The Best Time to Visit Egypt: Weather, Crowds, and Costs

January 15, 2026

Deciding on the best time to visit Egypt is the most important decision you will make when planning your trip. The difference between a trip in January and a trip in July isn’t just a few degrees on the thermometer—it’s the difference between needing a light jacket for your Nile cruise and waking up at 4:00 AM to beat the scorching desert sun.

While the general rule of thumb is to visit between October and April, the “perfect” time truly depends on your priorities. Are you chasing the best weather, the smallest crowds, or the lowest prices?

This complete guide breaks down Egypt weather by month, the highs and lows of the tourist season, and when to fly to get the best value for your money.

1. Weather in Egypt: A Seasonal Breakdown

Egypt is a desert country, meaning it generally has two seasons: a mild winter and a hot summer. However, the geography varies significantly between the Mediterranean coast (Alexandria), the capital (Cairo), and the deep south (Luxor/Aswan).

The “Golden Season” (October to April)

This is widely considered the best time to travel.

The Weather: Expect sunny days with highs ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C–26°C). It is perfect for walking around the Giza Plateau or exploring the Valley of the Kings without breaking a sweat.
The Catch: Evenings can be surprisingly cold. In Cairo and on the Nile, night temperatures can drop to 50°F (10°C).
Packing Tip: Bring layers. You will need a t-shirt for the afternoon and a fleece jacket for the evening.

The “Shoulder Season” (March, April, October, November)

Many veterans argue this is the true sweet spot.

The Vibe: It’s warm enough to swim in the hotel pool but cool enough for sightseeing.
The Khamsin Wind: Be aware that in March and April, Egypt can experience the Khamsin—a warm, sandy wind that blows from the desert. It usually only lasts a day or two, but it can turn the sky orange and delay flights.

The Hot Season (May to September)

The Weather: It gets hot. Really hot. In Cairo, highs reach 95°F (35°C), while Luxor and Aswan routinely exceed 105°F (40°C).
Survival Strategy: If you visit during these months, you must adjust your schedule. Sightseeing happens from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Mid-days are reserved for AC, naps, or the pool. Evenings are for markets and dinner.
The Red Sea Exception: This is the prime season for Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. The water is warm, and the sea breeze makes the heat bearable.

2. Crowds: When to Avoid the Rush

The best time to visit Egypt to avoid crowds is unfortunately the time when the weather is hottest.

High Season (December & January)

This is peak tourism. The weather is crisp, making it popular for Christmas and New Year holidays.

Expectations: The Pyramids and King Tut’s tomb will be packed. You may wait in line to enter temples.
Pro Tip: If you travel during this time, pre-book your tickets online for major sites like the Giza Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum to skip the ticket window lines.

Low Season (June to August)

You will have the temples almost to yourself. It is a surreal experience to stand in the Karnak Temple complex with barely another soul in sight—if you can handle the heat.

Ramadan: A Special Cultural Experience

Visiting during the holy month of Ramadan (dates shift 11 days earlier each year) offers a unique look at Egyptian culture.

Pros: Sites are quieter during the day. The evenings are festive, with streets lit up by fanoos (lanterns) and locals breaking their fast.
Cons: Tourist sites close one hour early. Alcohol is harder to find outside of major hotels.

3. Costs: Finding the Cheapest Time to Fly to Egypt

If budget is your primary driver, timing is your best tool for saving money.

The Most Expensive Time: Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter. During these weeks, Nile Cruise prices can double, and hotels charge premium “gala dinner” supplements.
The Cheapest Time: May through September. This is Egypt’s low season. Luxury hotels like the Marriott Mena House or the Old Cataract in Aswan often drop their rates by 30% to 50%.
Flight Deals: The cheapest time to fly to Egypt is typically in November and February (excluding holidays). These months sit between the major holiday rushes, and airlines often lower fares to fill seats.

4. Month-by-Month Quick Guide

January: Coolest month. Peak crowds. Pack a jacket.
February: Sunny and pleasant. Great for Nile Cruises.
March: Warming up. Beware of sandstorms (Khamsin).
April: Excellent weather. Easter crowds can be high.
May: Getting hot. Good hotel deals begin.
June–August: Scorching heat. Lowest prices. Best for Red Sea diving.
September: Heat breaks slightly late in the month. Good value.
October: Perfect weather returns. High season prices start to creep back.
November: Ideal balance of weather and price.
December: Festive atmosphere. High prices and crowds.

The Verdict: When Should You Book?

For the Perfect Trip: Aim for late October or mid-March. You get the “Goldilocks” weather—not too hot, not too cold—and avoid the absolute peak of the Christmas crowds.
For Budget Travelers: Book for September or May. You get luxury experiences for a fraction of the cost, and the heat is manageable if you start your days early.

No matter when you choose to go, Egypt delivers. Whether you are shivering slightly on a felucca in January or sweating before the Sphinx in July, the history remains just as majestic.