Choosing when to go to Egypt is the first step to planning a successful trip. The desert climate makes some months far more pleasant than others, especially if you plan to visit temples and pyramids under the sun. In this guide you will find the best time month by month and tips to organise your trip in the best way.
Egypt's climate in brief
Egypt has a desert climate: very hot, dry summers and mild, sunny winters. Rainfall is almost non-existent, except for brief winter showers along the Mediterranean coast. This means sunshine is practically guaranteed all year round, but temperatures vary greatly between the seasons and across the different regions of the country.
The best time: from October to April
The ideal season for a cultural trip runs from October to April. In these months temperatures are pleasant for visiting Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, with warm but bearable days and cool evenings. It is the perfect time to explore the monuments of Egypt without suffering the extreme heat.
Month by month
- October–November: perfect weather, still warm by the sea and ideal for the temples. Among the most recommended periods.
- December–February: peak tourist season. Mild days (20–25 °C in Luxor), cold evenings in the desert. Book ahead for Christmas and New Year.
- March–April: rising temperatures but still excellent. Watch out for the hot khamsin wind between late March and April.
- May–September: intense heat, especially in the south (over 40 °C in Luxor and Aswan). Suitable only for those seeking the sea and lower prices.
Red Sea: beautiful all year round
Seaside resorts such as Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada and Marsa Alam enjoy favourable weather all year round. Even in winter the water stays warm and the sun plentiful: it is the ideal destination for combining relaxation, sea and diving in the Red Sea region.
Nile cruises
For a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, the best time matches that of the temples: from October to April. In summer sailing is still possible, but visiting sites on land during the central hours of the day becomes tiring because of the heat.
Mind Ramadan
During Ramadan Egypt remains open to visitors, but some restaurants and services reduce their daytime hours. The evening atmosphere is charming and tourist sites stay open: check the dates before leaving by consulting our Practical Info page.
In summary
If you are looking for the best time to visit Egypt from a cultural point of view, aim for October–April. If your goal is the sea, the Red Sea awaits you all year round. Whatever season you choose, take a look at our itineraries and travel offers to leave with the solution that suits you best.
