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when to visit egypt

Best Time to Travel to Egypt: A Guide for Travelers

Many dream of visiting Egypt’s ancient wonders. But when is the Best Time to Travel to Egypt? Egypt has something for everyone, from the Pyramids of Giza to the beautiful Red Sea coast. Let’s look at the best time of year to travel to Egypt your perfect trip.

Key Takeaways

  • The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April, when temperatures are mild and pleasant.
  • Egypt’s summer months (May to September) are hot but offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
  • Peak tourist season in Egypt runs from mid-October to mid-February, with December and January being especially busy.
  • The Pyramids of Giza are best explored during the cooler months of December to February.
  • The Red Sea coast is ideal for beach activities in the shoulder seasons of October-November and March-April.

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Choosing the Best Time to Visit Egypt

Planning your trip to Egypt means thinking about the best time to go. You need to look at the weather, how crowded it will be, and special events. Knowing when to go can make your trip better.

Factors to Consider

Egypt is warm and dry all year, with temperatures from the 60s to over 100°F. Coastal areas are cooler and wetter in winter. This info helps you pick the best time to visit Egypt, based on what you like and your plans.

Egypt’s Weather Patterns

  • March to May and September to November have nice weather, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s. This is the peak tourist season in egypt.
  • Summer, from June to August, is very hot, often over 100°F, especially inland.
  • January and February are the coolest, rarely below 49°F, offering a break from the heat.
  • Coastal places like Alexandria are cooler and more humid in winter.

Knowing about Egypt’s climate and temperature trends helps you plan your visit. This way, you can enjoy the ancient sites, beaches, and attractions at their best.

best times to visit Egypt

Peak Tourist Season in Egypt

Egypt’s peak tourist season is from mid-October to mid-February. This is when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring. You’ll find more people at places like the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor and Aswan temples.

This season also has festivals and events. These include the Coptic Christmas and the Abu Simbel Sun Festival.

Crowd Levels and Availability

Many visitors come to Egypt during the peak season. This means increased crowds at popular spots. It’s smart to book things early to get what you want.

If you want to avoid the crowds, think about visiting in the shoulder seasons or off-season.

Popular Events and Festivals

  • Coptic Christmas celebrations around January 7th
  • Abu Simbel Sun Festival, which takes place twice a year
  • Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, Islamic holidays that can impact travel
  • Flooding of the Nile Day, celebrated on August 15th

These events let visitors immerse themselves in Egypt’s rich cultural heritage. But, they also mean more people and demand during the peak season.

Location

Average Temperatures (°C)

Alexandria

21°C max / 11°C min

Cairo

21°C max / 11°C min

Luxor

26°C max / 6°C min

Aswan

26°C max / 9°C min

The peak season in Egypt has weather that’s good for exploring. It’s a great time to see ancient sites and enjoy the coast. But, be ready for higher crowds and more demand for places to stay and things to do.

Best Time to Travel to Egypt

Exploring Ancient Sites

The best time to see ancient Egyptian sites is from December to February. The weather is cool, perfect for visiting places like the Pyramids of Giza. But, it’s also the busy season, so expect more people and higher prices.

March, April, October, and November are better if you want fewer tourists. The weather is nice, making it great for exploring ancient Egypt without the crowds.

Beach and Coastal Destinations

For beach lovers, the best time is from October to April. The weather is warm and dry, ideal for places like Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh.

Whether you want to see ancient sites or relax on the beach, Egypt has the perfect time for you. Plan your trip with the weather and tourist seasons in mind for an amazing experience.

Egypt’s Summer Months

The summer in Egypt can get very hot, with temperatures over 100°F. But, it’s still a good time to visit, especially for those who love the coastal regions. The desert climate makes the heat easier to handle than in humid places. Travelers can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds during the off-season. They can also feel the cool breeze along the Nile River and the Red Sea coast.

June through August is the best time for diving in Egypt. The seas are calm and clear, perfect for underwater adventures. The summer is also when there are fewer visitors and lower prices. This makes it a great time to see Egypt’s ancient sites and cultural spots.

But, remember, the average summer temperature in Cairo is about 35°C, and in Aswan, it’s around 42°C. Travelers should be ready for the heat. They should drink lots of water, stay in the shade, and avoid hard activities when it’s very hot.

Exploring Egypt’s Coastal Destinations

In the summer, the coastal areas of Egypt, like Alexandria and the Red Sea resorts, are more pleasant. The cooling breezes from the Mediterranean and the Red Sea help beat the heat. People can enjoy water-based activities like swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.

