The best time to travel to egypt is in winter and autumn, when scorching desert heat gives way to pleasant temperatures. This is ideal for sightseeing without the crowds.
The only downside is that it can be chilly at night due to the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Still, it’s an excellent option for those sensitive to the heat.
Winter
Winter is a fantastic time to explore Egypt as temperatures are pleasantly warm and not scorching. This is ideal for sightseeing Cairo’s famous attractions like the Egyptian Museum and wandering around Coptic Cairo without overheating. It is also a good time to take a Nile cruise or explore the tombs and temples in Upper Egypt as it is cooler.
The weather in February is quite pleasant with average highs of 74 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 53 degrees. It is a perfect time to enjoy the beaches of Hurgada, Sharm El-Sheikh, and El Gouna as they are less crowded than in summer.
Egypt is hot and humid during the summer months of June to September, but air conditioners, cheaper prices, and fewer tourists make it a viable travel option. This is also the season of Khamsin, which are sand storms that can impact travelers to Alexandria and other cities. However, for those willing to brave the heat, cruising the Nile can still be enjoyable with its cool breezes.
Spring
The spring months are mild and sunny and offer a great opportunity to tour Egypt’s iconic attractions without the crowds. This is also a good time to visit Cairo, where you can experience the city’s bustling culture and see the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx in a comfortable atmosphere.
During this time, you can also take a Nile cruise and head to the southern cities of Luxor and Aswan or to Abu Simbel farther north. This is also a great time to go climbing Mount Sinai or explore the Red Sea beaches of Hurghada, El Gouna, and Sharm el-Sheikh.
However, those looking to avoid scorching heat should skip May and June, which are among the hottest months of the year in inland cities like Cairo or coastal destinations like Alexandria and the western desert region of Siwa Oasis. Late September, October, and early November are also nice times for a trip to Egypt because temperatures are warm but not stifling.
Summer
The country becomes sweltering during July and August, making sightseeing and outdoor activities uncomfortable. Even the locals are overwhelmed by the intense heat, so those with young children may want to avoid this time of year. However, the beaches are a great way to cool off during this period.
During spring, hot winds called khamsin can blow in from the desert, increasing temperatures and creating dust storms. Although they are not constant, they may last for a few days and disrupt travel plans.
Autumn (September to November) is an ideal time to visit Egypt, especially in Cairo, as temperatures begin to drop and crowds thin at historical sites. It is also the best time to see the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, as well as the sun rise over Abu Simbel. However, it’s important to note that a large number of Muslims will be observing Ramadan during this period. This means that many restaurants and tourist attractions will be closed at lunchtime and at nightfall.
Fall
The autumn months of October and November are the best time to travel to Egypt. The weather is warm but not stifling, making sightseeing and leisure activities more enjoyable. Prices are also lower than during the summer.
Winter
From December to February, the beach resorts along the Red Sea and the Sinai Peninsula are bustling with visitors and locals alike. The weather is cool, but pleasantly warm, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Numerous pubs and restaurants host events that keep the nightlife lively.
During the spring months from March to May, the climate is mild and pleasant, although it can become hotter as the month progresses. It’s an ideal season for a Nile cruise or touring Cairo’s historical sites. During the summer, the heat can be oppressive, especially in Cairo and most of inland Egypt. Visiting the pyramids and Pharaonic tombs is still possible, but it’s advised to start your day early and take breaks in the middle of the afternoon.