Best Time to Travel to Egypt: Month-by-Month Weather Guide & Seasonal Planning

Best Time to Travel to Egypt

Egypt weather patterns determine successful Egypt vacations, where timing Egypt trips around comfortable temperatures, manageable crowds, and Egypt cultural festivals transforms challenging desert heat into pleasant Egypt sightseeing while avoiding peak Egypt tourism costs and Egypt Ramadan restaurant closures. Understanding the best time to visit Egypt requires balancing Egypt’s extreme temperature variations—scorching 100°F+ (38°C+) summer heat making Egypt pyramid exploration grueling versus mild 70°F (21°C) winter afternoons creating ideal Egypt conditions—with Egypt peak season pricing (30-50% hotel increases November-February), Egypt shoulder season sweet spots (March-May, September-October), and Egypt Ramadan dates 2026 (February 18-March 19) affecting Egypt restaurant hours and Egypt travel logistics. This comprehensive Egypt weather guide 2026 breaks down Egypt climate month-by-month, reveals optimal Egypt travel windows for Egypt pyramids, Egypt Nile cruises, Egypt Red Sea diving, and Egypt festivals, plus provides practical Egypt packing advice and Egypt cost considerations helping travelers choose perfect Egypt timing matching personal Egypt priorities and travel styles.

Egypt’s primarily desert landscape creates dramatic Egypt seasonal extremes where Cairo experiences 40°F (22°C) temperature swings between January lows of 50°F (10°C) and August highs of 95°F (35°C), while Upper Egypt destinations Luxor and Aswan reach oppressive 104-106°F (40-41°C) summer peaks making Egypt southern sightseeing genuinely dangerous without extreme heat precautions. However, Egypt remains year-round destination depending on Egypt activities—Egypt Red Sea resorts maintain comfortable 84°F (29°C) summer maximums perfect for Egypt diving when Cairo swelters, Egypt winter festivals including Coptic Christmas and Abu Simbel celebrations enhance cultural Egypt experiences, and Egypt shoulder seasons deliver budget-friendly Egypt pricing with comfortable Egypt weather balancing temperature extremes and crowd levels. Whether prioritizing Egypt budget travel during slow summer months, optimal Egypt weather in spring/fall, or Egypt winter peak season accepting higher Egypt costs for perfect Egypt conditions, this Egypt seasonal guide provides month-by-month Egypt recommendations ensuring informed Egypt timing decisions.

Egypt Spring (March-May): Shoulder Season Sweet Spot

March Egypt weather and conditions

March marks Egypt’s spring transition from cool Egypt winter to warming Egypt spring, with Cairo temperatures ranging 55-75°F (13-24°C), Luxor reaching 60-86°F (16-30°C), and Egypt Red Sea resorts comfortable at 68-79°F (20-26°C) creating pleasant Egypt sightseeing conditions across all regions. March Egypt weather suits travelers wanting warm Egypt afternoons for Egypt pyramid exploration without oppressive summer heat, though March evenings still require light jacket especially in Cairo and Alexandria where Mediterranean influence moderates daytime heat but creates chilly Egypt nights.

March Egypt advantages:

• Comfortable Egypt temperatures ideal for full-day Egypt temple and pyramid visits without heat exhaustion risk
• Egypt shoulder season pricing: hotels cost 20-30% less than December-February Egypt peak season
• Egypt crowds thinning as winter Egypt tourists depart but summer Egypt low season hasn’t begun
• Egypt wildflowers blooming in desert creating unexpected Egypt landscape beauty
• Egypt Ramadan 2026 begins February 18, ending March 19—most March falls during Ramadan requiring Egypt restaurant awareness and cultural sensitivity

March Egypt disadvantages:

• Ramadan through March 19: Many Egypt cafés and restaurants closed during daylight hours, limited Egypt dining options until sunset iftar meals, some Egypt attractions maintain reduced hours​
• Occasional Egypt sandstorms (Khamsin winds) begin late March bringing dusty conditions and reduced Egypt visibility
• Egypt spring break crowds arrive late March from European and American schools increasing Egypt hotel demand

March Egypt festivals: Sham al Nessim (Coptic spring festival) celebrates spring arrival with Egypt picnics in parks and riverbanks—timing varies based on Coptic Easter calendar typically falling April but occasionally late March. This ancient Egypt celebration dating pharaonic times continues as beloved Egypt tradition where families enjoy outdoor feasts.​

