Best Time to Visit Cairo

Before creating your travel plan to Cairo, the first and most important thing is to make a decision about when to go. Check out our local expert's advice on the best time to visit Cairo.

Pyramid in Giza, Cairo

Cairo's Location & Weather

Cairo sits in the northeastern part of Egypt, just south of the Nile Delta. Like most inland cities in the country, Cairo experiences a desert climate. You can undoubtedly expect very hot, dry summers and pleasant winters.

In Cairo, the seasons do not align with the official calendar. Summer tends to arrive early. Typically, May often feels like the beginning of it, with rising temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The temperature keeps going up and hits the highest point in July or August and will continue through late September, making summer in Cairo long and intense.

December to February

Climbing the Pyramids of Giza in Peak Season

Winter in Cairo brings the city's best weather: cool, comfortable, and perfect for exploring outdoors. The temperature during the daytime is usually within 20°C (68°F). Which means, even if you hike the pyramid, you won't sweat a lot. But as the night falls, it will turn cooler, like about 13°C (55°F). So, remember to pack a sweater or a jacket if traveling to Cairo during this period.

In addition to the advantage of pleasant weather, from December onwards, Cairo comes alive with a festive atmosphere. Fireworks light up the sky above the Giza Pyramids, and you will find vibrant performances and celebrations across the city.

It is no wonder December to February is when Cairo truly shines. Since the weather is pleasant, activities are diverse, and everything is perfect, plenty of visitors will visit Cairo during this period, especially to enjoy their Christmas and New Year holidays in Egypt.

That said, be prepared for larger crowds, long lines at major sites, and higher prices for travel services and accommodations. If you are planning a trip during this peak period, remember to book as early as you can.

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March to April & October to November

Giza Pyramids & Sphinx - Less Crowded in Shoulder Season

I rate the spring (March-April) or autumn (October-November) as the best time for taking a trip to Cairo, even more so than winter. These are Cairo's shoulder seasons, offering pleasantly mild weather without the high-season crowds.

During these months, visitor numbers can be much lower than in winter, which means less waiting time at major sites and a more relaxed experience overall. Even better, the cost of accommodations is often lower for the same quality. For example, when comparing rates for popular hotels like the Marriott, Four Seasons, or Hilton, we consistently see prices drop by around 15% during shoulder season except for the holiday time.

Speaking of holiday time, this period also has some unique cultural events in Cairo. In April, you may catch the Cairo International Film Festival for Children or various Easter-related festivities (known locally as Sham El Nessim, an ancient spring holiday). In October or November, the city hosts events like the Cairo Jazz Festival and the Downtown Contemporary Arts Festival (D-CAF), adding more fun to your visit.

The only downside is the chance of sandstorms in March, which can affect air quality. If you're visiting at that time, just pack a mask or scarf for protection.

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May to September

Statue Exhibits in the Grand Egyptian Museum

The period from May to September marks the long summer and the low season in Cairo, mainly due to the intense heat. Though the average temperatures we listed above seem not that unbearable. Its noon temperature actually sometimes soars above 35°C (95°F), even nearly 40°C (102°F), especially in July and August, making it challenging for outdoor sightseeing during midday hours.

However, if you can handle the heat and plan your visits early in the morning or in the evening, you will enjoy several advantages. This is when tourist crowds are at their thinnest, and prices for hotels, tours, and flights are often at their lowest of the year. Many top hotels offer great deals.

For an even more comfortable experience, choose hotels with good air conditioning and a swimming pool. Choose indoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, such as exploring the new Grand Egyptian Museum, Cairo Citadel, or some shopping malls.

One more tip: the Eid al-Adha and Islamic New Year holidays sometimes fall during this period, depending on the Islamic calendar. These festivals can bring a more vibrant local atmosphere, but also short bursts of domestic travel and busy spots.

Final Thoughts: When Is the Best Time to Visit Cairo

All in all, the best months of the year to visit Cairo should be March, April, October, and November. These months fit almost all needs, keeping a good balance between pleasant weather, reasonable travel costs, and enjoyable experiences.

If budget is not a concern and you are looking for a festive atmosphere or the clearest skies for photography, the winter months (December to February) are also excellent. Just be prepared for larger crowds.

Things come opposite for those who want to save budget. Just choose May to September to come. Right planning can also make your trip doable, even if the weather is hot.

Now, contact Odynovo for a hassle-free tour of Cairo and more destinations in Egypt! Our travel expert will create a personalized itinerary for you, taking your travel dates, interests, budget, and all into consideration.