For most travelers, 14 to 15 days is the perfect amount of time for an Egypt trip, with stops in Cairo, Sharm el-Sheikh, Aswan, Luxor, Esna, and Kom Ombo. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as 10 to 13 days. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country. Get inspired with our trip ideas below.
March is shoulder season in Egypt and without a doubt one of the best times of year to visit. The weather begins warming up as winter comes to an end; however, the temperatures are not yet scorching hot. This makes it a fantastic time to stroll through the ancient ruins and explore the historical sites. Plus, as a bonus, the crowds begin thinning out, giving you the space you soak up all of the wonder.
Most people visiting Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor spend about seven to nine days in Egypt, which usually includes some time in Edfu, Hurghada, Kom Ombo, or Esna, as well. If you're not interested in extending your itinerary, the same timeframe is enough for your Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as four to six days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and beyond.
The summer season in Egypt is a hot time and August is no exception. Daytime temperatures can range 96 to 105°F and the midday heat can at times feel sweltering. That said, it's also a time when very few tourists visit and prices are low, making it an enticing option for certain types of travelers. Although hot, the Pyramids of Giza and other wonders are no less awe-inspiring this time of year.
May is the beginning of the summer in Egypt and one of the hotter times of the year to visit. It's a magical time to head to the Red Sea coastal resorts where temperatures are slightly cooler and the gentle sea breezes help temper the heat. Plus, you can often scoop up end-of-season deals and there are fewer tourists crowding the attractions. Inland and farther south, the heat can be oppressive and the desert is known for sandstorms this time of year so it's best to stick to the northern region.
With its cooler temperatures and bustling energy, December is one of the best times of the year to visit Egypt. The weather is pleasant and special events abound as tourists spill in for the holidays. It's more crowded than usual; however, the extra bodies also bring an exciting, fun-filled atmosphere with crowded markets and vibrant nightlife.
The best weather in Egypt falls between October and March, and the peak tourist season occurs from December to February. While the off-season may be lighter on your wallet—and light on the crowds—the trade-off is high heat, which can be unbearable in the summer months of June through August. Read on to find the season that's best for you.
By June, summertime is in full swing and, along with it, considerable heat. That doesn't mean you can't have a fantastic Egyptian vacation this time of year but you do have to plan your destinations a bit more thoroughly. The beaches along the Red Sea are stunning and full of life and in Cairo, the temperatures are cooler as well. Southern destinations, however, can reach temperatures of up to 106°F during the days, making it an undesirable time for most tourist attractions. The upshot is there are far fewer tourists during this low season.
High season is in full effect in Egypt in February. The weather is cooler this time of the year and the air is more pleasant, a fact that draws many tourists to visit the world's oldest civilization. It's the perfect time to check out the Pyramids of Giza and other key historical sites where you'll find temperatures idyllic for strolling around the magnificent ruins and watching the ancient cities bustle with life.
Seven to nine days is the most popular trip length for Egypt travelers interested in visiting Cairo, especially when also including another location like Aswan, Luxor, Edfu, Esna, or Kom Ombo. If you're only headed to Cairo, you can enjoy a comfortably paced trip in four to five days. For the best itineraries including Cairo, keep reading below.