Egypt in February 2026: Abu Simbel Sun Festival Plan & Tips

After the festive atmosphere of the New Year and the lively travel rhythm in January, slow travel begins gradually in Egypt in February. It's a great month for both adventure and rest, you can explore popular attractions and experience local life deeply. The following information will help you plan a peaceful journey to Egypt.

Why Travel to Egypt in February

In February, Egypt provides pleasant weather for exploring classic attractions and experiencing local life.

There are fewer crowds than in January (one of the peak seasons in Egypt), so you can enjoy famous places quietly and deeply. You'll be immersed in slow travel, such as peaceful Nile Cruise rides, local market visits, or yoga experiences.

Moreover, you can enjoy the special Abu Simbel Sun Festival on February 22, a rare and beautiful event to feel the mystery and sacredness of Egypt.

Celebrating the Abu Simbel Sun Festival

Egypt's Weather in February

With pleasant weather and few crowds, Egypt in February is suitable for visiting iconic landmarks and adding some special experiences, such as exploring local markets, or slowing your pace to enjoy yoga and meditation.

In the north, cities like Cairo and Alexandria enjoy mild days around 9-21°C, with cool evenings.

Along the Nile River, places like Luxor and Aswan are warm with sunny skies and temperatures between 10-24°C, ideal for sightseeing and boat rides. Further south, Abu Simbel's temperatures reach around 10-24°C, offering good conditions to explore temples and enjoy the Abu Simbel Sun Festival.

Red Sea resorts such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer perfect beach weather, with clear skies and warm waters around 12-23°C.

In the inland deserts, the days are sunny and dry with temperatures around 20℃, and nights can cool down to 8 ℃.

Egypt's Weather Map in February

Crowds & Costs

February is still a busy time to visit Egypt, but not as crowded as the peak seasons like January. It's a great time to enjoy the popular and peaceful sides of Egypt.

In February, Egypt's peak season is slowly ending with fewer tourists, but it's still advisable to book your tours and hotels early. You can enjoy popular places like the pyramids and a Nile cruise without long lines, and try deep experiences, like relaxing on the beach, joining a yoga session, or exploring local markets.

Best Places to Visit in Egypt in February

Cairo

February's cool air and gentle sun reveal the rich textures of the ancient stones, making the pyramids and the Sphinx in Cairo sacred. With relatively few crowds and short lines, you'll have quiet moments to stand in awe, take photos in soft golden light, and reflect on the long history.

Abu Simbel

Interior of the Temple at Abu Simbel

Visiting temples of Abu Simbel in February is a highlight of Egypt trip. The two great rock temples, carved into the mountainside, show the power and beauty of ancient Egyptian art. Inside, you'll find giant statues of Ramses II and detailed wall carvings that tell amazing stories. If you stay here on February 22, you'll join in the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, a special sunrise event when sunlight lights up the inner temple statues.

Recommended Tour Itinerary

Essential Egypt with Abu Simbel 9 DAYS Explore This Tour

Red Sea Resort

You can start a cozy and peaceful beach holiday in February in Red Sea resorts like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh. Rich water sports are waiting for you, such as diving, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach under the soft winter sun. Calm beaches and sea offer a quiet atmosphere to meditate and find peace inside. Underwater discovery with quiet sunbathing creates a dreamy world for you.

Egyptian Sahara Desert

February's cool nights and sunny days make it ideal for exploring Egypt's desert beauty. In Siwa Oasis or the Sahara Desert, you can take a desert safari over golden dunes, visit ancient ruins, and camp under the stars. The silence is pure, the landscapes are endless, and the feeling is unforgettable. You can disconnect, slow down, and experience Egypt's natural magic.

Siwa Oasis

Things to do in Egypt in February

Hot Air Balloon Ride to Fly Over Ancient Sites

Recommended for: Leisure Travelers, and History Lovers

Take off before dawn and rise into the sky for a magical sunrise hot air balloon ride over Luxor. In February, the cool and clear morning air offers perfect flying conditions. From above, you'll see the Valley of the Kings, Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and the green stretch of the Nile River weaving through the golden desert. It's a peaceful and unforgettable way to take in Egypt's ancient beauty.

