Weather in Egypt: Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips

Let’s Figure Out the Perfect Time for Your Egyptian Adventure

Okay, so you’re dreaming of Egypt – I totally get it! There’s something absolutely magical about standing next to those massive pyramids or floating down the Nile like some ancient pharaoh. Egypt had 15 million visitors last year, which honestly doesn’t surprise me one bit. But here’s the thing – timing your trip right can make or break your experience, and it all comes down to understanding the weather in Egypt.

Sure, Egypt weather is pretty much sunny and warm year-round (lucky them!), and you can visit the major sites anytime. But trust me, there’s a huge difference between wandering around the Valley of the Kings in perfect 70-degree weather versus feeling like you’re melting in 120-degree heat. The weather in Egypt totally changes what you can do and how much you’ll enjoy it.

So I’m gonna break down everything you need to know about Egypt climate patterns – when it’s crazy crowded, when it’s surprisingly cheap, and what activities are actually fun during each season. Whether you’re all about exploring ancient tombs, diving in the Red Sea, cruising the Nile, or catching some cool local festivals, I’ll help you pick the perfect time to go based on the weather in Egypt.

Egypt’s Weather: It’s Not All the Same!

Here’s something that caught me off guard – the weather in Egypt is way more varied than you’d think! Yeah, the Egypt climate is mostly desert and doesn’t rain much, but the temperature differences between regions are pretty wild.

Cairo and the Nile area are actually pretty chill most of the year. Summer gets up to about 95°F, and winter’s around a nice 70°F. Not too shabby for exploring!

Down south in Luxor and Aswan – whoa, that’s where things get intense. Summer can hit over 104°F (I’m talking seriously hot), but spring, fall, and winter are actually perfect for checking out all those amazing temples and tombs.

Up north in Alexandria stays way cooler, especially in winter when it’s only around 64°F. Plus, it’s pretty much the only place in Egypt where you might actually see some rain in winter.

The Red Sea coast (think Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada) is like the Goldilocks zone – warm enough for beach fun year-round, but those ocean breezes keep things from getting too crazy. Winter’s around 70°F, summer hits about 100°F, but it feels way better than inland.

Breaking Down Egypt’s Seasons (The Real Scoop)

Winter (December-February): Prime Time (But You’ll Pay For It)

This is hands-down the best weather you’re gonna get – think perfect 60-77°F during the day. It’s like Egypt’s sweet spot for sightseeing. Just heads up though, evenings can get surprisingly chilly (around 50-55°F), especially if you’re doing a Nile cruise. Pack a light jacket!

But here’s the catch – everyone knows winter’s the best time, so expect crowds. The Pyramids, Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel – they’re all gonna be packed. And yeah, you’ll pay peak season prices, especially around Christmas and New Year (ouch).

What’s awesome in winter:

• Perfect for exploring all those ancient sites without dying of heat
• Nile cruises are fantastic – you can actually enjoy hanging out on deck
• Desert trips become totally doable
• Even beach time at the Red Sea is nice (water’s around 72°F)

Pro tips: Book everything early if you want decent prices. Hit the big sites right when they open (like 8:30 AM) before the tour buses show up. And seriously, bring layers – those desert nights get cold!

Spring (March-May): The Sweet Spot?

Spring’s got some really nice weather – starts mild and gets warmer as you go. March and April are lovely (high 60s to low 80s in Cairo, mid-80s down south). By May though, it’s heating up fast – Cairo hits the 90s and the south gets close to 104°F.

Watch out for the Khamsin winds in March and April – basically hot, sandy windstorms that can make sightseeing pretty miserable for a few days. Not fun when you’re trying to take Instagram pics!

The good news? Way fewer crowds than winter, and prices are more reasonable. By May, you’ll practically have the place to yourself.

What’s great about spring:

• Festival season! Spring festivals, maybe Ramadan with all its cool evening celebrations
• Still good for outdoor stuff and sightseeing (just start early)
• Red Sea gets perfect for swimming and diving by May

Spring survival tips: If you hit Ramadan, some places might have weird hours. Have backup indoor plans for those windy days (Egyptian Museum, anyone?). Pack light, breathable clothes and maybe a scarf for sandstorms.

Summer (June-August): For the Brave (and Budget-Conscious)

Let me be real with you – summer in Egypt is HOT. Like, really hot. We’re talking over 104°F regularly, and it can hit 113-122°F down south. Cairo’s “only” in the high 90s, but still… However, the Red Sea coast stays more reasonable (86-100°F) thanks to those ocean breezes.