April Egypt weather: ideal spring conditions

April delivers Egypt’s finest spring weather with Cairo averaging 60-84°F (16-29°C), Luxor warming to 68-97°F (20-36°C), and Egypt Red Sea reaching perfect 72-84°F (22-29°C) for Egypt diving and swimming. “I visited this past April and although it was warm, it wasn’t unbearable by any means” confirms April’s Egypt sweet spot balancing warm Egypt days with manageable Egypt heat levels allowing active Egypt sightseeing without summer’s oppressive temperatures.

April Egypt Red Sea highlights: “April and May are also considered to be the best months to enjoy the Red Sea for diving, swimming, and soaking up the Egyptian sun” makes April optimal Egypt timing for combining Cairo pyramids with Red Sea diving in Sharm el-Sheikh or Hurghada. April Egypt underwater visibility peaks, Egypt coral reefs showcase vibrant colors, Egypt sea temperatures reach comfortable 73-75°F (23-24°C) requiring minimal wetsuit, and Egypt marine life activity increases as water warms.​

April Egypt Khamsin wind warning: “However, there is a chance you will experience the Khamsin Wind—a minor yet hot sandstorm that sweeps through Egypt during April and May” represents April’s primary Egypt weather challenge. Khamsin (Arabic for “fifty,” representing 50-day period) brings hot dusty winds from Sahara creating hazy Egypt skies, reduced Egypt visibility for photography, gritty Egypt conditions, and occasional Egypt flight delays. Khamsin typically lasts 1-3 days when occurring, then clears revealing brilliant Egypt blue skies.​

April Egypt festivals: Sham al Nessim occurs Easter Monday on Coptic calendar (typically April), celebrating spring with Egypt-wide picnics, traditional Egypt foods like fesikh (fermented fish), colored eggs, and outdoor gatherings in Cairo parks and Nile riverbanks. This Egypt national holiday creates festive atmosphere but increases Egypt domestic tourism crowding popular parks.​

April Egypt costs: Egypt shoulder season rates continue with Egypt hotels 25-35% cheaper than winter peak, Egypt Nile cruises offering last-minute deals, and Egypt tour operators negotiable on Egypt guide prices given reduced Egypt international tourist demand.

May Egypt weather: warming toward summer

May transitions Egypt from comfortable spring to approaching summer heat, with Cairo reaching 65-91°F (18-33°C), Luxor warming to 73-100°F (23-38°C), and even Egypt Red Sea resorts hitting 77-88°F (25-31°C) creating noticeably warmer Egypt conditions. May remains viable Egypt travel month but requires heat awareness—midday Egypt sightseeing becomes challenging especially Luxor and Aswan where temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C) regularly.

May Egypt strategies:

• Schedule Egypt temple and pyramid visits early morning (7-10 AM) before peak heat
• Afternoon Egypt hotel pool breaks or air-conditioned Egypt museum visits
• Evening Egypt Nile cruises and sunset Egypt activities when temperatures moderate
• Hydration discipline drinking 3-4 liters water daily preventing Egypt heat exhaustion
• Lightweight, breathable Egypt clothing in light colors reflecting heat

May Khamsin continuation: Khamsin winds persist through May bringing periodic Egypt sandstorms, though frequency and intensity typically decrease compared to April peaks.

May Egypt advantages: Very affordable Egypt pricing as summer low season approaches, nearly empty Egypt attractions allowing private Egypt pyramid experiences impossible during Egypt winter crowds, excellent Egypt Red Sea conditions before summer heat peak.

May Egypt costs: Egypt hotels drop to summer low season rates (40-50% below winter peak), Egypt Nile cruises heavily discounted seeking passengers, Egypt domestic flights cheap as Egypt Air reduces fares stimulating summer Egypt tourism.

Egypt Summer (June-August): Extreme Heat & Empty Sites

June-August Egypt weather reality

Egypt summer brings genuinely extreme heat with Cairo averaging 95°F (35°C) and regularly exceeding 100°F (38°C), while Luxor and Aswan reach scorching 104-106°F (40-41°C) creating dangerous Egypt sightseeing conditions without serious heat precautions. “In summer, temperatures reach an average of 95 degrees and are met with extremely intense humidity. If you’re willing to face the heat, this is one of the best times to visit the country as many people choose to avoid it” captures Egypt summer’s double-edged reality—oppressive Egypt heat but minimal Egypt crowds.