The Nile River is also a cool place to be. It offers a chance to relax on a cruise and see ancient landmarks and nature. With lower prices and fewer crowds in the summer, it’s a great time for a budget-friendly and less crowded vacation in Egypt.

Shoulder Season for Egypt Travel

The shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are great for visiting Egypt. These egypt off-season and egypt shoulder season months have mild weather. Temperatures are in the 70s to 90s Fahrenheit. There are fewer people around, making it perfect for seeing ancient sites and beaches.

Spring in Egypt

Spring in Egypt, from March to May, has mild weather and fewer people. It’s a great time to see the Sham El-Nessim festival, which marks spring’s start. Daytime temperatures are between 70°F and 90°F, great for exploring and outdoor fun.

Fall in Egypt

The fall months, from September to November, are also ideal for visiting Egypt. With egypt weather by season temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, it’s warm but not too hot. It’s perfect for diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea and visiting ancient sites. You might also find better deals on places to stay and flights during the egypt shoulder season.

Season

Months

Average Temperatures

Crowds

Peak Season

October to February

18°C to 26°C

Larger

Shoulder Season

March to May, September to Early October

14°C to 33°C

Smaller

Low Season

June to August

Up to 42°C

Smaller

Nile River Cruises: Ideal Timing

Exploring Egypt is best through a Nile River cruise. These trips let you see ancient sites by the Nile’s banks. The best time for a Nile cruise is from October to April. This is when it’s cool and the river is calm.

In summer, the Nile gets very hot and humid. This makes the trip less fun. Remember, Nile cruises are very popular in the peak season. So, book early to get your preferred dates and places.

Exploring the Nile’s Wonders

The most loved Nile cruise goes from Luxor to Aswan. It stops at many ancient places. You’ll see the beautiful temples of Dendera and Abydos near Qena. Then, there are the amazing tombs and monuments in Luxor, the huge Kom Ombo temple, and the peaceful city of Aswan.

Some cruises let you visit Cairo too. You can see the famous Pyramids of Giza before or after your Nile trip.

Nile Cruise Season

Ideal Timing

Highlights

October to April

Mild temperatures, calm waters

  • Visit ancient sites along the Nile
  • Explore Luxor, Aswan, and other key destinations
  • Enjoy the comfortable weather

June to August

Scorching heat and humidity

  • Challenging weather conditions
  • Increased demand and higher prices
  • Less enjoyable overall experience

Plan your Nile River cruise in the best season for a great trip. You’ll have a memorable journey through ancient Egypt.

Best Time for Diving and Snorkeling in Egypt

Egypt’s Red Sea coast is famous for its great diving and snorkeling. It has vibrant coral reefs and lots of marine life. The best time to see these underwater wonders is from June to September. During this time, the water is warm, in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.

This is when you’re most likely to see big marine creatures like hammerhead sharks and manta rays.

But you can enjoy the Red Sea all year. Outside of summer, the water is clear and perfect for diving and snorkeling. You’ll find a wide range of egypt diving and snorkeling spots. From the red sea resorts to the amazing red sea marine life.

Red Sea Conditions

The water temperature in the Red Sea resorts changes throughout the year:

  • Spring (March-May): Water temperatures range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius.
  • Summer (June-August): Water temperatures are between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius.
  • Autumn (September-November): Water temperatures decline from 28 to 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Winter (December-February): Water temperatures can drop from 25 degrees in December to 22 degrees in March.

Divers need to pick the right neoprene based on the temperature. You should wear 5mm in spring and autumn and 3mm in summer. In winter, you might need 5mm with a neoprene vest and hood to stay warm.

Season

Water Temperature (°C)

Neoprene Thickness Recommendation

Spring

23 – 26

5mm

Summer

27 – 30

3mm

Autumn

28 – 25

5mm

Winter

25 – 22

5mm + neoprene vest and hood

Avoiding Extreme Heat in Egypt

Egypt is warm and dry all year, but summer gets very hot. Temperatures often hit over 100°F (37.8°C). If you want to skip the extreme heat in egypt, plan your egypt summer travel for October to April. This is when it’s cooler, with highs in the 70s to 90s Fahrenheit (21°C to 32°C).

Those visiting in the egypt hot weather should pack light, breathable clothes and sun protection. Also, plan your day to avoid the hottest part.

