When is the best time to visit Egypt

For thousands of years, travelers have traveled to Egypt to gaze in awe at the ancient pyramids and temples from the time of the Pharaohs, one of the greatest civilizations the world has ever known. More recently, visitors also come to soak up the culture or do business in Cairo; and to discover the idyllic beaches and world-famous reefs of the Red Sea. If a trip to Egypt is on your bucket list, one of the first decisions you'll have to make is when to go.

If weather is your main concern, the best time to visit Egypt is during the Northern Hemisphere's fall, winter, or early spring (October to April), when temperatures are lower. To avoid crowds at ancient sites such as the pyramids of Giza, Luxor and Abu Simbel, try to avoid the high season (December and January). This time of year, accommodation and excursions throughout the country tend to be more expensive. Budget travelers can get good discounts in summer and low season.

Weather in Egypt

For many people, the weather is a crucial factor when deciding when to visit Egypt. The weather is usually hot and sunny all year round, and there is very little rainfall south of Cairo. Even in the wettest places (Alexandria and Rafah), it rains only an average of 46 days a year.1 Winters are typically mild, and daytime temperatures in Cairo hover around 68 degrees F. At night, temperatures in the capital can drop to 50 degrees F or lower. In summer, temperatures reach an average of 38 degrees Celsius, aggravated by the intense humidity.2

It's important to remember that many of Egypt's ancient landmarks are located in desert regions that remain hot despite the proximity of the Nile River. Climbing into an airless tomb on a 100-degree day can be exhausting. Several of the main attractions are located in the south of Egypt, where it is even hotter than in Cairo. If you plan to visit Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel and/or Lake Nasser between May and October, be sure to avoid the midday heat by planning your visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Between March and May, the Khamsin brings with it thick dust and sand storms.

The best time to sail the Nile

With this in mind, the best time to book a Nile cruise is between October and April. Temperatures are more pleasant this time of year, allowing you to make the most of day trips to iconic sites such as the Valley of the Kings and the temples of Luxor. For the same reasons, traveling during the summer months, from June to August, is not recommended. Aswan's average temperatures exceed 40 degrees F this time of year, and there isn't much shade to offer respite from the midday sun.

The best time to enjoy the Red Sea

June to September is an excellent time to visit the Red Sea resorts. Despite it being the peak of summer, temperatures on the coast are much cooler than inland. Average summer temperatures at the most popular Hurghada beach resorts hover around 32 degrees Celsius, while the sea temperature is a pleasant 32 degrees Celsius, perfect for diving and scuba diving. In July and August it is essential to book in advance, as the resorts can be full of vacationing Europeans and Americans, and wealthy Egyptians looking to escape the heat of Cairo.

The best time to visit the Western Desert of Egypt

Desert summers should be avoided, as temperatures in destinations like SiwaOasis routinely exceed 40 degrees F.3 In the middle of winter, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, making the best time to visit It is halfway between spring and autumn. February to April and September to November are the optimal times for temperature, although spring visitors should be aware of possible sandstorms resulting from the annual Khamsin .

Travel to Egypt during Ramadan

Ramadan is the Muslim holy month of fasting, and the dates change each year according to the dates of the Islamic calendar. Tourists should not fast when visiting Egypt during Ramadan. However, shops and banks often close for much of the day, while many cafes and restaurants do not open at all during daylight hours. In the evening the atmosphere is usually festive as eating and drinking resumes. Towards the end of Ramadan, there are several festivities that are fun to experience and observe.

Spring in Egypt

Spring is a good time to visit Egypt, as temperatures are usually quite moderate. Khamsin windy season (March to May), as visibility is often affected by sand and dust storms. This is especially worrying for amateur photographers. Prices for accommodation and excursions are usually cheaper than in the peak winter season.

Events to check out:

• The Abu El Haggag Moulid, a five-day carnival in Luxor, is usually held in spring, a month before Ramadan. The festival celebrates a 13th century Sufi leader, Yusuf Abu Al Haggag.
• Egyptians celebrate Sham El Nessim to welcome spring in the country. It usually takes place in April, after Coptic Easter.

Summer in Egypt

Temperatures are often sweltering in summer, especially in Upper Egypt, near Luxor. However, traveling at this time has its advantages: you can see Egypt without the influx of other tourists, allowing you to visit some of the country's most revered monuments in peace. Ramadan usually falls during the summer months; Please note that some attractions may close earlier than usual.

Events to check out:

• Muslims end the long month of Ramadan with Eid al Fitr, a religious holiday.

Autumn in Egypt

Like spring, fall brings cooler temperatures and affordable prices. The heat can sometimes last until October, but crowds are still sparse, making it an ideal time to visit the most popular monuments. If you are planning a visit to the beach, this is an ideal season to do so, as the Red Sea is still warm and not crowded.

Winter in Egypt

Although winter can mean good weather, it is also peak tourist season. Attractions will be more crowded and hotel prices may skyrocket. It rains from time to time and some cities, such as Alexandria, will be quite wet.

Events to check out:

• On January 7, the Copts of Egypt celebrate Coptic Christmas. At midnight, the faithful gather en masse and enjoy the traditional fatta meal .
• The Abu Simbel festival is celebrated on February 22 each year to commemorate the temple of the same name.
• The Egypt Art Fair, held in summer, is one of the largest contemporary art exhibitions in the country

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▷ Conclusion: Go out, travel and live your life to the fullest.

This year, treat yourself to a break from the ordinary and seek an adventure abroad. You'll come back refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to bore all your friends with travel stories.

Any time of year is a good time to travel. Discover the best places to travel by month:

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

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