Winter, from November to February, is the classic time to visit Egypt: warm sunny days in the south, cool evenings and the busiest season of the year.
Egypt in winter at a glance
| Month (high / low) | Cairo | Luxor | Hurghada (Red Sea) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19° / 9° | 23° / 7° | 22° / 14° (sea 21°) |
| February | 21° / 10° | 26° / 8° | 23° / 15° (sea 20°) |
| November | 25° / 14° | 29° / 12° | 27° / 19° (sea 25°) |
| December | 20° / 10° | 25° / 8° | 23° / 15° (sea 23°) |
Approximate long-term averages in °C. Aswan is a degree or two warmer than Luxor.
Days are mild in Cairo and warm in Upper Egypt, so long days among the temples are comfortable, but nights are cold, especially in the desert. The Red Sea is cool, between about 20°C and 25°C: good for beach days, and a wetsuit helps for snorkelling and diving.
Crowds and prices
High to peak. Christmas and New Year are the busiest and most expensive weeks of the year, and mid-February brings school half-term breaks. Nile cruises and hotels sell out, so book as early as you can.
Winter month by month
Trips that suit winter
- Nile cruises: the river at its most comfortable.
- Egypt travel packages: the classic Cairo, Luxor and Aswan trip.
- Safari & desert tours: warm days and cold nights in the desert.
- Christmas & New Year tours: trips built around the holidays.
What to pack
Layers: a warm jacket for evenings and dawn starts, light clothes for the day, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses and a scarf.
Winter questions
Is winter the best time to visit Egypt?
For sightseeing, yes: the days are comfortable for temples and the Nile. The trade-offs are the crowds and the higher prices.
How cold does Egypt get in winter?
Days are about 19–26°C in Cairo and Luxor. Nights fall to about 7–10°C in the cities and can approach freezing in the desert.
Can I swim in the Red Sea in winter?
The sea is about 20–25°C. It is cool but many visitors swim or snorkel, and a wetsuit makes it comfortable.
Planning a winter trip? Tell us your dates and what you want to see and we will plan it around the season. Plan my trip