Summer and winter are the two main seasons in Egypt. Winter starts in November and lasts until April while summer starts in May and runs through October. In Egypt, summer is dry and can be sweltering at certain times during the day, which is why this time of the year is regarded as the off-season for tourism.
Still, even with the dry desert heat, traveling to Egypt in the summer should not be out of the question. While the climate might be milder during winter, there are some benefits to visiting Egypt during the summer.
The following is a look at the benefits of traveling to Egypt in May, June, July, and August, as well as the first part of September, along with tips, things to do and see, what to expect in terms of the weather, and the basics you should pack for the trip.
Benefits of Visiting Egypt in the Summer
I. You Will Encounter Fewer Tourists
Nobody wants to have to fend off scores of tourists while vacationing. During Egypt’s high season, monuments, tombs, mosques, and other attractions will likely be full of visitors, which means that tours will likely take longer. More time wasted waiting in line means missing some of the must-see sights on your list.
If you travel in the summer, when it’s the hottest, however, you won’t have to deal with the usual crowds. Traveling to Egypt in the summer allows more time to explore the country’s culture and history, enjoy the desert views, capture amazing photos, and create memories to last a lifetime.
II. Prices May Be Lower
Summer is the off-season, so flights, hotel prices, and Egypt tour packages may be priced lower than during the high season. Depending on the length of your stay, you could end up saving hundreds of pounds from your total trip cost by traveling to Egypt in the summer. That would leave you with more money to spend on souvenirs at Cairo’s famed souk, Khan-el-Khalili. You could also upgrade your hotel room to a luxurious suite.
III. Air-Conditioned Private Transportation Will Keep You Cool
Egypt can get quite steamy during summer, but you can always ride in a private air-conditioned vehicle if you book a luxury tour. A comfortable temperature-controlled ride can make quite a difference when you are out and about on those hot summer days.
Things to See and Do in Egypt in Summer
I. Spend Time on Egypt’s Lovely Beaches
Summer is a great time of the year to experience the Egyptian coast even though the beaches won’t necessarily be less crowded in warm, sunny weather. If you’re planning a visit to Egypt in the summer, then Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, and the new Egyptian museum should top your list of spots to see. You will have up to 14 hours of sunshine a day, which is ideal for swimming, wading, sunbathing, and water sports.
II. Sail on the Nile
Board a felucca (simple Egyptian sailboat) and cruise on the Nile, which is one of the world’s most iconic water bodies. Relax; stop along the route to swim, and take in the sweeping river views. The vast majority of Egypt’s private tours can easily accommodate a sail on the Nile. If it isn’t on your itinerary, just request it.
III. Go Scuba Diving in the Red Sea
The Red Sea is technically an extension of the Indian Ocean and is one of the premier scuba diving destinations in the world. Since temperatures in the Red Sea hover in the 80s in summer, you are likely to spend more time in the water. Expect excellent viewing of coral reefs along with other marine life as well as amazing photo ops.