Egypt summer honest assessment: “Let’s face it, climbing into a tomb in 100-degree weather can be very draining and many of the top attractions are located in the southern part of Egypt, which is even warmer than Cairo. But don’t let me scare you away from it yet” acknowledges Egypt summer challenges while noting Egypt summer visit remains possible with proper Egypt heat management.​

Egypt summer advantages:

• Empty Egypt attractions: Pyramids of Giza, Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple virtually tourist-free allowing incredible Egypt photography and intimate Egypt experiences
• Rock-bottom Egypt pricing: Egypt hotels cost 40-60% less than winter, Egypt tours desperate for clients offering major Egypt discounts, Egypt Nile cruises at lowest annual rates
• Egypt Red Sea resorts comfortable: “If you are staying at a Red Sea resort, where the temps typically only reach to be around 84 degrees” makes Egypt summer viable for Egypt beach vacations combining morning Egypt sightseeing with afternoon Egypt diving and resort relaxation​
• Longer Egypt daylight hours extending Egypt activity windows

Egypt summer survival strategies:

• Book Egypt hotels with reliable air conditioning and pools: “If your hotel has air conditioning and a swimming pool or you fancy cruising up the Nile, you’ll have a very enjoyable time”—Egypt AC becomes non-negotiable summer necessity​
• Visit major Egypt attractions at sunrise (5-6 AM) before heat peaks
• Schedule 12-4 PM Egypt hotel retreat avoiding deadly midday heat
• Evening Egypt activities: sunset Egypt Nile cruises, nighttime Egypt sound-and-light shows, late dinner at Egypt rooftop restaurants
• Aggressive Egypt hydration plus electrolyte replacement preventing heat stroke
• Hire Egypt private drivers with AC vehicles avoiding Egypt public transport heat exposure

Egypt summer Ramadan considerations

Egypt Ramadan dates vary annually based on Islamic lunar calendar—while recent years placed Ramadan May-July, Ramadan 2026 occurs February 18-March 19 and Ramadan 2027 will fall February 8-March 9, meaning summer 2026-2027 avoids Ramadan entirely. However, future Egypt summer trips may coincide with Ramadan requiring additional Egypt planning.

Egypt Ramadan summer impact: “Tourists aren’t expected to fast, but many businesses close for much of the day; keep in mind that many cafes and restaurants don’t even open their doors during the daylight. At the end of the month of fasting, Muslims celebrate at Eid al Fitr (Feast of Sacrifice), a religious festival that lasts for four days” explains Egypt Ramadan challenges—limited Egypt daytime dining options, reduced Egypt business hours, but spectacular Egypt evening celebrations and cultural immersion.

Egypt summer festivals

Wafaa Al Nil (August): Ancient Egypt festival devoted to Nile River featuring art competitions, poetry readings, concerts, and scientific discussions about Nile health and pollution. This Egypt celebration honors Nile’s essential role in Egypt civilization past and present.​

Egypt Art Festival (August): Cultural events showcasing Egypt contemporary art, performances, and creative expressions across Cairo and other Egypt cities.​

Egypt summer verdict

Skip Egypt summer unless: Budget-focused accepting heat discomfort for 50%+ Egypt savings, planning Egypt Red Sea resort vacation spending minimal time at inland Egypt monuments, or work/family obligations forcing Egypt summer timing. Egypt summer visits require serious heat tolerance, flexible Egypt schedules allowing morning-only Egypt sightseeing, and acceptance that Egypt experience differs dramatically from comfortable Egypt shoulder/winter seasons.

Egypt Fall (September-October): Autumn Sweet Spot Returns

September Egypt weather transition

September begins Egypt’s fall cooling from summer extremes, with Cairo averaging 73-91°F (23-33°C), Luxor at 75-100°F (24-38°C), and Egypt Red Sea maintaining summer warmth at 79-90°F (26-32°C). “Much like spring, fall in Egypt brings cooler temperatures and affordable prices. Though it’s still warm out, the sea breeze picks up, making it much more bearable” captures September’s Egypt improvements over brutal summer while maintaining warm Egypt conditions.