The summer in Egypt can be over 30 degrees Celsius (86°F) from May to August. Cairo and the Nile Delta get cooler from October to February, with nights dropping in temperature. September, March, and April are great for the Red Sea, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Here are tips for beating the heat during your egypt summer travel:

  • Plan your sightseeing for early morning or late afternoon/evening.
  • Look for air-conditioned places like museums, restaurants, and hotels during the hottest day parts.
  • Carry a water bottle and drink lots of fluids all day.
  • Wear light, breathable clothes to stay cool and comfy.
  • Use a high-SPF sunscreen and a hat or umbrella to protect your skin.

Plan ahead and adjust your plans to make your egypt summer travel enjoyable and comfy, even in the hottest months.

best times to visit Egypt

Cultural Festivals and Events in Egypt

Plan your visit to Egypt to enjoy its vibrant festivals and events. You’ll find a mix of ancient traditions and modern celebrations. These events highlight Egypt’s customs and beliefs.

Celebrating Ancient Traditions

Egypt’s festivals honor its rich past with a mix of old and new. Don’t miss the West Bank Marathon in Luxor (January/February). Also, the Sham El-Nessim festival in April welcomes spring. And, the Mawlid An-Nobi in October/November celebrates the Prophet Muhammad’s birth.

These events showcase traditional music, dance, and food. They let travelers dive into egypt cultural festivals and egypt ancient traditions. Visiting during these times lets you feel Egypt’s cultural pulse.

Event

Date

Significance

West Bank Marathon

January/February

Celebrates the ancient history of Luxor

Sham El-Nessim

April

Marks the arrival of spring, a 4,500-year-old tradition

Mawlid An-Nabi

October/November

Honors the birth of the Prophet Muhammad

These are just a few highlights from the egypt events calendar. By planning your trip with these events in mind, you’ll dive into Egypt’s lively traditions and customs.

Egypt’s Affordable Travel Dates

If you want to save money on your trip to Egypt, consider visiting from May to August. These months are great for finding deals on flights, hotels, and tours. You’ll also see fewer people at popular spots.

The summer in Egypt can be hot, but it’s dry and has air conditioning. This makes it good for travelers watching their budget. Spring and fall are also good times to visit. They have nice weather and not too many people around.

  • The cheapest time to visit Egypt is in October, November, and from February to April. You can find good deals on hotels and Nile Cruises.
  • Prices go up during Eid-el Fitr Feast after Ramadan, especially in places by the sea like Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada.
  • The summer from May to September is cheaper for trips to the Nile Valley because it’s warm.

Being flexible with your travel dates can help you save money. By visiting during the off-season, you can see Egypt’s sights without spending a lot. So, start planning your egypt affordable travel trip now!

Planning Your Egypt Vacation with Egypt Planners

Choosing when to Discover Egypt is up to you. But, Egypt Planners can make your trip fit your likes and budget. They take care of Nile River cruises, tours, places to stay, and how to get around. With Egypt Planners, your Egypt vacation packages will be perfect, making your trip unforgettable.

Customized Trip Planning

Egypt Planners makes trips special by focusing on what you want. They listen to your travel dreams, whether it’s luxury, family fun, or diving into culture. They know Egypt’s best spots and secrets, so your trip will be full of highlights.

  • Customized Egypt vacation packages that reflect your travel style and budget
  • Seamless arrangements for transportation, accommodations, and guided tours
  • Exclusive experiences and insider access to Egypt’s most iconic sights
  • Personalized recommendations for dining, shopping, and cultural activities
  • 24/7 support and assistance throughout your Egypt trip

Working with Egypt Planners means you get to relax and enjoy your Egypt vacation. They plan every detail for you. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time or you’ve been before. Their knowledge makes sure you have an amazing time in Egypt.

Conclusion

Egypt is a place that’s great to visit all year, but the best time depends on what you want to do. From October to April, the weather is cool and perfect for seeing ancient sites. Summer is great for chilling on the Red Sea coast.

Shoulder seasons let you visit Egypt with fewer people and save money. This guide helps you plan the perfect Egypt vacation. You can enjoy the history, culture, or just the sun.

Start planning your trip now to see Egypt’s magic for yourself. With good planning and flexibility, your Egypt travel recommendations will fit your needs and budget. Working with Egypt Planners can make your trip amazing, making sure you have an unforgettable time in Egypt.

Read our article about Is Nile Cruise Worth It? Discover Egypt’s Magic

 

About the author

Egypt Planners Team is a highly experienced travel agency specializing in memorable trips to Egypt. The team comprises expert travel planners and tour guides with a deep knowledge of Egypt's history, culture, and top tourist destinations.
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