The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months from October to April, when the weather is perfect for exploring ancient wonders. This period avoids the intense heat of the summer, offering warm, sunny days that are ideal for sightseeing and relaxing by the Red Sea. Planning your Egypt holidays during these months means you'll have comfortable temperatures for all your adventures.
When is the best time to visit Egypt?
The best time to visit Egypt is between January and March. This is when you'll find pleasantly warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine and very little rain, making it ideal for visiting historical sites like Luxor or enjoying the Red Sea coast without the peak heat of summer.
Egypt in spring: 21°C to 30°C, warm and sunny
Spring is a fantastic time to visit Egypt as temperatures climb from warm to hot, but without the intensity of mid-summer. With average temperatures ranging from 21°C to 30°C and nearly 12 hours of sunshine a day, it's perfect for both sightseeing and beach time. Rainfall is almost non-existent, so you can expect clear blue skies throughout your trip.
Egypt in summer: 28°C to 37°C, hot and dry
Summer in Egypt is defined by its heat and sun. From June to August, average highs soar to 37°C, especially inland around areas like Luxor. The coastal resorts along the Red Sea, which is the country's warmest region, are slightly moderated by sea breezes but remain very hot. With zero rainfall and around 12 hours of daily sunshine, it's the season for dedicated sun-seekers who love the heat.
Egypt in autumn: 24°C to 32°C, warm with clear skies
Autumn sees the summer heat begin to subside, transitioning into a more comfortable warmth. Temperatures average between 24°C and 32°C, making September and October excellent months for a holiday. You'll still enjoy long, sunny days with almost no chance of rain, creating perfect conditions for diving in the Red Sea or exploring the ancient temples as the crowds of winter begin to arrive.
Egypt in winter: 16°C to 24°C, mild and pleasant
Winter is peak season for cultural tours in Egypt, thanks to its wonderfully mild climate. Daily temperatures hover between a pleasant 16°C and 24°C, ideal for exploring outdoor sights without overheating. While it's the coolest and wettest season, rainfall is still very low at just 5mm per month on average. With over 10 hours of sunshine a day, it's a popular choice for a winter sun getaway.
Average weather in Egypt by month
Egypt's climate is consistently hot and sunny, with July being the warmest month and January the coolest and wettest. The figures below are an average for the country, so you may find local variations - for example, the Red Sea region is typically warmer, while Hurghada is slightly cooler.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm/month) | Sunshine (avg hrs/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15-22°C | 7mm | 10.3 |
| February | 16-24°C | 2mm | 10.7 |
| March | 18-27°C | 3mm | 11.2 |
| April | 21-30°C | 2mm | 11.4 |
| May | 25-34°C | 0mm | 11.6 |
| June | 27-36°C | 0mm | 11.8 |
| July | 28-37°C | 0mm | 11.7 |
| August | 28-37°C | 0mm | 11.7 |
| September | 26-36°C | 0mm | 11.8 |
| October | 24-32°C | 1mm | 11.8 |
| November | 20-28°C | 5mm | 11.2 |
| December | 17-24°C | 6mm | 10.7 |
Best time to visit Egypt for beach holidays
For a classic beach holiday in resorts like Sharm el Sheikh or Hurghada, the best times are the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. April, May, September, and October offer hot, sunny weather that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing, but avoids the scorching peak temperatures of July and August. You'll find clear skies and warm sea temperatures ideal for snorkelling and diving.
Best time to visit Egypt for sightseeing
If you're planning to explore Egypt's famous historical sites in Luxor and the Nile Valley, the winter months from November to March are ideal. With average temperatures between 16°C and 27°C, the weather is comfortable enough for full days of walking around temples and tombs. You'll avoid the draining heat of summer and enjoy your tours in pleasant, sunny conditions.
Best time to visit Egypt for winter sun
Egypt is a premier winter sun destination. Between December and February, you can escape the cold and grey of a UK winter for a land of sunshine and mild warmth. Temperatures average a comfortable 16°C to 24°C and you can expect over 10 hours of sunshine each day. It’s warm enough for relaxing by the pool, with just a light jacket needed for the evenings.
