Egypt is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on where you are going and what you want to do. October to April generally brings more comfortable conditions for sightseeing, while December to February is the peak winter period. May to September is much hotter, particularly in Luxor and Aswan. The Red Sea coast stays warm throughout the year, making it a popular choice for beach holidays in every season. If you're planning a trip, explore our Luxury Egypt holidays to find an itinerary that suits your preferred season and travel style.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?
For most travellers, October to April is the most comfortable period to visit Egypt. The cooler weather makes it easier to explore Cairo, the Pyramids and ancient sites, while November to March is particularly well suited to Nile cruises.
December to February is the peak season, with mild daytime temperatures and plenty of sunshine. October, November, March and April are useful shoulder-season alternatives, offering warmer conditions without the intense summer heat found further south.
May to September can be extremely hot in Luxor and Aswan, where daytime temperatures can reach around 40°C or higher in the height of summer.
Egypt Weather at a Glance
|
Month |
Cairo |
Luxor & Aswan |
Red Sea |
Rainfall |
Red Sea Sea Temp |
|
January |
19°C |
22–24°C |
21°C |
Very low |
22–23°C |
|
February |
21°C |
24–25°C |
22°C |
Very low |
22°C |
|
March |
24°C |
29°C |
25°C |
Very low |
22°C |
|
April |
29°C |
34°C |
28°C |
Very low |
23°C |
|
May |
32°C |
38°C |
31°C |
Minimal |
24–25°C |
|
June |
35°C |
40°C |
33°C |
Almost none |
26°C |
|
July |
35°C |
40°C |
34°C |
Almost none |
27–28°C |
|
August |
35°C |
39°C |
34°C |
Almost none |
28°C |
|
September |
33°C |
38°C |
32°C |
Almost none |
27–28°C |
|
October |
30°C |
34°C |
30°C |
Very low |
27°C |
|
November |
25°C |
28°C |
27°C |
Very low |
25–26°C |
|
December |
21°C |
24°C |
23°C |
Very low |
24°C |
Figures are representative climate averages and can vary by location and year. Cairo's daytime averages range from about 19°C in January to 35°C in summer, while Luxor reaches around 40°C in June and July. Hurghada's Red Sea waters remain around 22–28°C through the year.
Best Time to Visit Egypt by Region
Cairo and the Pyramids: October to April is generally more comfortable for exploring the city and spending time outdoors. January and February bring some of the mildest daytime temperatures.
Luxor and Aswan: November to March is particularly suitable for sightseeing and exploring ancient temples and monuments, including many of Egypt's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Summer temperatures can reach around 40°C or more.
Red Sea Coast: Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh can be visited throughout the year. Winter remains warm, while summer brings hotter air and warmer sea temperatures.
Nile Cruises: November to March is a popular period for cruises, when daytime conditions are generally more comfortable for shore excursions. October and April offer warmer alternatives.
Egypt Weather by Month
January: Mild and sunny in Cairo, with warmer conditions around Luxor and Aswan. It can feel like a pleasant spring day compared with a typical UK winter.
February: Similar to January but gradually warmer, making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor visits.
March: Temperatures rise noticeably, with warm days in Cairo and hotter conditions further south. It feels closer to a warm UK summer.
April: Hot and sunny across much of Egypt. Cairo can reach around 29°C, while Luxor reaches about 34°C.
May: Summer heat begins to build, particularly in southern Egypt. Expect hot, dry days and very little rain.
June: Cairo reaches around 35°C, while Luxor can reach about 40°C. This is considerably hotter than a typical UK summer.
July: One of the hottest months, with Luxor around 40°C and Cairo around 35°C. The Red Sea remains hot and sunny.
August: Similar to July, with intense heat inland and warm sea temperatures on the Red Sea coast.
September: Still very hot, although temperatures begin to ease towards the end of the month.
October: A useful transition month, with temperatures becoming more manageable while remaining warm and sunny.
November: Warm days and cooler evenings make this a popular time for sightseeing and Nile cruises.
December: Mild daytime temperatures and plenty of sunshine make it a popular winter escape from the UK, and our Christmas in Egypt guide explains what to expect over the festive season.
Peak, Shoulder and Summer Season in Egypt
December to February is the peak winter season. Conditions are generally mild, sunny and comfortable for sightseeing, but popular attractions and Nile cruise itineraries can be busier.
October, November, March and April sit between the cooler winter and hotter summer periods. These shoulder months can suit travellers seeking warm weather while avoiding the most intense inland heat.
From May to September, Egypt's desert climate brings very hot, dry conditions. The effect is particularly pronounced in Luxor and Aswan, while the Red Sea remains a year-round beach destination. Egypt receives very little rainfall across much of the country; annual rainfall falls to around 5mm in Hurghada and less than 2mm in Aswan.
What to Pack for Egypt
Light, loose clothing is useful throughout the year, particularly during the hotter months. Pack comfortable walking shoes for archaeological sites, along with sunglasses, a hat and high-factor sunscreen, and arrange your mobile data in advance with our guide to SIM cards and eSIMs in Egypt.
For October to April, bring a light jacket or jumper for cooler evenings. If travelling to Luxor or Aswan in winter, layers can be useful because temperatures can drop after sunset.
For visits to mosques, churches and other religious sites, carry a scarf or light cardigan and choose clothing that covers the shoulders and knees where required.
For a holiday combining Egypt's historic sites, Nile cruising and Red Sea resorts, Travoluxury can help you plan your itinerary around the season and your preferred style of travel.
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