Best Time To Visit Egypt
Egypt, with its stunning pyramids, unique markets, and the calm flow of the Nile River, is a country where you feel as if past and present are together. If you're thinking of planning a trip to Egypt, it helps to know the time in Egypt, since the country follows Eastern European Time (UTC +2). For travelers making international calls, the +20 country code is what you'll need to stay connected with hotels, guides, or tour operators. But beyond these practical details, the biggest question for people going to Egypt is, What is the best time to visit Egypt? The answer depends a lot on what type of experience you want from your trip, as each season has its pros and cons.
Spring (March to May): Comfortable and Pleasant
Spring is one of the most enjoyable seasons in Egypt. The climate is warm but not too hot, with temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, making your visit to the Pyramid of Giza, exploring the iconic ancient temples of Luxor, and taking a Nile cruise much more comfortable than hotter days. Cairo's parks and gardens also come alive with greenery, making the atmosphere even more inviting.
It is said that sometimes in Egypt, the spring season brings with it Khamsin winds that sweep across the desert. They do not last long, but can reduce visibility considerably and cause minor disruptions. Tourist sites also get crowded as many countries have spring vacations. Still, many travellers prefer the spring season because of the good weather.
Summer (June to August): Hot but Budget-Friendly
If you don't mind the heat, summer can be a good time to visit Egypt. In Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan), the temperature can go up to above 40°C, which makes exploring in the afternoon quite challenging. Summer is the season with fewer crowds in Egypt, resulting in less accommodation and flight prices.
There is no doubt that the heat in Egypt will be pretty challenging. But if you plan wisely, you can still enjoy a lot of activities if you go for a trip in the morning or evening. Coastal cities like Alexandria or Red Sea resorts like Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada remain more pleasant because of the sea breeze. For those with a limited budget, the summer season is the best time to visit Egypt.
Autumn (September to November): Perfect Balance
Autumn is often seen as one of the best times to visit Egypt. The temperature becomes quite comfortable, ranging from 25°C to 35°C. As such, temples, museums, and desert landscapes are pretty enjoyable. In the autumn season, the crowd is less than in winter, which is why you can visit places like Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings without any hassle.
On the other hand, the only drawback is that September can still seem hot, especially in southern Egypt. Also, the tourist season comes to a close gradually, and prices start increasing in comparison to summer. But overall, autumn can be a sweet spot for you to visit Egypt - mild climate, fewer crowds than winter.
Winter (December to February): Popular and Lively
Tourism in Egypt is at its peak in the winter. In winter, temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, making exploring extremely comfortable. It's the perfect time to stroll through the Cairo markets, ride camels near the pyramids, and relax on a Nile cruise. The atmosphere is quite lively during this time, drawing travelers from all over the world as winter is the best season to explore Egypt.
However, prices are also high during winter, and crowds grow. Hotels and tours book up quickly, and you'll expect long lines at major attractions. In Alexandria and the northern coast, while the weather can be chilly and rainy, it's not too harsh. For most travelers, winter's comfort makes it worth the trade-off.