But here’s why some people love summer – hardly any crowds and super cheap prices. You can get amazing deals on hotels and tours if you can handle the heat.

Summer’s secret weapons:

• Red Sea diving and snorkeling is absolutely incredible – crystal clear water and perfect temps
• Start your sightseeing at sunrise, hide indoors during the crazy heat (11 AM-4 PM), then come out for sunset

Surviving summer: Drink water like it’s your job. Seriously consider electrolyte supplements. Wear the lightest, most breathable clothes you own. Big hat, tons of sunscreen. And maybe splurge on those air-conditioned private tours.

Fall (September-November): The Underrated Champion

Fall might be my personal favorite! September’s still pretty warm, but by October you get what I call the “Goldilocks weather” – around 86°F in Cairo, perfect for everything. November starts getting busy again as peak season approaches.

Crowds are still manageable in September and October, and prices are reasonable until November hits.

Fall is perfect for:

• All that historical stuff you came to see – temples, tombs, monuments
• Desert hiking (finally comfortable!)
• Nile cruises from October on
• Red Sea activities with perfect air and water temps

Fall tips: Early fall still gets hot midday, so plan accordingly. Pack for warm days but maybe cooler evenings.

Special Stuff to Know About

Ramadan moves around each year (it’ll be Feb 28-Mar 30 in 2025). Don’t let it scare you off! Sure, some places have shorter hours and you won’t find much alcohol, but the evening celebrations are absolutely magical. Plus, it’s often the cheapest time to visit.

There are some cool festivals throughout the year – like the Abu Simbel Sun Festival (Feb 22 and Oct 22) when the sun lights up the temple’s inner room. Pretty spectacular, but also pretty crowded.

What Kind of Traveler Are You?

First timer? Go for November, December, February, or March. You’ll get great weather without the Christmas/New Year craziness.

On a budget? June-September is your friend – just be ready for the heat. May and October are good compromises.

Love taking photos? Early October or late February give you that gorgeous golden light. December and January have the clearest skies.

Hate crowds? Try May, September, or early October. Yeah, it might be hot, but you’ll get way better photos without people in them.

Beach lover? The Red Sea’s great year-round, but June-August is diving paradise.

History nerd? Fall and winter are your seasons, or try Ramadan for the cultural experience.

Adventure seeker? Fall for desert treks, winter for oasis exploring.

What to Actually Pack

General rule: light, loose clothes that cover your shoulders and knees (cultural respect + sun protection).

Winter: Think layers! T-shirts for sunny days, light sweater for evenings, and definitely a jacket for those chilly nights on the Nile. Comfy walking shoes are a must.

Spring/Fall: Light, breathable clothes, something for evening breezes, serious sun protection, and maybe a scarf for sandstorms. Don’t forget swimwear!

Summer: The absolute lightest clothes you own (those fancy moisture-wicking fabrics are worth it), big floppy hat, industrial-strength sunscreen, and a good water bottle. Maybe some electrolyte powder too.

Bottom Line

Look, there’s no “wrong” time to visit Egypt – those ancient wonders have been waiting thousands of years for you, and they’ll be incredible whenever you show up. It really comes down to what matters most to you: perfect weather, smaller crowds, or saving money.

The weather definitely varies a lot depending on when and where you go, but each season has its perks. Do a little planning based on what you want to do most, and you’ll have an absolutely amazing trip.

Whether you do a group tour, go solo, or get a private guide, Egypt’s gonna blow your mind. Just pick your season and go for it!

Quick FAQ

What’s February like weather-wise? Pretty perfect actually – 60-77°F during the day, cooler evenings around 50-55°F. Great for sightseeing!

Is February expensive? Yeah, it’s peak season so prices are higher. Not as crazy as Christmas/New Year though.

How do I avoid winter crowds? Get to places like the Pyramids right at opening (8:30 AM) before the tour buses arrive. Or consider private tours for more flexibility.

Can I visit during Ramadan? Absolutely! The evening celebrations are amazing. Just know some places might have shorter hours and alcohol’s harder to find. Often the cheapest time to go too.

What should I wear in summer? The lightest, most breathable stuff you own. Moisture-wicking fabrics, loose fit, long sleeves and pants, big hat, tons of sunscreen.

Is the Red Sea good year-round? Yep! Though summer (June-August) is absolutely perfect for diving with incredible visibility.

How long should I plan for? I’d say 7-14 days minimum to really see the highlights – Cairo, a Nile cruise, and maybe some Red Sea time or desert adventures.