If you are planning a trip to Egypt, you might be wondering what is the best time to visit this fascinating country. Egypt is a destination of rich archaeological sites, a beautiful coastline, and compelling history and culture stretching back thousands of years. However, the weather can vary from region to region, and from season to season. In this article, we will help you decide when to go to Egypt based on your preferences and interests.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is the high season in Egypt, as many tourists flock to the country to escape the cold weather in their home countries. The weather is mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 23°C (57°F to 73°F) across the country. The Mediterranean coast can be cooler and wetter, while the desert can be cold at night. Winter is the best time to visit Egypt if you want to explore the ancient ruins and monuments without suffering from the heat. You can enjoy visiting the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, the Valley of the Kings, the temples of Luxor and Aswan, and many other archaeological wonders. However, winter is also the most crowded and expensive time to visit Egypt, so you will need to book your accommodation and tours well in advance. You will also have to deal with large crowds at popular attractions, especially during Christmas and New Year.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is Egypt’s shoulder season. You save money and avoid crowds compared to winter. The country is warm and pleasant, averaging 18°C to 29°C (64°F to 84°F). The Mediterranean coast can be windy and rainy, while the desert can be hot during the day. Spring is a good time to visit Egypt if you want to enjoy some festivals and events, such as Coptic Christmas and Easter, or the Abu Simbel Sun Festival in February and October. However, spring also brings occasional dust storms, known as Khamsin, which can disrupt flights and reduce visibility.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the low season in Egypt, as the weather becomes scorching hot and dry. The average temperatures range from 23°C to 35°C (73°F to 95°F) across the country, but it can get much hotter in some places. The Mediterranean coast can be humid and crowded with local tourists, while the desert can be unbearable during the day. If you want to relax at the Red Sea beach resorts, summer is a great time to visit Egypt. You can dive, snorkel, and swim in the warm water. But avoid summer if you want to explore ancient sites. The heat and sun exposure is extreme. You can also find some bargains on accommodation and tours, as this is the off-season for tourism.