Egypt offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, and the best time to visit largely depends on the type of experience you want. Here’s a month-by-month guide to help you decide when to visit based on weather, festivals, and seasonal activities.

January

• Weather: Cool, with daytime temperatures averaging 18-22°C (64-72°F) and cooler evenings. This is one of the best months to visit Cairo and other cities in the Nile Valley.
• Festivals: New Year celebrations, with lively events in major cities.
• Activities: Great time for sightseeing, as temperatures are pleasant for exploring temples and pyramids without the summer heat.

February

• Weather: Temperatures are still cool, averaging 19°C (66°F) during the day.
• Festivals: Cairo International Film Festival (if you’re in Cairo).
• Activities: Ideal for visiting the pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, and other historical sites without the crowds of the high season.

March

• Weather: Mild, with daytime highs around 23°C (73°F).
• Festivals: The spring season begins with the Sham El-Nessim festival, a celebration of the Egyptian spring.
• Activities: Perfect for outdoor activities like exploring the desert, visiting Luxor and Aswan, and cruising along the Nile.

April

• Weather: Pleasant temperatures ranging from 24-28°C (75-82°F).
• Festivals: Sham El-Nessim (a public holiday in Egypt) continues with celebrations in Cairo and beyond.
• Activities: Excellent for cultural tours and sightseeing. The desert is also ideal for a jeep safari.

May

• Weather: Warm, with daytime temperatures reaching around 30°C (86°F).
• Festivals: Cairo Opera House hosts a variety of performances.
• Activities: Great for exploring the Nile, but temperatures are beginning to rise, so consider visiting the Red Sea resorts like Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada.

June

• Weather: Hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F) in many cities. The heat is more intense in southern Egypt.
• Festivals: Cairo Opera House Summer Festival.
• Activities: If you don’t mind the heat, explore coastal destinations like the Red Sea and relax in resorts. For those looking to explore Cairo, early morning and late evening visits to attractions are best.

July

• Weather: Hot, with temperatures often climbing over 40°C (104°F) in many parts of the country, especially inland.
• Festivals: Music and cultural events in Cairo, Alexandria, and Red Sea resorts.
• Activities: Ideal for beach holidays along the Red Sea. The hot weather makes it less suitable for desert tours, but it’s perfect for relaxing at resorts.

August

• Weather: Extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F) in most regions.
• Festivals: Ramadan (dates vary each year) and other summer cultural events.
• Activities: A good time to enjoy the beach, as well as water sports like snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea.

September

• Weather: Temperatures begin to drop slightly, with averages around 35°C (95°F).
• Festivals: Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre.
• Activities: Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in the Sinai Peninsula or exploring the Nile Valley. September marks the beginning of cooler weather in the desert.

October

• Weather: Pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 28-30°C (82-86°F).
• Festivals: Egyptian Opera Season kicks off. The Cairo International Film Festival is a highlight.
• Activities: Perfect for exploring historical sites in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Ideal for a Nile cruise.

November

• Weather: Mild, with daytime temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F).
• Festivals: Abu Simbel Sun Festival, where the sun illuminates the temple’s inner sanctum.
• Activities: Excellent for desert safaris, historical tours, and diving in the Red Sea.

December

• Weather: Cool, with daytime temperatures around 20-22°C (68-72°F).
• Festivals: Christmas and New Year celebrations, particularly in tourist resorts.
• Activities: Ideal for sightseeing and cultural experiences. Perfect for escaping the winter chill, especially if you’re visiting the Red Sea resorts.

Key Considerations:

• Winter (November to February) is the best time for sightseeing and cultural activities.
• Spring (March to May) and Fall (October to November) offer mild weather and fewer tourists.
• Summer (June to August) can be very hot, especially in the south, but the Red Sea resorts provide a great escape with beach activities.

For the best combination of weather, events, and activities, October through April are generally considered the best months to visit Egypt.