When is the best time to visit Egypt
In Egypt, the holiday season lasts almost all year round. Yes, people from all over the world fly here at any time to see the pyramids, swim in the magnificent Red Sea, or simply relax properly in hotels. Still, almost every season has its drawbacks. We tell you how to choose the right season considering your needs.
Winter: a break from snow and the tourist season
Winter is probably the least popular time of year for a holiday in Egypt. People come here who are tired of Russian frosts and want to return to summer, if only for a short while. But, unfortunately, from December to February, Egypt experiences heavy rains and strong winds that start blowing after lunch.
It is still possible to relax on the beach in Egypt in winter. Here are the most popular locations for a beach holiday:
– Sharm El Sheikh. A magnificent resort with everything you need. Plus, an excellent view of Tiran Island in Sharks Bay.
– Hurghada. The oldest Egyptian resort near Cairo. It has sandy beaches and a shallow bottom — all perfect for a holiday with children.
– El Gouna. A network of islands near Hurghada, connected by canals and bridges. Tourists are brought here by boats.
In winter, the weather in Egypt is still pleasant, and you can relax properly: air temperature is +30 °C, and water is +21 °C.
Winter life hack: if you want to swim comfortably in the sea, go to the beach before lunch — then you won't encounter strong winds. Also, if you want to see the pyramids and sphinxes in the desert, plan your tour before 5 PM: after this time, the sun sets and it gets cool.
Spring: season of the most delicious fruits and budget holidays
Spring is one of the most pleasant times of the year for a trip to Egypt. It's not yet too hot, there aren't too many tourists — consequently, no hustle and bustle or inflated prices.
A holiday in Egypt in spring can vary depending on the month:
– March. Strong winds continue to blow at this time, so it's important to choose a hotel in a sheltered bay. The average water temperature is about +22 °C, so swimming will already be pleasant. March is also great for excursions — visit the Giza pyramids or see the legendary sphinx in Cairo.
– April. The best of the spring months for a holiday. At this time, there is no infernal heat yet, and the cold winter winds are no longer blowing. The water warms up to +24 °C, which is a very comfortable temperature for swimming.
– May. It is from this month that real summer begins in Egypt. It gets hot: daytime air temperatures can rise to +32 °C. This month is suitable for those who tolerate the scorching sun well.
During the period from April to May, it is best to relax in the resorts of Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh. Also, in spring, the season for melons, strawberries, watermelons, and mangoes begins in Egypt. So, if your soul craves juicy fruits, you will like it here.
Summer: for those who like it hot
Summer is the time that most tourists consider the best for a trip to Egypt. Apparently, these people tolerate heat very well. So, calling it the best time is a stretch.
Temperatures in Egypt in summer rise up to +42 °C, and the water warms up to +32 °C. Therefore, it's better not to go on desert excursions, as it can be unbearable there. But swimming in the sea, snorkeling, and diving are perfect.
The most pleasant place during this season is Hurghada, specifically Ras Mohammed cape, the most picturesque in the entire Red Sea. Here you can see mangrove thickets, geological faults, and salt lakes.
Here are some life hacks to help you fully enjoy your summer holiday in Egypt:
- stock up on sunscreen with maximum SPF. Plus, bring burn relief products (they won't be superfluous);
- from 12:00 to 16:00, it's better to avoid direct sun or spend time in the hotel with air conditioning;
- take cotton shirts and long-sleeved tunics;
- drink plenty of water;
- if you still want to go on excursions — choose sea tours, on a yacht. Traveling to the pyramids in summer is a real challenge.
And in our blog, we also tell you what to take with you to the sea. Be sure to read it — there's a complete list of what will definitely come in handy on your trip.
Autumn: perfect for excursions, diving, and the Sun Festival
But savvy tourists know that autumn is the best time in Egypt — this is when the velvet season begins here. The main peak of beach holidays ends, tourists leave — which means prices will be lower.
From September to November, air temperatures reach +34 °C, and sea temperatures reach +28 °C. This means you can experience Egypt from different sides: swim in the sea, dive to the bottom with scuba gear, bask on the beach, and even go on a desert excursion. In other seasons, you have to exclude at least one of these activities, but in autumn, everything is available to you.
Well, since autumn is a wonderful time for excursions, let's tell you about the most important ones:
– the pyramids in Giza. They probably don't need an introduction. This is one of the most ancient wonders of the world, which has been well preserved to this day. And next to the pyramids lies the most famous sphinx. In general, this is the main attraction that you definitely need to visit.
– Luxor. An ancient city with many monuments: granite obelisks, the Karnak and Luxor temples, the Valley of the Kings. You need to visit Luxor to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Ancient Egypt.
– Pharaoh's Island. Here is Saladin's Citadel, built in the 12th century. It was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. By the way, this island is perfect for divers due to the large number of coral reefs.
By the way, on October 22, one of the brightest events of the year takes place in Egypt — the Sun Festival in Abu Simbel. A light show is held here in honor of the birthday of Ramses II. If you want to experience unforgettable emotions, be sure to visit it.
What's the bottom line
– If you can't stand the heat — go on holiday in autumn or spring.
– If you love the scorching sun — fly in summer.
– If you want to get culturally enlightened and protect your head from the sun's rays at the same time — go in winter.
Egypt is a great place for a holiday at any time of the year. You just need to choose the season according to your needs. We are sure you will prepare and make the right choice. To make it easier for you to plan your trip, read the entry rules for Egypt.
And in our blog, you can also find out where else to go for a beach holiday abroad. We wish you a fantastic trip!
