The tourism industry in Egypt is influenced by seasonal variations. During the months of July and August, when the weather is exceedingly hot, only the most resilient individuals are inclined to visit temples in Egypt. However, the country experiences a pleasant winter climate, which attracts numerous tourists who engage in activities such as relaxing on the beaches, marveling at the pyramids of Giza, and embarking on Nile cruises.
An optimal compromise can be achieved by opting to travel during the transitional periods of fall and spring, commonly referred to as the shoulder seasons. During these periods, the influx of other visitors at prominent tourist destinations is notably less pronounced, while the daytime temperatures remain at a tolerable range.
Best time for exploring without the sweat
During the winter season in Northern Europe, a considerable number of travelers, including both individual tourists and organized tour groups, seek respite from the gloomy weather conditions in their home countries by visiting the beaches of Sharm el-Sheikh and the Red Sea coast.
Favorable weather conditions are expected across the majority of the country, with the exception of Cairo and Alexandria where precipitation should be anticipated. If one is interested in exploring the abundance of Pharaonic treasures in Luxor, the winter season offers favorable weather conditions characterized by clear blue skies and good daytime temperatures. These conditions enhance the experience of spending lengthy days wandering around ancient ruins, transforming it into an enjoyable endeavor rather than a challenging endurance test.
Additionally, the winter season is widely regarded as the most favored period to embark on outdoor expeditions in the Sinai or the Western Desert, encompassing a diverse range of activities such as hiking and camel trekking. Moreover, it presents an ideal opportunity to luxuriate in the warm winter climate while engaging in activities such as learning to dive along the South Sinai region and the Red Sea coast. It is important for divers to take into consideration that sea conditions may become turbulent during boat dives in the month of December, while shore dives often remain unaffected.
In Cairo, the relatively lower temperatures during the month of November present a favorable opportunity for engaging in extended walks to explore the various madrassas and mosques that constitute the essence of the city’s cultural and architectural heritage. It is important to note that the temperature may decrease to a greater extent than anticipated, particularly during the evening hours. Consequently, it is advisable to include warm clothing in your packing list. Anticipate elevated rates for accommodations throughout the winter peak season, particularly in proximity to the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Best time to dive in the Red Sea
Traveling during the shoulder season frequently offers a combination of advantages. Major monuments are typically less crowded during this time, and it is often possible to get discounted accommodations.
May and September are characterized by high daytime temperatures, making them unsuitable for shoulder season tourists who are sensitive to heat, as well as families with young children. Therefore, it is advisable for such individuals to consider visiting during the months of March, April, or October instead.
The climatic conditions during the late-September to October period are generally tolerable, allowing individuals to engage in outdoor activities for extended durations. The current period is widely regarded as the optimal travel season for Egypt. Additionally, the current period presents a favorable opportunity for engaging in the activity of diving. The lighting conditions along the Nile River are characterized by a soft and transparent quality, making it an ideal setting for photography in the cities of Luxor and Aswan. Additionally, around this time, the Western Desert oases experience a peak in the date harvest.
The onset of the khamsin wind, laden with sand particles, occurs in March. Consequently, the ensuing sandstorms have the potential to impede travel, occasionally leading to the suspension of ground flights. Moreover, these sandstorms can hinder the navigation of feluccas in Aswan and render sightseeing impracticable due to reduced visibility. It is advisable to allocate more time in your itinerary to account for potential disruptions or unforeseen circumstances.
During the month of April, the khamsin phenomenon may still pose a potential challenge; but, in its absence, this month is an optimal period for undertaking journeys within Egypt. The increased temperature during the evenings presents an opportune time for engaging in overnight felucca excursions departing from Aswan and partaking in camping activities within the White Desert.
Typically, the month of May presents favorable conditions for availing package deals to renowned destinations such as Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, El Gouna, and Marsa Alam.
Can I travel during Ramadan in Egypt?
The weather transitions to scorching conditions as the average high temperature reaches 108°F (42°C). The temples and tombs in Luxor commence their operations around 6 am, allowing visitors the opportunity to avoid the intense heat by adopting an early morning schedule.
One might anticipate being met with a paradoxical expression of hospitality, characterized by the phrase “Welcome to Alaska!” upon arrival in Aswan. It is advisable to avoid traversing the Western Desert unless one possesses exceptional resilience.
During the summer season, dedicated divers often choose to visit Sharm el-Sheikh and the Red Sea coast for their diving activities. In exchange for the benefits of tranquil and warm sea conditions, as well as exceptional underwater visibility, individuals are ready to endure the intense heat experienced on land. Egypt offers year-round diving opportunities.
Contrary to the conventional notion of low season, it is noteworthy that summer serves as the pinnacle of domestic holiday activity along the Mediterranean coast, with a significant portion of Cairo’s population relocating to the beach. The current weather conditions in Alexandria are characterized by high temperatures and the presence of a gentle breeze.
The annual variation of the dates for Ramadan, a month during which Muslims observe fasting from dawn to sunset, is attributed to the utilization of the Islamic calendar, which follows the lunar year.
When embarking on a journey during the holy month of Ramadan, it is important to note that tourist attractions, as well as most commercial establishments, observe reduced operating hours. Additionally, several non-tourist-oriented eateries and coffee shops may only commence their operations after sundown.
In the context of Egypt, individuals who do not adhere to the Muslim faith are not obligated to partake in the fasting period. However, it is considered appropriate for visitors to demonstrate courtesy towards those who are fasting by exercising discretion. This entails refraining from overtly consuming beverages or consuming food in public spaces.