September Egypt advantages:

• Temperatures decreasing weekly throughout September creating noticeably cooler Egypt by month end
• “The Mediterranean Sea is still warm yet uncrowded so beach conditions are ideal” for Egypt Alexandria coastal visits and Egypt Red Sea diving​
• Egypt shoulder season pricing continues with Egypt hotels 30-40% below winter peak
• Egypt attractions remain relatively empty as September sits between summer Egypt low season and winter Egypt peak season
• Egypt fall colors begin appearing in oasis regions and Nile Delta

September Egypt considerations:

• Early September retains summer heat especially Upper Egypt—temperature relief increases late September
• Some Egypt hotels and Egypt Nile cruises undergo maintenance preparing for Egypt winter season
• Egypt domestic tourism increases as Egyptian families travel during school breaks

September Egypt festivals: Wafaa Al Nil if celebrated September timing (varies annually) honoring Nile River through Egypt cultural events.​

October Egypt weather: fall perfection

October delivers Egypt’s second seasonal sweet spot alongside April, with Cairo perfect at 68-84°F (20-29°C), Luxor comfortable 70-95°F (21-35°C), and Egypt Red Sea maintaining warm 77-88°F (25-31°C) swimming conditions. October balances Egypt warm days allowing comfortable Egypt sightseeing with cooling evenings creating pleasant Egypt outdoor dining and Egypt evening activities.

October Egypt advantages:

• Ideal Egypt temperatures across all regions—neither too hot (summer) nor requiring jackets (winter)
• “Sea breeze picks up, making it much more bearable” along Egypt coasts creating comfortable Egypt Mediterranean and Red Sea conditions​
• Egypt crowds minimal before November Egypt peak season begins
• Egypt photography light perfect with autumn clarity and moderate Egypt temperatures preventing heat haze
• Egypt hotel rates still shoulder season affordable before Egypt winter price increases

October Egypt festivals:

• Abu Simbel Festival (October 22): Celebrates sun alignment penetrating Abu Simbel temple inner sanctum illuminating Ramesses II statues—spectacular Egypt phenomenon occurring twice yearly (also February 22)
• Pharaonic Wedding (October): Traditional Egypt celebration recreating ancient pharaonic wedding ceremonies​
• Moulid Al-Nabi (October): Islamic celebration honoring Prophet Muhammad’s birthday with Egypt-wide festivities​
• Moulid of El-Hussein (October or December depending on Islamic calendar): Religious festival at Hussein Mosque in Cairo featuring Egypt Sufi ceremonies, markets, traditional sweets​

October Egypt verdict: Along with April, October represents optimal Egypt timing balancing perfect Egypt weather, manageable Egypt crowds, affordable Egypt costs, and Egypt cultural festivals creating rich Egypt experiences. Book October Egypt trips 2-3 months ahead as savvy Egypt travelers increasingly target October’s advantages.

Egypt Winter (November-February): Peak Season Excellence

November Egypt weather: winter begins

November transitions Egypt into peak winter tourism season as temperatures cool to Cairo’s 61-77°F (16-25°C), Luxor’s 63-86°F (17-30°C), and Egypt Red Sea’s comfortable 72-82°F (22-28°C) creating ideal Egypt sightseeing conditions. November sees rapid Egypt tourism increase as European and North American travelers escape approaching winter seeking Egypt warmth and sunshine.

November Egypt advantages:

• Comfortable Egypt temperatures perfect for full-day Egypt activities without heat concerns
• Egypt winter sunshine (8-9 hours daily) providing excellent Egypt photography light
• All Egypt attractions operating full schedules with extended Egypt hours
• Egypt Nile cruises at peak operation with newest Egypt cruise ships deployed

November Egypt considerations:

• Egypt prices begin rising toward winter peak rates
• Egypt Christmas/New Year bookings accelerate requiring advance Egypt hotel reservations
• Egypt crowds increasing weekly throughout November

November Egypt festivals: Egyptian National Day (November): Celebrates Egypt national pride with parades, cultural events, and Egypt-wide festivities.​

December-January Egypt weather: winter peak

December and January represent Egypt’s absolute peak tourism season, with Cairo averaging 55-70°F (13-21°C), Luxor at 50-77°F (10-25°C), and even Egypt Red Sea cooling to 64-75°F (18-24°C) requiring light wetsuit for extended Egypt diving. “Winter is the peak season for tourism in Egypt. Because the weather has cooled, tourists flock to the ancient sites, making the lines longer and the hotel prices skyrocket” captures Egypt winter’s excellent weather combined with maximum Egypt crowds and costs.

