Egypt, a land of pharaohs, pyramids, and captivating landscapes, beckons travelers year-round. However, the ideal time to visit depends on your priorities, whether it’s sightseeing, diving, or simply enjoying the Egyptian ambiance. This guide will help you determine When To Travel To Egypt based on your interests and preferences.
Shoulder Seasons (March to May and September): Best for Avoiding Crowds
The shoulder seasons, particularly March, April, and September, offer a sweet spot for travel to Egypt. You’ll encounter fewer crowds at major attractions and potentially snag some deals on accommodations.
While daytime temperatures can still be high in May and September, March, April, and October provide more bearable conditions for those sensitive to heat or traveling with young children.
Late September to October is often considered the best travel season in Egypt, with pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. It’s also a great time for diving, with clear conditions. In Luxor and Aswan, the Nile’s light is soft, perfect for photography. The Western Desert oases host the date harvest.
Unique interior shot of the Ramesses VI tomb in Valley of the Kings, Luxor Egypt
Alt text: Ramesses VI tomb interior, Valley of the Kings, Luxor, showcasing reduced crowds during shoulder season travel.
However, be aware that the khamsin wind, carrying sand, can blow in March and April, causing sandstorms that may disrupt travel plans. Consider adding buffer days to your itinerary to account for potential disruptions. When the Khamsin isn’t blowing, April can be a near-perfect month for exploring Egypt, with warmer evenings ideal for overnight felucca trips from Aswan and camping in the White Desert. May often offers package deals to resorts like Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, El Gouna, and Marsa Alam.
Summer (June to August): Best Time for Diving
Summer in Egypt is characterized by intense heat, with average high temperatures reaching 108°F (42°C). While sightseeing can still be done by starting early (Luxor’s temples and tombs open at 6 am), the Western Desert is best avoided during this period.
This is the peak season for diving enthusiasts heading to Sharm el-Sheikh and the Red Sea coast. The calm, warm sea conditions and excellent underwater visibility make it worth enduring the heat on land.
Scuba divers on a reef at Marsa Alam with yellow butterfly fish
Alt text: Scuba divers exploring a vibrant coral reef in Marsa Alam, Egypt, highlighting the excellent underwater visibility during the summer diving season.
Interestingly, summer is also a popular domestic holiday period along the Mediterranean coast, as many Cairenes escape to the beach. While Alexandria remains hot, the sea breeze offers some respite.
Winter (October to February): Best for Milder Weather
During the Northern European winter, many travelers flock to Egypt to escape the cold and enjoy the beaches of Sharm el-Sheikh and the Red Sea coast.
Most of the country experiences pleasant weather, although Cairo and Alexandria may see some rain. Winter brings blue skies and comfortable daytime temperatures to Luxor, making it ideal for exploring ancient ruins.
Restaurant owner peering out of window in traditional Nubian Galabeya dress in rural Nubian Village, Aswan Egypt.
Alt text: A Nubian restaurant owner in Aswan, Egypt, showcasing the sunny winter weather conditions favorable for tourism.
The Sinai Peninsula and the Western Desert are popular destinations for outdoor adventures like hiking and camel trekking during this season. South Sinai and the Red Sea coast offer opportunities for diving, although sea conditions can be choppy in December, particularly for boat dives. November offers pleasant weather in Cairo for exploring madrassas and mosques. Be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially after dark. Expect higher accommodation prices during the winter peak season, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Boats on the shoreline in Alexandria, Egypt
Alt text: Boats anchored along the shoreline in Alexandria, Egypt, reflecting the city’s draw as a summer coastal destination to escape rising temperatures.
Traveling During Ramadan
Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, shifts annually based on the lunar calendar. If traveling during Ramadan, be aware that tourist sites and most shops may have shorter hours. Many non-tourist-oriented restaurants and cafes open only after sunset. While non-Muslims are not required to fast, visitors should respectfully refrain from eating or drinking conspicuously in public.