Nile Cruises & Felucca Rides Along the Nile River

Recommended for: Couples, Leisure Travelers, and Nature Lovers

February brings mild sunshine and soft breezes, ideal for a relaxing Nile experience. Enjoy a traditional felucca ride or a slow cruise between Luxor and Aswan, passing riverside temples, small villages, and palm groves. Walk along the Nile's edge during golden hour, or sip tea while watching the sunset from your boat. You'll move slowly, breathe deeply, and enjoy Egypt's timeless rhythm.

Recommended Tour Itinerary

Best of Egypt with Nile Cruise 7 DAYS Explore This Tour

Explore Markets & Bazaars to Know Local Life

Recommended for: Culture Lovers, Shoppers, and Food Lovers

February's cool temperatures and a few tourists bring relaxed, personal moments to Egypt's colorful markets. Wander through Cairo's Khan El-Khalili Bazaar or Aswan's spice markets at your own pace. Try sweet mint tea, hear local stories, and shop for handmade treasures while soaking in the warm winter sun. Take it easy to connect with local life and take home more than just souvenirs.

Visit Museums & Learn Egyptian Culture

Recommended for: Culture Lovers, and Art Enthusiasts

With the heat gone and crowds smaller, February is perfect for slow cultural exploration. Discover ancient treasures at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo or learn about Nubian heritage and the Sun Festival at Aswan's Nubian Museum. The cool weather invites you to take your time to sit, read, reflect, and absorb the history in comfort and calm.

Yoga & Meditation to Find Peace Inside

Recommended for: Peace Seekers, and Nature Lovers

If you're seeking peace of mind, Egypt offers unique wellness spots in February. Join a yoga class in New Cairo, practice by Lake Qarun in Faiyum, or try desert meditation in Aswan. The gentle weather, open landscapes, and soft winter lights create an ideal setting for grounding and clarity. It's a special way to connect with Egypt—and with yourself.

Recommended Tour Itinerary

Egypt In-Depth Tour With Grand Egyptian Museum 16 DAYS Explore This Tour

Festivals & Events

Abu Simbel Sun Festival (February 22)

Twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, the Abu Simbel Temples witness a remarkable solar alignment in Egypt. The sun's rays illuminate the inner sanctum, lighting up the statues of Ramses II, Amun, and Ra, while Ptah remains in shadow. It is celebrated with traditional Nubian music, dance performances, and local festivities, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Ramadan (Dates vary)

Ramadan is the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, and the dates vary each year based on the lunar calendar. In 2026, it is expected to begin around February 17 and end around March 19. During this period, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, and the evenings come alive with communal meals called iftar, festive gatherings, and special prayers. You can experience the rich cultural traditions, enjoy special Ramadan treats, and witness the illuminated streets and mosques.

More Tips

Pack for Warm Days and Cool Nights

In February, Egypt's sun is warm during the day, but mornings and nights can be cold, especially in the desert or near the Nile. It's a good idea to wear layers. Bring short sleeves for the daytime, and pack a sweater or light jacket for the evening.

Protect Yourself From the Sun

Even though it's winter, the sun in Egypt is still strong. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe a hat. You will spend a lot of time outside, especially if you take a Nile cruise or visit ancient sites. Bringing bottled water is helpful to stay hydrated as you explore.

Be Mindful of Local Culture

In February, Ramadan might begin (depending on the year), and you may notice some changes, like shops closing early or people fasting during the day. Be respectful if this happens. Additionally, when visiting mosques or temples, dress modestly and follow any local rules.

Plan Your Egypt Tour With Odynovo

Plan and start your Egypt trip in February with Odynovo. Contact us or send an email to [email protected], and we'll arrange a comfortable itinerary and offer professional advice.