Egypt winter temperature reality: “The coldest month in Egypt is typically January, when temperatures are cooler, particularly in northern regions and at higher elevations. Average lows range from around nine °C to 12°C (48°F to 54°F), and highs average between 18°C and 21°C (64°F to 70°F)” means Egypt winter evenings genuinely cold requiring warm layers.​

Egypt winter packing essential: “Regardless of when in winter you decide to visit, pack long-sleeved shirts, jeans, and a jacket. The evenings can get extremely chilly” emphasizes Egypt winter clothing requirements surprising travelers expecting perpetual Egypt heat. Cairo and Alexandria experience 45-50°F (7-10°C) winter evenings, while desert Egypt locations including Luxor and Aswan see 40-45°F (4-7°C) overnight lows.​

Egypt Christmas and New Year pricing: “During Christmas and New Years, hotels and cruises raise their rates significantly and they book up far in advance so you’ll want to plan accordingly”—Egypt hotels increase 50-100% for holiday weeks December 20-January 5, Egypt Nile cruises triple prices, and Egypt tour guides book solid requiring 6+ months advance Egypt reservations.​

January Egypt festivals and events

Coptic Christmas (January 7): Egypt’s Coptic Christian minority (10-15% Egypt population) celebrates Christmas on January 7 per Coptic calendar. “At midnight, worshippers gather for mass and enjoy a feast together” creating special Egypt cultural experience. Cairo’s Coptic quarter in Old Cairo becomes focal point for Egypt Christmas celebrations.

February Egypt weather and Ramadan 2026

February maintains Egypt winter conditions with Cairo at 54-72°F (12-22°C), Luxor warming to 52-79°F (11-26°C), and Egypt Red Sea at 64-75°F (18-24°C) creating comfortable Egypt temperatures. However, February 2026 requires special Egypt planning as Ramadan 2026 begins February 18, continuing through March 19 affecting Egypt travel dynamics significantly.

Ramadan 2026 Egypt impact:

• Egypt restaurants closed daytime with sunset iftar openings creating Egypt dining challenges
• Egypt attraction hours potentially reduced
• Egypt cities transform evenings with Ramadan decorations, festive atmosphere, and special Egypt cultural experiences
• Egypt hotels maintain normal operations serving non-Muslim Egypt guests
• Unique Egypt cultural immersion opportunity witnessing authentic Egypt Ramadan traditions

February Egypt festivals: Abu Simbel Festival (February 22): Sun alignment event at Abu Simbel temple when rays penetrate 200 feet illuminating inner sanctuary statues—occurring twice yearly alongside October 22 celebration. This Egypt solar phenomenon demonstrates ancient Egyptian architectural and astronomical mastery.

Egypt winter verdict

Egypt winter (November-February) delivers optimal Egypt weather with comfortable 70-80°F (21-27°C) daytime temperatures perfect for Egypt pyramid climbing, Egypt temple exploration, and Egypt Nile cruising without heat concerns. Accept Egypt winter trade-offs: 30-50% higher Egypt costs, crowded Egypt major attractions requiring early visits, and advanced Egypt booking requirements. Winter suits travelers prioritizing perfect Egypt weather over budget Egypt considerations, first-time Egypt visitors wanting ideal Egypt introduction, and Egypt Christmas/New Year celebrants accepting premium Egypt holiday pricing.

Egypt Year-Round Considerations & Planning Tips

Egypt Ramadan planning (varies annually)

“The biggest thing to keep in mind while visiting is Ramadan, a holy month of fasting. While the last years Ramadan has been in May, June, and July—it can actually fall at any time of the year due to the differences in the Muslim calendar vs the Western calendar. So make sure to check on this!” emphasizes Egypt Ramadan’s shifting dates requiring verification for every Egypt trip.

