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Best Time to Visit Egypt

The first time I stepped onto Egyptian soil, it was November. The kind of November where Cairo’s breeze felt like early summer back home, and the Nile shimmered in the kind of soft sunlight that photographers chase for years. I remember walking through the vast courtyards of Karnak Temple in Luxor, warm but not sweating, with just enough chill in the morning air to make a scarf feel appropriate—not necessary. It was perfect. Serendipitous, even.

But I’ve also been to Egypt in July, when the heat rolls in like a wave of fire and even the sandstone glows like it’s been baking in an oven. That kind of heat demands respect. It slows your steps, alters your plans, and teaches you quickly why most locals disappear indoors from noon till late afternoon.

Egypt is a country of contrasts—in history, in landscape, and definitely in weather. And when you visit can mean the difference between breezing through tombs in comfort or baking your way across temple courtyards with a bottle of warm water in hand.

In this guide, I’ll help you figure out the best time to visit Egypt based on what matters most to you—whether you’re here to explore ancient ruins, sail down the Nile, dive into the Red Sea, or simply soak up the magic without the crowds. Let’s begin with the golden window that travelers (and locals) agree is the sweet spot.

High Season (October to April): The Golden Months

There’s a reason Egypt shines brightest between October and April. It’s not just the cooler air—it’s the feeling that the entire country has exhaled after the summer heat. The mornings are crisp, the afternoons pleasantly warm, and the sunsets? Like fire melting into honey over palm trees and pyramids.

During this window, the temperature ranges from 20°C to 28°C (68–82°F) in most parts of the country. It’s the time when walking through Luxor’s open-air tombs or climbing to the summit of Mount Sinai at dawn feels invigorating, not punishing. Even Cairo’s constant buzz feels less oppressive, more alive.

One December, I stood at the base of the Great Pyramid in Giza, surrounded by travelers in linen pants and sunhats, a soft wind carrying the scent of roasted peanuts and horse leather from nearby carriage stands. I remember thinking, this is the Egypt people dream about. The air was clear, the light was soft, and everyone—locals and visitors alike—seemed content just to be.

It’s also an ideal time for diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea. Waters around Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are crystal-clear and teeming with life, while the air above stays comfortably warm without turning your wetsuit into a sauna.

What Makes This Season Great:

• Mild temperatures perfect for full-day sightseeing
• Best conditions for Nile cruises, temple visits, and desert tours
• Optimal diving conditions with excellent underwater visibility
• Festive atmosphere during holidays and New Year (though it’s busier)

A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

• It’s the most popular time to visit, so crowds are expected at major attractions.
• Accommodations, especially around Christmas and New Year, book up fast—plan ahead.
• Desert nights (especially in the White Desert or Sinai) can get cold—bring layers.

These months are Egypt at its most generous. The light is golden, the mood is relaxed, and everything—from ancient stones to local smiles—feels just a little more welcoming. If you're coming for the first time and want the classic experience with as few weather worries as possible, this is your season.

Shoulder Season (Late April to Early June & September): For the Smart, Flexible Traveler

There’s a subtle magic to visiting Egypt in the shoulder months. The days are longer, the skies just as blue, and the crowds have thinned—but the real gift? You’ll feel like you’ve caught Egypt in a quieter, more personal moment, just before the heat swells or just after it breaks.

I once visited in mid-May, arriving in Luxor as a handful of spring travelers were checking out and summer hadn’t yet taken hold. The temples felt expansive and quiet. I wandered through the Valley of the Kings in near silence, the only sound the whisper of my guide’s voice and the crunch of gravel beneath our shoes. At night, a Nile breeze cooled the air enough to eat dinner outdoors under a blanket of stars.

Temperatures during this time begin to climb—expect daytime highs between 28°C and 35°C (82–95°F)—but mornings are still pleasant, and if you plan smart (starting your day early and resting during peak afternoon hours), it’s entirely manageable.

And the best part? Your money goes further. Hotels begin to lower rates, day tours are easier to book last-minute, and you’ll often get more one-on-one time with local guides, artists, and hosts.

September brings similar perks. It’s a soft landing after the summer heat, with fewer crowds and a still-warm Red Sea perfect for diving or lazy beach days. This is when the savvy repeat travelers return—and it shows in the relaxed energy of towns like Dahab or Aswan.

What Makes This Season Great:

·        Smaller crowds at major archaeological sites

·        Better deals on accommodations and domestic travel

·        Warmer weather ideal for Red Sea resorts and swimming

·        Golden lighting for photography and sunrise/sunset sightseeing

Things to Keep in Mind:

·        Inland cities like Luxor and Aswan can feel hot by midday, especially in June.

·        Be mindful of hydration and sun protection; Egypt’s dry heat sneaks up on you.

·        Some desert or multi-day hikes may be less comfortable—plan for shade and rest.

