As the weather is getting chillier and fall is already here, I thought about putting together a list of the best places to visit in Egypt in winter. So, if you’re planning a trip to Egypt over Christmas break or sometime during the next months, you might want to save this blog post.
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When Is Winter in Egypt?
Wondering when is the best time to visit Egypt? Fortunately, Egypt is a year-round destination. It’s warm throughout the year and there’s always a place to visit depending on when you plan to travel. The best time to visit, in my opinion, is during the fall, followed by spring, for milder weather conditions. However, the seasons here tend to blend seamlessly into one another, with subtle transitions, making fall and spring months pass by quickly.
So, even though winter in Egypt is short, it’s a great time to visit for various reasons:
- Winter in Egypt lasts longer than spring and fall months, so you have more travel dates’ options.
- It coincides with long winter breaks during Christmas and New Year.
- Winter in Egypt isn’t harsh and often warm enough to enjoy in some destinations.
- There are plenty of beautiful destinations that are best explored during fall or winter as they’d be too hot to visit in the summer.
Winter in Egypt typically starts in November or December and lasts through February or early March. When exactly it begins and ends really depends on the destination you’re visiting. For instance, winter usually arrives earlier in Alexandria, or the North in general, than Cairo. Winter also tends to be rainy up there, but drier and cooler in destinations with desert-like temperatures.
Temperature in Egypt in Winter
Generally speaking, as I just mentioned, rainfall is minimal in Egypt, mostly limited to northern, coastal cities like Alexandria. The rest of the country is known for dry and sunny winters.
The weather in Egypt in winter is mild and pleasant – daytime temperatures average between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to 10°C (50°F) or lower. Desert regions experience colder nights.
On the other hand, during spring and fall months, temperatures are moderate, typically between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making these seasons comfortable for travel.
The Best Places to Visit in Egypt in Winter
Cairo
A trip to Egypt wouldn’t be possible without adding its capital city, Cairo, to your itinerary. From the iconic ancient world wonder, the Great Pyramids of Giza, to Old Cairo, the majestic Saladin Citadel, there’s no shortage of things to do in the vibrant capital.
Lots of travelers often make the mistake of passing through for a day or two, but there’s so much more to see and do in Cairo than the touristic clichés. And the best time to enjoy what the city has to offer is during the winter so you can escape the dry summer heat.
Check my Cairo travel guide here.
Luxor
If it’s your first time in Egypt, Luxor is a must-visit! The historic city is often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum as it features ⅓ of the world’s monuments. Luxor is home to many fascinating archaeological sites such as the Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings and Queens, and much more.
It’s also the perfect place to check riding a hot air balloon off your bucket list!
Aswan
A trip to Aswan goes hand in hand with a trip to Luxor as they’re very close in proximity. They’re both located in Upper Egypt, the most-southern part of the country, which explains why winter is the best time to visit.
Even though Aswan features stunning monuments such as the Philae Temple, it offers more of a peaceful retreat along the Nile. That’s why I usually recommend visiting Luxor first, especially if you’re taking a Nile cruise, and ending your trip in Aswan to relax. It’s also a great opportunity to experience the Nubian culture when there.
Fayoum
Located just south of Cairo, Fayoum makes the perfect weekend getaway from the capital for nature and adventure lovers. From exploring stunning desert landscapes of Wadi El Hitan to sipping on traditional tea on Lake Qarun or pottery making in Tunis Village, the oasis has so much to offer.
Check my Fayoum travel guide here.
Siwa
Siwa may be a long drive away from Cairo, but this paradise on earth is absolutely worth the trip. Located in the heart of the western desert, winter is definitely the best time to visit. Known for its picturesque palm groves, crystal blue salt lakes, and natural hot springs, Siwa offers a truly exceptional experience. Not to mention its interesting history that’s worth learning about at sites like the Shali Fortress and the Temple of the Oracle.
Check my Siwa travel guide here.
Black & White Deserts
If you’re a nature lover or an adventurer at heart, the Black & White Deserts offer the ultimate camping experience in outworldly locations. The Black Desert’s volcanic terrains and the White Desert’s limestone rock formations will blow your minds for sure.
Check my Black & White Deserts travel guide here.
Saint Catherine
Another perfect destination for adrenaline junkies and outdoorsy travelers is hands down Saint Catherine. Located in the Sinai Peninsula, South Sinai to be more precise, Saint Catherine is one of the country’s most serene, spiritual, and adventurous destinations at the same time. It’s Egypt’s ultimate hiking destination all thanks to its stunning mountains, valleys, and canyons. Especially because it’s home to Egypt’s 3 highest summits; Mount Catherine, Mount Sinai, and Mount Abbas.
