Best Time to Visit Egypt

If you are wondering about the best time to visit Egypt from India, here is the month-by-month guide.

January in Egypt

• Egypt enjoys mild weather in January. Cairo, the heart of this country, sees temperatures from 10°C to 19°C. You can expect minimal rainfall of around 1.6 millimetres. It is an ideal time to explore the ancient wonders without the discomfort of the scorching summer heat.

• The temperatures are slightly higher if you are moving to the south, like Luxor and Aswan.

What to explore?

• Celebrate Coptic Christmas on January 7th. On this day, savour traditional sweets like Kahk el Eid, a special cookie enjoyed with tea.

• The cooler January is perfect for exploring Cairo’s Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

• Attend the Cairo International Book Fair, usually held at the end of January. It is one of the largest and oldest book fairs in the Arab world.

February in Egypt

• February experiences a gentle warmth. Temperature during the day can reach up to 23°C. However, the nights remain cool, often requiring a light jacket. The sun usually sets around 6 PM, providing ample daylight for sightseeing.

• February’s weather also benefits from the low humidity levels. This month is particularly advantageous for tourists exploring the vast stretches of deserts and historical monuments that Egypt is famous for.

What to explore?

• Attend the Sun Festival at Abu Simbel. Enjoy traditional Nubian shows with performances commemorating Pharaoh Ramses II's legacy.

• If you have good taste in art, you will love the Patrons show in Alexandria. The art displayed here captures human emotions.

• Enjoy the 'Devotion: An Earth, Wind, & Fire' concert dedicated to timeless melodies.

March in Egypt

• During this month, temperatures in Cairo range from a comfortable low of 12°C to a moderate high of 23°C. The evenings can be cooler, requiring some warm clothing for nighttime. The weather is predominantly dry, with minimal rainfall averaging around 0.6 mm.

• The best places to explore this time are the Sinai Peninsula and Red Sea coastal areas. You can go for swimming and diving activities.

What to explore?

• Enjoy the ancient Sham El-Nessim festival, which usually falls on the day after Eastern Christian Easter. Try traditional foods like freekeh.

• Attend the Luxor African Film Festival. The festival presents films from across the continent and promotes dialogue and understanding through the art of filmmaking.

• Experience the Siwa Oasis Cultural Festival. It provides a glimpse into the life of this remote desert community.

April in Egypt

• Egypt transitions from the mild spring to the warmer summer season in April. In southern regions, the temperature shoots up. The weather is predominantly dry, with virtually no rainfall.

• In the northern parts, the temperature ranges between 14°C to 30°C. The Mediterranean influence keeps the climate relatively cooler compared to the interior regions.

• Despite the increasing heat, the nights in April remain calm, especially in the desert areas.

What to explore?

• Attend Pharaohs’ Rally. It is an annual cross-desert rally that attracts motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.

• Take a felucca ride on the Nile and see the Philae Temple and the Aswan High Dam in Aswan.

• Visit Dahab for a more laid-back beach experience with excellent spots for diving and windsurfing.

May in Egypt

• In May, daytime temperatures in the capital city range between 17°C and 33°C, while temperatures in the southern regions range between 23°C and 39°C. Rainfall is scarce, averaging about 1 mm for the month, and it is more likely to occur in the north than in the south.

• With an average of 11.9 hours of sunshine daily, the climate is ideal for beach activities and sightseeing, although afternoons can be exceedingly hot. You must stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during peak hours.

What to explore?

• Visit the White Desert to camp under the stars, surrounded by surreal chalk rock formations in the Sahara.

• Visit Alexandria to explore the historical sites and the famous Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

• Go to the Citadel of Saladin and explore this medieval Islamic fortification for panoramic city views.

June in Egypt

• In June, the northern part of Egypt varies from 21°C to 33°C, while southern regions like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh range between 27°C and 42°C. Rain is virtually non-existent during this month. Evening temperatures are more comfortable, making it a preferable time for outdoor activities.

• June is usually less ideal for exploring warmer cities but more favourable for beach destinations due to fewer crowds and lower accommodation costs.

What to explore?

• Just a short drive from Cairo, Ain Sokhna offers sandy beaches and warm waters of the Gulf of Suez. It is ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway.

• In the Sinai Peninsula, you can attend a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars, where you can enjoy authentic cuisine and storytelling.

• Shop at Cairo's famous Khan El Khalili bazaar. This place is less crowded in June, allowing for a more relaxed shopping experience.

July in Egypt

July sees a full complement of sunny days, with no rainy days on average. The sun blazes for about 12 hours per day. This time necessitates precautions against heat-related concerns.

The average temperature range in Cairo and Alexandria is 23°C to 35°C. In contrast, the southern regions witness even higher temperatures, spanning from 28°C to 42°C.

What to explore?

• Visit Pharaonic Village and step back in time at the living museum that recreates ancient Egyptian life.

• Attend the Aswan International Sculpture Symposium. You can witness international artists creating masterpieces in Aswan.

• Egyptians celebrate the anniversary of the 1952 revolution on July 23rd, which resulted in the formation of a modern republic in Egypt. It is a national holiday filled with patriotic events and celebrations.

August in Egypt

• In August, the weather is predominantly hot and arid. The daytime temperatures often soar above 30°C, particularly in southern regions like Aswan, where they can reach up to 42°C. Coastal areas like Ras El Bar offer slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures averaging around 30°C.

What to explore?

