The best time to visit Egypt

Egypt is a year-round destination, but the experience changes a lot with the season. Most of what people come for — the pyramids, Luxor's temples, the desert — is outdoors with little shade, so temperature matters more than anything else.

October to April: the main season

Days are warm and nights are cool, which makes long days at Giza, Karnak or the Valley of the Kings comfortable. December and January are the busiest months, with the most visitors and the highest hotel prices. October, November, March and April are a sweet spot: still pleasant, with fewer crowds.

• Cairo and Giza: mild days, chilly evenings in December–February. Bring a light jacket.
• Luxor and Aswan: warm and sunny, the best time for temple days and Nile sailing.
• The Western Desert: comfortable days, but desert nights can be properly cold.

May to September: hot, quiet and cheaper

Summer is very hot, especially in Upper Egypt, where Luxor and Aswan regularly pass 40°C. Sites are quieter and prices lower. If you travel now, start at sunrise, rest through the afternoon and plan the evening for markets and the Nile.

Tip: In summer, book early-morning tours. An 8am start at Giza or Karnak is a completely different day from a noon one.

The Red Sea, any time

Dahab, Hurghada and the Sinai coast are good all year. The water is warmest from late summer into autumn; winter is sunny but breezier, and a wetsuit helps for longer dives.

Dates worth planning around

• Ramadan moves about 11 days earlier each year. Sites stay open, but hours can be shorter and evenings are lively after sunset.
• Spring can bring the khamsin, a hot, dusty wind, usually around March and April.
• Around 22 February and 22 October, the sunrise lights the inner sanctuary at Abu Simbel. Expect crowds.