Ramadan 2026 Egypt dates: February 18-March 19, 2026
Ramadan 2027 Egypt dates: February 8-March 9, 2027 (approximate)

Egypt Ramadan travel strategies:

• Book Egypt hotels with on-site restaurants serving non-Muslim guests during Ramadan daylight hours
• Carry water and snacks for Egypt sightseeing days when street vendors closed
• Respect Egypt Muslims fasting by avoiding public eating/drinking when possible
• Embrace Egypt Ramadan cultural experience through evening iftar meals and festive Egypt atmosphere
• Expect some Egypt tours and attractions operating reduced Ramadan schedules

Egypt regional weather variations

Cairo and Lower Egypt: Mediterranean influence moderates Cairo temperatures creating cooler winters (50-70°F/10-21°C) and slightly milder summers (85-95°F/29-35°C) than Upper Egypt.

Luxor and Upper Egypt: Desert location creates extreme Egypt temperatures with hotter summers (95-105°F/35-41°C) and warm winters (65-85°F/18-29°C).

Egypt Red Sea coast: Coastal position maintains moderate Egypt temperatures year-round with comfortable summers (84-90°F/29-32°C) and mild winters (68-77°F/20-25°C) perfect for Egypt diving.

Egypt Alexandria: Mediterranean coastal city features coolest Egypt summers (79-84°F/26-29°C) and mild winters (55-68°F/13-20°C) with higher Egypt humidity and occasional winter rain.​

Egypt best time verdict by activity

Egypt pyramids and temples: October-April for comfortable Egypt sightseeing temperatures, with October and April sweet spots balancing Egypt weather and Egypt crowds.

Egypt Nile cruises: November-March peak season ensuring full Egypt cruise ship operation and perfect Egypt weather, though April and October provide excellent Egypt shoulder season alternatives.

Egypt Red Sea diving: April-May and September-October for optimal Egypt underwater visibility, comfortable Egypt water temperatures, and reduced Egypt crowds versus summer heat or winter peak pricing.

Egypt budget travel: June-August summer low season offering 40-60% Egypt savings accepting oppressive Egypt heat, or May and September Egypt shoulder months balancing reasonable Egypt prices with manageable Egypt temperatures.

Egypt festivals and culture: Align Egypt visits with Abu Simbel sun alignment (February 22, October 22), Egypt Coptic Christmas (January 7), or Egypt traditional celebrations like Sham al Nessim (April) experiencing Egypt beyond pure sightseeing.

Choosing Your Perfect Egypt Travel Window

Egypt rewards strategic seasonal planning where choosing optimal Egypt timing dramatically impacts Egypt experience quality, Egypt costs, and Egypt enjoyment levels. “Though it may not seem like it, Egypt is a year-round destination depending on your ideal activities during your visit” captures Egypt’s flexibility—perfect Egypt weather exists if you know when to visit for your specific Egypt priorities. For most Egypt first-time visitors, October and April represent ideal Egypt travel months balancing comfortable 70-85°F (21-29°C) Egypt temperatures, shoulder season Egypt pricing 25-35% below winter peak, manageable Egypt crowds allowing uncrowded Egypt pyramid photography, and Egypt cultural festivals enriching Egypt experiences beyond pure sightseeing.

Egypt winter (November-February) delivers absolute best Egypt weather with perfect 65-75°F (18-24°C) days but requires accepting Egypt peak season realities—hotels costing 40-60% more than summer, Egypt major attractions crowded with tour groups, and Egypt Christmas/New Year rates doubling or tripling normal Egypt costs. Egypt summer (June-August) suits only budget-focused Egypt travelers accepting genuinely dangerous 100-105°F (38-41°C) heat for 50%+ Egypt savings, or Egypt Red Sea resort vacationers spending minimal time at scorching inland Egypt monuments. “Whether you’re looking to lounge by the sea, visit the ancient pyramids, or soak up the celebration of the Egyptian festivals, there’s a time to visit for absolutely everyone!” encourages matching Egypt timing to personal Egypt priorities rather than blindly following peak season crowds—sometimes Egypt’s best experiences occur when fewer travelers brave shoulder season Khamsin winds or summer heat discovering empty Egypt temples and authentic Egypt cultural immersion impossible during tourist-saturated Egypt winter months.