The best time to visit Egypt

January is one of the best times of year to visit Egypt, with mild daytime temperatures averaging 22°C. It is generally the coldest month, perfect for city sightseeing or visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza without the discomfort of the intense summer heat.

It’s worth noting that, in the western desert during the winter months, the mosquitos and flies are at their worst. Take necessary precautions if exploring these areas.

Temperatures in February are generally warm by day, falling on average to 14°C at night. For those wondering when to go to Egypt to enjoy the historical city of Luxor, February is an excellent choice.

From there you can travel to see the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, when the sun’s rays illuminate the inner sanctum of the Temple of Ramses II. This spectacular event often draws visitors from around the world to join locals celebrating through traditional dance and music.

Remember that in the western desert, mosquitos and flies are still problematic during this month, so prepare accordingly if visiting the region.

March is the best month to go to Egypt for catching the last of the balmy temperatures, before the sweltering summer heat creeps in. Wander through outdoor markets like Khan el-Khalili in Cairo, where you can shop for spices, textiles and traditional crafts, before heading indoors to explore the famed Egyptian Museum.

The khamaseen, a hot and dry wind that can sometimes bring sandstorms, typically begins in March. This can lead to dusty conditions and potential travel disruptions, so it’s wise to stay flexible and be prepared to adjust your plans where needed.

April is the first of the generally hot months in Egypt, although the heat is not as intense as later in the summer. This makes it a good time to visit the country’s coastal areas, such as the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh.

The ancient festival of Sham El Nessim celebrates the arrival of spring and usually falls in April. A national holiday, this festival sees Egyptians picnicking in parks and gardens, as well as decorating baskets of eggs with wishes to hang from trees and houses.

Temperatures average 34°C in May, with around 11 hours of sunshine a day. An ideal month for those wondering when to visit Egypt on a coastal itinerary, the Red Sea region offers world-renowned coral reefs to snorkel and dive in.

May is also a great time to explore Upper Egypt, including Aswan and Abu Simbel, before the summer heat becomes too intense. The Nubian villages near Aswan are particularly charming this time of year with their colourful houses.

Low season begins in June and continues through to August, due to unbearably hot daytime temperatures soaring to 40°C and beyond. If you enjoy the heat, however, you’ll find fewer crowds at popular sites. The Cairo Opera House hosts a summer festival this month, featuring a variety of performances including music, dance and theatre.

The summer solstice on June 21st is a special time to visit the Temple of Karnak in Luxor. On this day, you can witness the sun aligning perfectly with the temple’s central axis, illuminating the sanctuary in a display of ancient Egyptian astronomical knowledge.

Marking the midpoint of the low season in Egypt, July continues to see daytime temperatures upwards of 40°C.

For travellers who can tolerate the heat, July is an excellent time to visit Egypt’s coastal areas. Explore Alexandria‘s rich history, including the modern Library of Alexandria and the ancient Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa.

August concludes the intense heat of the low season, with coastal areas and air-conditioned indoor attractions particularly appealing during this time. For anyone considering when to go to Egypt, exploring the galleries of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza is a must this month. It houses an incredible collection of ancient artefacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.

You may wish to visit Egypt during the Wafaa El-Nil festival, typically held in August. This ancient celebration marks the annual flooding of the Nile and features concerts, art shows and folklore performances along the river.

In September, the temperatures start to cool, but the country still remains very humid and averages around 30°C with zero rainfall. This transitional month is the best time of year to visit Egypt for the balance between the extreme heat of summer and the more pleasant weather of autumn.

The beginning of the best conditions for snorkelling and diving is mid-September. Make your way to the Red Sea Marine Park in Hurghada, where you’ll have the chance to explore one of the region’s most spectacular coral reefs.

October is the best month to go to Egypt for low rainfall and warm autumn weather, with daytime temperatures around 30°C. It marks the transition into the high season of winter, so expect more crowds towards the end of the month.

The second part of the bi-annual Abu Simbel Sun Festival sees locals celebrating as the inner sanctum of the Temple of Ramses II is illuminated by the sun’s rays. Join them for live music, street food and traditional Nubian dance performances outside the temple.

Take note that, during the winter months in the western desert, the mosquitos and flies are at their worst.

November is relatively warm and dry, a perfect month to explore Cairo’s historic district, including the beautiful Mohamed Ali Mosque and the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar. The Cairo International Film Festival often takes place in November, providing a window into contemporary Egyptian and international cinema.

For those wondering when to visit Egypt, November is well matched to a trip through the White Desert National Park. Marvel at its surreal chalk rock formations, before camping under the stars with a local guide.

Prepare accordingly if visiting this region, mosquitos and flies are still problematic during this month.

Thanks to average temperatures of 23°C and generally low humidity, the climate in December makes it one of the best times to go to Egypt. Explore national archaeological treasures such as the pyramids at Giza and the Sphinx in comfort thanks to the cooler weather.

Consider celebrating in Luxor for New Year’s Eve, where many hotels and Nile cruises offer special festivities with views of the illuminated Luxor Temple. The festive period often sees hotels and cruises booked up far in advance, so make sure to plan your trip early.

As with previous winter months, be aware of increased insect activity in the western desert regions.