If you’re the kind of traveler who values breathing room, likes a deal, and doesn’t mind shifting your schedule to chase the early light, Egypt’s shoulder seasons reward you with space, silence, and still-beautiful conditions.

Low Season (June to August): For Heat-Hardy Travelers and Red Sea Retreats

There’s no sugarcoating it—Egypt in summer is hot. Not just warm, not just sunny—blistering, especially in the south. Temperatures regularly soar past 40°C (104°F) in places like Luxor, Aswan, and the Western Desert. By midday, the air feels thick, the ground radiates heat, and sightseeing turns into a sweaty endurance sport.

But—and this is important—not all of Egypt suffers equally in the summer.

While inland cities bake under the sun, Red Sea destinations like Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam stay remarkably comfortable thanks to coastal breezes and lower humidity. The water is warm, the marine life is vibrant, and the resorts are running full steam with fewer guests.

I spent a week in Dahab one July, diving every morning and sipping watermelon juice by the sea every afternoon. The trick was simple: stay on the coast, move slow, and let the sea do the cooling. Inland sightseeing? That can wait for next time.

For budget travelers, this season has its own kind of gold. Flights are cheaper. Hotels slash prices. You can upgrade to that luxury Nile cruise or beach suite you’d normally skip. And at major sites, there are moments when you might stand completely alone beneath a pharaoh’s gaze.

What Makes This Season Worth Considering:

·        Deep discounts on hotels, tours, and flights

·        Red Sea resorts are ideal—warm water, diving, and breezy evenings

·        Low crowds, even at iconic sites

·        Great for slow, relaxed itineraries

What to Be Prepared For:

·        Extreme heat in Upper Egypt and desert regions—plan accordingly

·        Sightseeing best done at sunrise or just before dusk

·        Many locals observe a slower pace during this season—lean into it

·        Pack smart: sunscreen, water bottle, hat, and light clothing are non-negotiable

If you're planning your trip with beaches and bargains in mind—or if you're returning to Egypt and want to experience it with space and stillness—summer can work. Just respect the heat and adjust your rhythm.

Egypt won’t rush you, especially in August. And sometimes, that’s exactly what makes it special.

Special Consideration: Visiting Egypt During Ramadan

To visit Egypt during Ramadan is to witness the country through a different lens. It’s quieter, slower, more reflective during the day—and then suddenly, joyful and electric after sunset, as the cities come alive with tradition, community, and celebration.

Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. While travelers are not expected to fast, the rhythm of daily life shifts dramatically—and being part of that rhythm, even as an outsider, can be a powerful experience.

I once spent part of Ramadan in Cairo. Streets were subdued during the day, with many restaurants closed or operating on limited hours. But as sunset approached, the air would change. Tables lined sidewalks. Strangers offered dates and water to anyone nearby. Then came the call to prayer, and an almost sacred pause. After that—laughter, meals, music, and movement.

In the evenings, neighborhoods light up with colorful lanterns, known as fanoos, and festive decorations. Families gather for iftar (the evening meal), and markets stay open well into the night. In some cities, especially in Upper Egypt, you might even be invited to join a communal street iftar—a beautiful show of hospitality.

Why Visit During Ramadan?

·        Rich cultural immersion and a deeper connection with daily Egyptian life

·        Unique experiences like night markets, lantern-lit streets, and traditional Ramadan treats (like kunafa and qatayef)

·        A slower, gentler pace ideal for reflection and thoughtful travel

What to Be Aware Of:

·        Restaurants and cafes may be closed or limited during the day, especially in less touristy areas

·        Alcohol is harder to find, and many nightlife spots reduce their hours

·        Shorter business hours for museums, sites, and transport

·        Public etiquette matters: avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight in respect of those fasting

Tips for Ramadan Travel:

·        Pack snacks and water if you’ll be out during the day

·        Book accommodations with breakfast or private dining options

·        Embrace the night! This is when the city truly comes alive

If you're open to slower mornings, deeper cultural understanding, and a truly local rhythm, traveling during Ramadan offers something no other time of year can: a glimpse into the heart of Egypt's spiritual and social fabric.

Final Travel Advice: Let Egypt Meet You Where You Are

Egypt is vast. Not just in geography, but in energy. There’s the pulse of Cairo’s streets, the stillness of the desert, the cool hush of temple walls, and the warmth of Red Sea breezes. The best time to visit depends not just on the weather, but on how you want to experience it.

Do you want comfort and clarity? Go in winter.
Prefer space and stillness? Try the shoulder seasons.
Craving color, culture, and something deeper? Ramadan might surprise you.
Just want to float, dive, and reset by the sea? Summer’s got you covered.

Whenever you go, Egypt doesn’t just open its doors—it opens its stories, its scents, its sounds, and its soul.

You’ll leave with sand in your shoes, light in your eyes, and history on your skin.