Not just that, but Saint Catherine also offers a spiritua journey. It’s where Moses is believed to have received the 10 commandments and it’s home to the historic Saint Catherine’s Monastery, one of the world’s oldest.
Check my Saint Catherine travel guide here.
Dahab
If you’re looking for a coastal destination, I definitely recommend this heavenly town, also in Sinai. Most people might think I’d recommend Sharm El Sheikh, but this laid-back seaside town beats the all-inclusive resorts of Sharm El Sheikh all the way.
Dahab offers a more authentic experience and its magical vibes charms all its first-time visitors for all the right reasons. It’s the perfect place for diving, snorkeling, kite surfing, rock climbing, and all sorts of adventures. Its chilled-out atmosphere also makes it the perfect hub for digital nomads in Egypt. I consider Dahab my home away from home and it’s where I choose for my annual getaway – so I’m definitely biased.
Check my Dahab travel guide here.
El Gouna
Another coastal destination that’s dear to my heart is El Gouna, a vibrant, lavish private town by the Red Sea. Its known for its crystal clear lagoons, vibrant marina, and lively nightlife. So, if you’re seeking a luxurious beach getaway that’s much hipper than Hurghada, El Gouna should be on your radar.
Check my El Gouna travel guide here.
DON’T FORGET TO DOWNLOAD AN ESIM!
What to Pack for Egypt in Winter
Packing for Egypt in Winter requires a balance of both warm and light layers, especially if you’re traveling to different destinations. Temperatures vary depending on the destination and time of day, so it’s best to be prepared. Here’s everything you might need:
Clothes
- Light layers: Daytime temperatures can be warm, so bring lightweight clothing with breathable materials such as t-shirts, linen shirts, and comfortable pants.
- Warm layers: For cooler evenings, you can pack a sweater, hoodie, or fleece jacket.
- Jacket or coat: In Cairo and desert destinations, nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, so you will also need a warm coat or jacket.
- Comfortable walking shoes: For exploring historical sites or desert treks, pack comfortable sneakers or running shoes. And if you’re planning to hike, you must pack appropriate hiking boots.
- Scarf or shawl: This will come in handy as it provides added warmth, modesty when visiting religious sites, as well as protection against desert winds.
- Jeans or pants: Comfy, casual pants or jeans for exploring cities or more conservative areas.
- Beach wear: If you’re traveling to a coastal destination, it can be warm enough for a swim, depending on when you visit. It’s also appropriate to wear shorts and tank tops in destinations like Dahab or El Gouna.
Accessories
- Sunglasses: Even if you’re traveling to Egypt in winter, the sun can be strong. So, bring a good pair of UV-protective sunglasses.
- Hat/beanie: A hat will come in handy for sun protection during the day and a beanie for warmth in the evening, especially if you’re going to the desert.
- Gloves: If you’re spending time in the desert, you’ll definitely need a pair of gloves for cold mornings and evenings.
Essential Toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Moisturizer
Other Travel Essentials
Aside from the previously mentioned packing essentials for Egypt in winter, you will obviously need to bring along other things that aren’t related to the destination. Always prepare a packing list so you won’t forget things like your charger, meds, or other essential toiletries.
Planning a trip to Egypt in winter, or any other season, and you need local expert help at designing an off-the-beaten-path itinerary? Book my trip planning service here.
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance!
Travel (solo or not) isn’t always rainbows and butterflies – things might go down south sometimes. You might fall ill or lose your luggage, and that’s when you’ll thank me for having your back covered with travel insurance.
SafetyWing offers different travel insurance packages, tailored to your needs, but their Nomad Insurance is my favorite option.
This travel medical insurance is perfect for frequent travelers. It covers lost checked luggage, travel delay, doctors, hospitals, and more. It even covers the COVID-19 emergency quarantine period if deemed necessary by a physician.
GET INSURED NOW – Nomad Insurance
Booking a trip soon? Here are some useful travel resources:
- Book your flight with Skyscanner, Kiwi, CheapOair, or WayAway.
- Book your hostel with Hostelworld.
- Book your hotel with Booking.com or Agoda.
- Get your travel insurance with SafetyWing.
- Hire a car with Skyscanner, Discover Cars, Rentalcars, or AutoEurope.
- Book your tours with Viator or Klook.
- Download an eSIM from Airalo or Jetpac.
- Check out my trip planning tools for more travel resources.
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Nadine is an Egyptian curly-head who decided to quit the norm because it just doesn’t suit her. She ditched her 9-5 as a magazine editor to pursue her dream of becoming a full-time digital nomad and to inspire aspiring travelers to embark on their own solo adventures.
