iconic sights like The Valley of the Kings and the Temples of Luxor. For the same reasons, travel during the peak summer months from June to August is not advised. Average highs for Aswan exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit at this time of year, and there isn't a lot of shade to offer respite from the midday sun.
Egypt, Red Sea, Hurghada, teenage girl snorkeling at coral reef
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 cooler than those of the country's interior. Average summer temperatures at popular beach resort Hurghada hover at around 84 degrees Fahrenheit, while the sea temperature is a balmy 80 degrees—perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. In July and August, however, it's essential to book well in advance, as resorts can get busy with vacationing Europeans and Americans, and with wealthy Egyptians seeking to escape the heat of Cairo.
