The bustling capital of Egypt, Cairo is a city renowned for its rich history, ancient pyramids, and vibrant culture. From the awe-inspiring Giza Pyramids to the bustling bazaars of Khan el-Khalili, Cairo attracts millions of tourists each year who come to explore its timeless monuments and experience its unique energy. In 2023 alone, of the 14.9 million visitors to Egypt, 9 million visited Cairo—a number only expected to rise as the city continues to captivate travelers worldwide!

However, whether you're a domestic or international traveler, knowing the best time to visit Cairo can make all the difference in experiencing its treasures comfortably and fully. To assist you in making the decision, here’s a concise guide to help you plan your trip and enjoy Cairo at its very best.

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Best Time to Visit Cairo: Quick Weather Overview

Situated just north of the Tropic of Cancer and alongside the Nile River, Cairo lies on the eastern edge of the Sahara Desert. This geographic positioning gives Cairo a desert climate with notable temperature extremes between seasons.

In simple words, Cairo’s weather patterns are typical of desert climates: hot, dry summers and mild, relatively short winters, with pleasant transitional seasons of spring and autumn. The summer temperatures in Cairo can reach as high as 34°C (93°F) in July and August, while winter days remain relatively mild, with averages around 18°C (64°F) in January. 

Note: Extreme weather events such as tornadoes or severe storms are rare in Cairo. However, spring occasionally brings khamsin winds—dry, hot winds carrying dust from the desert, which can cause temporary rises in temperature and occasional dust storms.

Here’s a quick overview of Cairo’s climate by month, along with a temperature chart to help visualize the highs and lows throughout the year.

Data Source: Holiday-Weather

Best Time to Visit Cairo: Season-by-Season Breakdown

To help you decide the best time to visit, we’ll explore each season in more detail below:

Recommended read: Best time to visit Egypt

Winter (December to February): Peak Season

Winter is an incredibly popular season to visit Cairo, drawing travelers from around the world. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures generally ranging from 9°C to 18°C in January and gradually warming as February approaches. Cairo’s winter days are characterized by sunny skies, cool breezes, and low humidity, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing. 

Why visit in winter?

Winter is Cairo’s peak tourist season for a reason: the cooler temperatures and clear skies create a welcoming environment for exploring both urban and historical desert landscapes. Unlike the scorching summer, winter’s moderate temperatures allow for long days of sightseeing, whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins in the desert or admiring the Islamic architecture of Old Cairo. Winter is especially appealing for those who prefer cooler climates and want to avoid Cairo’s intense summer sun.

The city is at its liveliest during this time, with a blend of local and international visitors bringing energy to Cairo’s streets and cultural sites. 

Considerations

• Crowd levels and prices: During Cairo’s high season, winter sees an influx of tourists, which can lead to larger crowds at popular attractions. Expect higher prices for accommodations, tours, and flights during this time. 

• Weather sensitivities: While temperatures are mild, evenings can get noticeably cooler, especially in the desert outskirts of Cairo. Those sensitive to colder temperatures should prepare for chillier nights, where temperatures can drop significantly compared to the daytime.

• Daylight hours: Winter days come with shorter daylight hours.

Data Source: Holiday-Weather

Travel Tips

• Book early: Reserve accommodations and tickets in advance to avoid peak season crowds and price hikes.

• Stay hydrated: Cairo's air is dry, so drink water throughout the day, even in cooler weather.

• Check daylight hours: Winter days are shorter, so plan outdoor activities earlier to make the most of daylight.

• Avoid holiday crowds: To skip peak crowds, visit in late January or February after the holiday season.

• Pack layers: Bring t-shirts, long sleeves, and a light jacket for daytime; add a warmer coat for evenings.

Not sure what to bring? Check out our "What to Pack for Egypt: The Ultimate Packing Checklist" to make sure you’re fully prepared for your adventure!

Summer (June to August): Off-Peak Season

Summer in Cairo is the city's off-peak tourist season, as the weather becomes intensely hot and dry. Daytime temperatures regularly reach 34°C (93°F) or higher in July and August, with minimal rainfall and strong desert sun throughout the season. The combination of high temperatures and low humidity makes summer a challenging time for extended outdoor activities.

Why visit in summer?

Summer is ideal for visiting Cairo for those looking for budget-friendly travel options and fewer crowds. The intense heat discourages many tourists, which results in lower prices for accommodations, flights, and even some tours. While the midday sun can be relentless, the quieter atmosphere allows for a more relaxed experience at major attractions like the Egyptian Museum or the Giza Pyramids. If you’re comfortable with warm climates or plan to focus on indoor sites, summer can be a rewarding and cost-effective time to visit Cairo.

Data Source: Holiday-Weather

Considerations

• Heat intensity: Expect extremely high temperatures, especially in July and August, with little relief in the evenings. The heat can be overwhelming.

• Daylight hours: While summer days offer long hours of daylight, it’s best to schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak heat.

Travel Tips

• Stay indoors during peak heat: Plan to visit outdoor attractions early in the morning or after sunset when temperatures are cooler.

• Pack lightweight clothing: Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing to stay cool, along with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection from the intense sun.

• Hydrate constantly: The heat and dry air can lead to dehydration quickly, so carry water with you at all times and drink regularly.

• Look for the best deals: Since summer is Cairo’s off-peak season, look for discounts on hotels and tours to save on travel expenses.

Shoulder Season (Spring & Autumn: March to May, September to November)

The shoulder months of March to May and September to November are considered the best times to visit Cairo, striking a perfect balance between pleasant weather and moderate crowd levels. During these months, the city enjoys comfortable temperatures, with spring (March to May) ranging from 12°C to 27°C and autumn (September to November) ranging from 14°C to 28°C. Humidity remains low, and the weather is significantly more manageable than in summer, making it ideal for exploring Cairo's many outdoor attractions.

Why visit in spring and autumn?

Spring and autumn offer the best of both worlds: warm but not overly hot temperatures, fewer tourists than in peak winter, and more affordable accommodations. The weather during these months is well-suited for sightseeing, and you can fully enjoy the city without the discomfort of summer's intense heat or the larger winter crowds.

These seasons allow for diverse experiences, from touring the Giza Plateau to exploring the architectural wonders of Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo. Adventurous activities like desert safaris and Nile river cruises are also particularly enjoyable, providing scenic views without the harsh summer sun. Additionally, Cairo’s gardens and parks are at their most vibrant in spring, offering lovely spots for relaxation.

Considerations

• Moderate crowds: Shoulder seasons bring a manageable level of tourist traffic. While not as quiet as summer, they offer a more relaxed experience at major attractions compared to winter.

• Occasional khamsin winds: In spring, Cairo can experience khamsin winds—hot, dusty winds from the desert. Though temporary, these winds can create dusty conditions, so those with respiratory sensitivities should be prepared.

• Variable temperatures: Though generally mild, evenings can be cooler, especially in early spring and late autumn, so you will need to plan for varied temperatures throughout the day.

Travel Tips

• Dress for flexibility: Pack comfortable layers for the mild daytime temperatures, with a light jacket for the cooler evenings.

• Prepare for dusty days: In spring, carry a scarf or face covering in case of khamsin winds, which can affect air quality and visibility.

• Take advantage of deals: Shoulder seasons often offer better rates for accommodations and tours than peak winter, so keep an eye out for discounts and promotions.

So, which is the best time to visit Cairo?

The ideal time to visit Cairo depends on your priorities—whether it’s budget, comfort, or the overall experience. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• For budget travelers: If you're looking to travel on a tighter budget and don’t mind the intense heat, summer (June to August) is the best time. You’ll find lower prices on accommodations and flights, along with fewer crowds at major attractions.

• For balanced budget and comfort: If you want a mix of budget-friendly rates and comfortable weather for outdoor exploration, then the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn)—March to May and September to November—are perfect. You’ll enjoy warm but manageable temperatures, moderate crowds, and a relaxed experience at Cairo’s top sites.

• For peak experience: If budget isn’t a concern and you want to immerse yourself in Cairo at its liveliest, winter (December to February) is ideal. The cooler weather and clear skies make it easy to explore Cairo’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Ultimately, Cairo is a city that offers unique experiences in every season. Whether you're exploring ancient monuments, strolling through colorful markets, or cruising the Nile, Cairo will captivate you with its timeless beauty and energy.

Visiting Egypt soon? Check out our “Complete Egypt Travel Guide” where we cover everything from what to pack, essential apps to download, travel tips, and more for a seamless adventure!