• Attend the Wafaa Al Nil. It is celebrated from August 15th to 29th; this festival honours the annual flooding of the Nile River, which brings fertility to the land.

• Go to the Art Festival. It takes place from August 24th to 31st, one of the largest arts festivals in the Arab world.

• Enjoy the thrill of kite surfing in the crystal-clear waters of Ras Sudr.

September in Egypt

• Egypt transitions from the scorching summer heat to more temperate conditions in September. The average high temperature in the capital hovers around 32 degrees Celsius, with lows of 22 degrees Celsius.

• Sunshine is abundant in September, with an average of 12 hours of daylight. The sun rises early, around 5:53 AM, and sets near midnight, giving tourists ample time to explore the country's rich historical sites and natural beauty.

What to explore?

• Go to the Karnak Temple in the morning or late afternoon. It is a vast complex of decayed temples, chapels, towers, and other buildings.

• Visit Ismailia or Port Said and watch ships navigate this historic waterway.

• Go to the Saqqara during this pleasant weather. See the Step Pyramid of Djoser and the surrounding ancient burial grounds.

October in Egypt

• October turns the hot summer into the cooler autumn season in Egypt. This is the optimal month for outdoor actions.

• Cairo's daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 20°C to a warm 29°C. Nights are cooler, with around 20°C. The chance of precipitation is minimal, with an average rainfall of just 0.6 mm.

• Cairo also sees around 11 hours of daylight. The UV index remains high, so precautions against sun exposure are still necessary.

What to explore?

• Explore Dahshur. It is home to the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid.

• Go to St. Catherine's Monastery. It is one of the oldest functioning Christian monasteries.

• Explore Abydos, one of the oldest cities of ancient Egypt.

November in Egypt

• Egypt transitions into its mild winter this month—the daytime temperature in Cairo averages around 24°C and nighttime around 16°C. The temperature gradually decreases throughout the month, with early November warmer and a noticeable coolness approaching the end.

• This cooling trend is more pronounced in southern cities, where daytime temperatures can start at around 89°F and dip to 77°F by the end of the month. Rainfall is minimal this month, except for the northern coast.

What to explore?

• Visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Explore the treasures of ancient Egypt, including Tutankhamun's artefacts.

• Check the dates of the El Gouna Film Festival. It usually occurs in the second half of the year and promotes Egypt's cultural scene by screening regional and international films.

• Attend Pharaonic Wedding. It is a reenactment of ancient Egyptian wedding ceremonies held in Luxor.

December in Egypt

• Egypt has a mild winter climate in December. The average high temperature hovers around 20°C in Cairo, with lows typically reaching 12°C. This temperature gradient is conducive to outdoor activities during the day, while evenings may require light layering to stay comfortable.

• Precipitation in December is minimal, aligning with Egypt's overall arid climate. Cairo, for instance, sees an average rainfall of about 1.6mm.

• The sunshine is also abundant in December.

What to explore?

• Explore the Colossi of Memnon. Stand before the massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.

• Visit Montaza Palace. Stroll through the royal gardens and admire the blend of Ottoman and Florentine architecture.

• December is the ideal month to explore Ras Mohammed National Park. You can learn about the diverse marine life and untouched landscapes.

Peak Season in Egypt

The peak tourist season in Egypt spans from November to February, with the coolest months offering pleasant weather for sightseeing.

During this period, attractions like the pyramids and Nile cruises are particularly popular, leading to higher visitor numbers, especially in December and January.

Shoulder Season in Egypt

The shoulder tourist season in Egypt, ideal for those seeking to avoid crowds while enjoying pleasant weather, typically spans March, April, and September.

During these months, temperatures range from a comfortable 14°C to 33°C.

Off-Season in Egypt

It is the cheapest time to visit Egypt. The off-travel season in Egypt typically lasts from May to August. During these months, the tourist influx is at its lowest, resulting in less crowded attractions.

The summer heat, often exceeding 100°F, deters many tourists, making it a quieter time to explore. However, the intense heat can make daytime excursions challenging, so visiting historical sites early in the morning is advisable.

Travelling to Egypt is a unique experience. From exploring ancient treasures to experiencing fun activities, there is a lot to do in this country.

However, you must have an Egypt visa for Indians before landing on the country's soil.

Also, get travelling insurance to ensure you do not have any trouble in this country. Buying a travel insurance cover provides financial security against trip cancellations, extended stays, and hospitalisation due to injury or illness you contract while in Egypt.

In case you lose your debit cards, the travel insurance provider arranges for funds to pay for necessities as well. To ensure you get coverage from an insurer with a high claim settlement ratio, affordable travel insurance cost, and a smooth claim filing process, buy from Tata AIG.

Is there a particular dress code for visiting religious sites?

Yes, modest dress is required when visiting religious sites. Covering arms and legs is recommended.

What is Egypt's currency?

Egypt's currency is the Egyptian pound, which is divided into 100 smaller units called piastres. When you see prices in Egypt, they might be written with the letters "LE," which stands for "livre égyptienne," the French term for the Egyptian pound.

What are some places to explore in Egypt?

You should see the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx in Egypt. The Valley of the Kings, Luxor's Karnak Temple, and the Temple of Abu Simbel are also amazing.

What language is spoken in Egypt?

The official language is Arabic. However, English is widely understood in tourist areas.

How can I look after my health and safety while travelling in Egypt?

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance, stay hydrated, and have any necessary vaccinations before your trip.

What is the best time to travel to Cairo?

The ideal time to visit Cairo is from March to April or October to November for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.