How Does Weather & Best Time Work in Egypt?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
October to April is the best time to visit — summers are brutally hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan where temperatures exceed 45°C.
2What You Need to Know
Egypt is warm and sunny almost year-round, which is part of its appeal. The ideal travel window is October through April, when daytime temperatures in Cairo are 18–28°C and sites like Luxor and Aswan are hot but manageable (30–35°C). June through September sees temperatures in Upper Egypt regularly exceed 45°C — sightseeing at Luxor or the Valley of the Kings in July is genuinely dangerous. The Red Sea coast is excellent year-round for beach and diving, with water temperatures staying comfortable even in winter. Sinai desert nights in December and January can be surprisingly cold (near 0°C), requiring warm layers. Cairo experiences occasional cool, foggy weather in December and January.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Book Luxor and Aswan visits for November to February for the most comfortable temperatures at open-air sites
- 2If travelling in summer, visit Luxor and Aswan sites only at opening time (6am–7am) and again in the late afternoon — midday is genuinely dangerous
- 3The Red Sea is wonderful from October to May — water visibility is excellent and air temperatures are perfect for beach activities
Important Warning
Summer heat stroke is a real risk at open-air ancient sites in Upper Egypt. Carry at least 2L of water per person, wear a hat, and do not underestimate the sun.
How does this compare?
Weather & Best Time rules in nearby and similar countries:
Visit October to April for comfortable outdoor weather — May to September is extremely hot and humid with temperatures above 45°C.
October to April is the best time for most of Morocco; summer inland (Marrakech, Sahara) reaches 40°C+ and is brutally hot for most visitors.
Visit October to April to avoid extreme heat — summers regularly exceed 45°C in Riyadh, though the Asir highlands stay cooler year-round.
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