When Is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?
Weather, Crowds & Seasonal Tips by Region
Egypt is a year-round destination—but when you go can make a huge difference in how enjoyable your trip will be. From the scorching summers of Luxor to the mild beach days in Hurghada, this guide breaks down the best times to visit Egypt, where to go in each season, and how to avoid the tourist crowds (yes, it’s possible!).
As someone who’s been traveling to Egypt every year with my Egyptian husband for over a decade, here’s our personal take on when to plan your trip.
Egypt’s Climate at a Glance
Egypt has a desert climate:
- Hot & dry summers (May–September)
- Mild & sunny winters (October–April)
- Almost no rain, but temperatures vary widely by region
Let’s break it down by season:
Autumn (September – November) – Best Overall Time to Visit
Weather:
- Cairo: 25–35°C
- Luxor/Aswan: 30–40°C in early September, cooler by November
- Red Sea: 27–33°C
Why it’s great:
- Hot but manageable temperatures
- Perfect for Nile cruises, pyramids, temples, and desert trips
- Water is still warm for snorkeling/diving
Crowds:
- Fewer tourists in September
- October & November are more popular but still not as packed as winter holidays
Where to go:
✅ Cairo
✅ Luxor
✅ Aswan
✅ White Desert
✅ Red Sea (Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab)
🧳 Anni’s tip: This is our favorite time to visit Hurghada or Marsa Alam. The weather is nice and warm but not too hot.
Winter (December – February) – Best for Sightseeing, not so great for the Beach
Weather:
- Cairo: 15–22°C (can be chilly in the evening!)
- Luxor/Aswan: 20–26°C
- Red Sea: 20–24°C, but windy
Why it’s great:
- Cool and comfortable for intensive sightseeing
- Great for camel rides, pyramids, desert tours
- No sweating while visiting temples!
Downsides:
- Can feel too cool for sunbathing or swimming (especially in January)
- Christmas & New Year’s = high prices & crowds
Where to go:
✅ Cairo, Giza, Alexandria
✅ Luxor & Aswan
✅ Siwa Oasis
⚠️ Red Sea resorts are open but may be too chilly for water lovers
📸 Photo tip: Winter light is softer—ideal for photography at sunrise and sunset.
Spring (March – May) – Best for a Bit of Everything
Weather:
- Cairo: 22–32°C
- Luxor/Aswan: 30–40°C by May
- Red Sea: 25–30°C
Why it’s great:
- Warm but not oppressive (until late May)
- Great for city exploring + beach time
- Desert flowers bloom in March/April—Siwa and Sinai are beautiful
Watch out:
- Khamsin winds in April: dusty, dry windstorms that can limit visibility
- May can get uncomfortably hot in Upper Egypt
Where to go:
✅ Cairo
✅ Red Sea
✅ Siwa or Sinai
⚠️ Luxor & Aswan are best in March or early April only
🐪 Hoss’s tip: Plan outdoor sightseeing in the mornings and chill in shaded cafés in the afternoons.
Summer (June – August) – Only for the Heat-Lovers
Weather:
- Cairo: 35–40°C
- Luxor/Aswan: often over 45°C
- Red Sea: 35°C+, but less humid
Why it’s not ideal:
- Dangerous heat, especially in the south
- Difficult to enjoy outdoor attractions
- Locals take siestas midday—it’s just too hot
When it works:
- If you’re just doing a beach resort holiday at the Red Sea
- Diving and snorkeling are still good
- Prices are lower (off-season), especially for hotels in Luxor or Aswan
Where to go:
✅ Hurghada, El Gouna, Sharm el-Sheikh
❌ Avoid Luxor/Aswan unless you’re used to extreme heat
💡 Pro tip: If you must travel in summer, do all sightseeing early in the morning (think: 5–8 AM!) and rest during the hottest hours.
How to Avoid the Tourist Crowds in Egypt
Best months to beat the crowds:
- Mid-September to mid-October
- Late November to mid-December
- Late February to early March
Avoid these peak times:
- Christmas & New Year (Dec 20 – Jan 5)
- Easter holidays (dates vary)
- School vacation weeks (European + Gulf countries)
⏰ Timing trick: Visit major sites like the Pyramids or Karnak Temple early in the morning (before 9 AM) to avoid buses full of tourists.
Quick Reference: When to Visit Where in Egypt
| Destination | Best Months | Avoid |
| Cairo & Giza | Oct–Apr | June–Aug (heat) |
| Luxor & Aswan | Oct–Mar | May–Aug (extreme heat) |
| Red Sea Resorts | Mar–May, Sept–Nov | Jan (too windy), Aug (too hot) |
| White Desert | Oct–Apr | Summer (heat) |
| Siwa Oasis | Oct–Mar | May–Sept (very remote + hot) |
Final Thoughts: Timing Is Everything
Egypt is always magical—but choosing the right time to go makes it even more memorable. If you want:
- Sightseeing ➝ go in October–April
- Beach time ➝ try March–May or September–November
- Lower crowds ➝ travel just before or after peak seasons
Whether you’re chasing the sun, avoiding the heat, or planning your dream Nile cruise—timing your trip right will help you enjoy Egypt the way it’s meant to be.
Have questions? Leave a comment or DM us—we’d love to help you plan your Egypt adventure!
