Weather in Egypt in December

Winter settles in, bringing the coolest temperatures of the year. The days are shorter but still bright, with comfortable weather that attracts visitors escaping colder climates elsewhere. Here is our complete guide to the weather in Egypt in December.

The weather in Egypt in December at a glance

  • Cool and crisp with temperatures averaging around 52-70°F (11-21°C).
  • Clear skies and hardly any rain. It's prime time for cultural and archaeological tours.
  • Great for daytime exploring, but bring a sweater for nights.
  • Gets busier around Christmas and New Year's, so book early if you're coming then.

Is December a good time to visit Egypt?

December is the start of Egypt’s winter season, bringing cooler weather that's great for sightseeing. It’s one of the best months to visit the Pyramids, and Luxor’s temples, or take a leisurely stroll through Cairo without overheating. The weather in Egypt in December is comfortable enough to spend long days outdoors.

The Red Sea remains a solid option in December, though the waters are definitely cooler than in the summer. Diving and snorkeling are still on the agenda, especially in southern destinations like Marsa Alam, but beach time is more about relaxing than swimming.

If you’re looking for a break from the holiday rush elsewhere, Egypt in December offers a quieter, more laid-back experience. Just be sure to pack a light jacket for the cooler evenings.

Rough Guides tip: Decide when to plan your trip with our guide to the best time to visit Egypt.

Mosque of Al Rifai and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan - panoramic view of old town in Cairo

The weather in Egypt in December is great for city trips ©Shutterstock

Average daily temperatures in December

December is one of the coolest months in Egypt, but it’s still comfortable. In Cairo, expect highs of 67°F (19°C) and lows around 51°F (11°C). In Luxor and Aswan, temperatures are warmer during the day, with highs of 74°F (23°C), but drop to 48°F (9°C) at night. Hurghada enjoys pleasant highs of 71°F (22°C) and lows of 56°F (13°C).

Rain remains minimal, with Cairo receiving around 0.3 inches (8mm), and almost nothing falls elsewhere.

Daylight lasts about 10.5 hours—shorter, but still enough time to explore Egypt’s iconic landmarks without rushing.

Medinat Habu, Luxor, Egypt © Shutterstock

Medinat Habu, Luxor, Egypt © Shutterstock

What about crowds and costs?

December in Egypt means peak season, especially around Christmas and New Year. Tourists tend to flock to Egypt for winter sunshine and holiday breaks — in turn, pushing up prices for flights, hotels, and tours. You can expect crowded attractions like the Sphinx and the Valley of the Kings, with long lines. Booking ahead is crucial to avoid high rates and limited availability.

Wondering how long your trip should be? See our guide to how many days you should spend in Egypt.

Things to do in Egypt in December

Planning a trip to Egypt? You'll want to factor in the weather and what makes this month unique when planning your itinerary. If your looking for more inspiration, see what made our list of the best things to do in Egypt year-round.

Celebrate Christmas and New Year in Cairo or at Red Sea resorts 

Egypt might not be the first place you think of for holiday celebrations, but it’s an unforgettable choice. In Cairo, you can experience Christmas at ancient Coptic churches like the Hanging Church in Old Cairo. For something more relaxed, head to the Red Sea resorts like Sharm El-Sheikh or Hurghada. You’ll find palm trees, pristine beaches, and grand New Year’s parties at the resorts.

Visit the Pyramids of Giza

You can’t leave Egypt without seeing the iconic Pyramids of Giza. Skip the guided camel rides—they’re often overpriced and not always ethical—but take your time exploring the complex. For a different perspective, catch the Sound and Light Show at night. It’s a bit touristy, but the mystical atmosphere is worth it. Early morning is the best time to visit before the crowds arrive and the desert sun heats up.

felucca-boat-nile-river-aswan-egypt-shutterstock_716551384

Felucca boat on the Nile River, Egypt © Shutterstock

The Bent and Red Pyramids at Dahshur

Just a 40-minute drive south of Cairo, Dahshur is a great place to escape from the crowds and a chance to see some lesser-known pyramids. The Bent Pyramid, with its unusual angles, shows the evolution of pyramid design. Nearby, you’ll find the Red Pyramid, Egypt’s first true smooth-sided pyramid, which you can even explore from the inside.

Visit the Coptic Museum in Cairo 

The Coptic Museum is a hidden gem that highlights the city’s Christian heritage. It’s all about Egypt’s Coptic Christian community, one of the world’s oldest. The collection showcases art, textiles, and ancient manuscripts, blending Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences in early Christian art.

Discover the Temple of Horus in Edfu

The Temple of Horus in Edfu is one of Egypt’s best-preserved ancient temples. Dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god, it’s filled with hieroglyphs and reliefs that tell stories of pharaohs and gods. Because Edfu is a bit off the beaten path, you’ll have time to enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Be sure to check out the inner sanctuary where offerings were once made to Horus.

Festivals and events in Egypt in December

There are several festivals and events that take place in Egypt in December. Here's our pick:

  • Moulid of Sayeda Zeinab: Religious festival in Cairo honoring Prophet Muhammad's granddaughter, featuring processions, chanting, and markets.
  • Cairo Comix Festival: Annual comics festival showcasing local and international comic artists, held in various venues across Cairo.
  • Christmas and New Year's Eve Celebrations: Many hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas in Egypt, especially in Cairo and the Red Sea resorts, host festive events and offer special holiday packages to celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year. 

Decided to book a December break? For further inspo, discover more of the best places to visit in December.

St. Anthony monastery in Eastern desert, Egypt © Shutterstock

St. Anthony monastery in Eastern desert, Egypt © Shutterstock

Ready for your dream trip to Egypt?

Our tailor made trip service allows you to go on the trip of your dreams without the planning or hassle. Our trips are personally created by local travel experts and can be completely customized. 

  • A Nile Cruise in Egypt (8 days): See Cairo’s highlights, then cruise from Luxor, visiting Karnak, Valley of Kings, and optionally, Abu Simbel.
  • Five Star Egypt (8 days): Enjoy a luxury Nile cruise, discovering Giza, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, with highlights like Abu Simbel.
  • An introduction to Egypt (7 days): See the Giza pyramids, explore Cairo’s busy streets, and visit temples near Luxor, traveling by train.

Or for more inspiration, see our trip ideas gallery.

Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 21.10.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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