Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Guide [2026]
When to visit Egypt for comfortable weather at the pyramids, Nile cruises, and Red Sea diving
Photo by George Wang on Pexels
Where
Best time to visit Egypt is October to April, when temperatures in Cairo and the Nile Valley drop to a comfortable 20-28C (68-82F). Summer months (May-September) bring extreme heat exceeding 40C (104F) in Upper Egypt and the desert, making outdoor sightseeing exhausting and potentially dangerous.
The Red Sea coast (Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh) is a year-round destination with water temperatures never dropping below 20C (68F), making it excellent for diving and snorkeling even in winter.
Seasonal Overview
| Season | Months | Temperature (Cairo) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool/Dry | Oct-Feb | 15-25C (59-77F) | Pyramids, Luxor, Nile cruises |
| Warm | Mar-Apr | 20-30C (68-86F) | Last comfortable months, Sinai hiking |
| Hot | May-Sep | 30-42C (86-108F) | Red Sea coast only |
Best Months to Visit Egypt
November and February are the sweet spots. November offers warm days (25C / 77F) without summer's brutality, perfect for exploring the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and cruising the Nile from Luxor to Aswan. Tourist numbers are moderate, and prices are reasonable.
February is similar but slightly cooler, ideal for Cairo and the Giza Pyramids. The weather is comfortable for spending hours at outdoor archaeological sites. March is still pleasant but warming quickly.
December and January attract peak tourist numbers, especially around Christmas and New Year. Nile cruises sell out months in advance, and Luxor hotels reach capacity. Book early for these months.
Quick Travel Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Currency | Egyptian Pound (EGP) |
| Language | Arabic, English in tourist areas |
| Time Zone | EET (UTC+2) |
| Flight Time from NYC | 11 hours direct |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions answered clearly and concisely
November and February are the best months to visit Egypt, with comfortable daytime temperatures for sightseeing, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices compared to the Christmas and New Year peak.
Yes, December is one of the most popular months to visit Egypt thanks to mild weather, but it is peak season. Expect higher prices and book Nile cruises and hotels well in advance, especially over Christmas and New Year.
From May to September, temperatures in Upper Egypt and the desert can exceed 40C (104F), making daytime sightseeing uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe. If you visit in summer, focus on the Red Sea coast where sea breezes and water activities make the heat more bearable.
The best time for a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan is October to February, when daytime temperatures are pleasant for visiting temples and tombs and evenings are cooler on deck.
Yes, the Red Sea remains warm year-round, with water temperatures rarely dropping below 20C (68F). Winter is an excellent time for diving and snorkeling in Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh.