The Land of Ra (Sun)
Egypt is famous for its sunny, dry climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the weather varies significantly by region. While the North Coast enjoys a Mediterranean climate, Upper Egypt (Luxor & Aswan) experiences true desert heat. Below is the live weather report for major destinations.
Live Weather Forecast 📡
The Capital
Mediterranean Coast
Upper Egypt (South)
Red Sea / Sinai
Red Sea Resort
High Mountains (Sinai)
The Winds of History
The Etesian Winds (The Meltemi): Ancient Egypt was a gift of the Nile, but also of the wind. The prevailing north wind allowed ships to sail upstream against the Nile's current, connecting the Delta to Upper Egypt. Without this wind, transporting the massive granite blocks for the pyramids and temples from Aswan to Giza would have been impossible.
Ancient Climate: During the Predynastic period (c. 5000 BC), Egypt was a lush savannah. Climate change and gradual desertification forced populations to settle closer to the Nile, giving birth to the Pharaonic civilization.
Regional Climates
🌊 The North Coast
Cities: Alexandria, Marsa Matrouh, Alamein.
Climate: Mediterranean. Winters are mild with some rain. Summers are warm and humid but refreshed by sea breezes. This is the main summer escape for Egyptians.
🕌 Cairo & The Delta
Cities: Cairo, Giza, Tanta.
Climate: Semi-desert. Hot summers with high humidity due to the Nile. Winters are cool and dry. Nights can be surprisingly chilly.
🏛️ Upper Egypt
Cities: Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel.
Climate: Arid desert. Extremely hot and dry summers (can reach 45°C+). Winters are glorious—sunny, warm days and cool nights. Perfect for winter tourism.
🐠 The Red Sea
Cities: Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab.
Climate: Warm year-round. Summer is hot but dry with a constant breeze. Winter is pleasant for swimming, though the wind can make it feel cooler out of the water.
Best Time to Visit?
Peak Season. Ideal for exploring the Pyramids, Luxor, and Aswan without the heat. Bring a jacket!
Shoulder Season. Pleasant weather for sightseeing and beach trips. Watch for occasional dust storms.
Low Season (Culture). Very hot in cities. Best time for diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea.
Ideal Balance. Great for swimming in the Red Sea and comfortable for cultural tours. High season begins.
🌪️ The "Khamasin" Winds
A unique weather phenomenon occurring in Spring (March-April). The Khamasin are hot, dry, sandy winds blowing from the desert. They can raise temperatures by 10°C in a few hours and turn the sky orange with dust. These storms usually last only 1-2 days but are an iconic part of Egypt's spring transition.
⚠️ Safety Advisory: Flash Floods (Al-Sayol)
In Sinai and the Red Sea mountains, heavy rains in winter or spring can cause sudden, dangerous flash floods in the wadis (valleys). Hikers and desert safari adventurers should always check the forecast and travel with experienced Bedouin guides who understand the terrain.
Average High Temperatures (°C)
| Month | Cairo | Alexandria | Luxor | Hurghada |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19° | 18° | 23° | 22° |
| February | 21° | 19° | 25° | 23° |
| March | 24° | 21° | 30° | 25° |
| April | 29° | 24° | 35° | 29° |
| May | 33° | 27° | 39° | 33° |
| June | 35° | 29° | 42° | 36° |
| July | 36° | 30° | 42° | 37° |
| August | 35° | 31° | 41° | 37° |
| September | 33° | 30° | 39° | 35° |
| October | 30° | 28° | 36° | 32° |
| November | 25° | 24° | 29° | 27° |
| December | 21° | 20° | 24° | 23° |
Packing Essentials
Summer (Beach & City)
- Light cotton/linen clothing (loose fitting).
- Sunscreen, Hat, and high-quality Sunglasses.
- Swimwear and snorkeling gear.
- Comfortable sandals and walking shoes.
- Note: Modest dress is respectful in cities.
Winter (Culture & Cruise)
- Layers! T-shirts for the day, sweaters for the evening.
- A medium-weight jacket (desert nights get cold).
- Closed-toe shoes for dusty archaeological sites.
- Lip balm and moisturizer (the air is dry).
- Scarf (useful for wind and warmth).