Best time to Visit EgyptWhen to Visit Egypt: Ideal Months for Comfortable Exploration

Egypt at a Glance: Best Time to Visit

Recommended time to visit:

September - April. In particular September - October and March - April offer warm but not scorching temperatures.

Less popular time to visit:

May - August. Temperatures are hot, frequently reaching the mid-30s degrees Centigrade. On the other hand, the crowds are much thinner.

Exciting times to visit:

The Abu Simbel Sun Festival takes place on the 21 February and 21 October each year, you won't want to miss it.

Best time for beaches:

The beach resorts of Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh can be visited all year round. The sea breeze keeps temperatures lower than inland. June to August are still very hot though.

Anything to be aware of?

Egypt is a largely Muslim country, and during Ramadan (dates vary depending on the year), some shops, restaurants and the like may be closed during the day. But the country comes alive at night as people break their fasts.

Festivals and Events

The vast majority of Egypt's population is Muslim and a number of Islamic celebrations are held throughout the year, namely Ramadan. The devout Coptic Christian minority also observe holidays such as Easter. Below is a guide to the most important festivals and events held throughout the year.

Abu Simbel Festival

The spectacular temples of Abu Simbel were built so that on two days of the year the sun would align and illuminate the inner sanctum of the temple. These dates mark the date of King Ramses II's ascension to the throne - 21st February - and his birthday - 21st October. It's an incredible phenomenon to witness and a perfect time to visit Abu Simbel. Experience it for yourself on our Abu Simbel Sun Festival tour.

Egypt during Ramadan

Most Egyptians usually become more holy during this month, visiting their mosque more regularly and reading as much of the Koran as possible. At night you will find a very festive atmosphere especially in major Egyptian cities. People usually go out after breaking their fast to coffee shops, sporting clubs or big hotels. Often you will see oriental tents set up outside these places where shisha, food and drinks (no alcohol) are served all night with live music, Sufi dancing and traditional dancing. These parties go on all night till just before sunrise when people have their second big meal called ‘El Sohour’ which will help them fast for the next day. At this time of year services will be slower, opening hours reduced and traffic chaotic but it is likely that you will witness and often experience the true hospitality, generosity and kindness that the holy month of Ramadan brings to the nation.

Tourist Site Closures

At present there are no planned closures of tourist sites in Egypt but recently closing times for major attractions in Cairo, Aswan and Luxor have changed to 4pm with the exception of Luxor Temple which is open until 8pm during the week.