Weather Egypt in July

This is the heart of summer, and the temperatures are pretty extreme both day and night. If you're planning outdoor activities, early mornings or late evenings are your best bet to avoid the heat. Here is our complete guide to the weather in Egypt in July.

The weather in Egypt in July at a glance

• Brace yourself for average temperatures of 77-100°F (25-38°C). 
• It's scorching everywhere, but the coast is a bit more bearable.
• In particular in Luxor and Aswan: the heat can be intense during the day.
• A fantastic time to hit the Red Sea beaches or diving.
• Not many tourists brave the heat, so it's great for budget travelers looking for deals.

Is July a good time to visit Egypt?

July is one of the hottest months in Egypt, especially in the southern regions where temperatures can soar. Sightseeing during the peak midday heat is not for the faint-hearted, but early mornings and late afternoons offer some respite. If you’re determined to explore historical sites like Luxor’s temples or the Great Pyramids, plan your days carefully, with plenty of water and breaks in the shade.

The Red Sea coast is a much cooler option, with pleasant sea breezes and warm waters perfect for diving and snorkeling. Resorts in Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada offer plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach or take advantage of Egypt’s incredible underwater world.

The weather in Egypt in July is best suited for those who want a beach-focused trip with some light sightseeing. For cultural explorations, you'll need to manage your time around the extreme heat.

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

Average daily temperatures in July

July is one of Egypt’s hottest months. In Cairo, highs reach around 95°F (35°C) during the day, cooling down to 73°F (23°C) at night. Luxor and Aswan turn into furnaces, with highs around 106°F (41°C) and lows of 77°F (25°C). Hurghada, with its coastal breeze, stays slightly cooler, averaging highs of 93°F (34°C) and lows of 77°F (25°C).

As usual, Egypt is dry as a bone, with no rainfall across the country. Daylight stretches to nearly 14 hours, but you’ll want to plan your outdoor activities early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the sweltering midday heat.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best vacation destinations in July.

What about crowds and costs?

The weather in Egypt in July is scorching, especially in places like Luxor and Aswan, where temperatures often exceed 104°F (40°C). Tourist numbers for this reason are very low, and accommodation costs drop. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest times to visit. The Red Sea beach resorts still draw those looking for lower rates and clear waters.

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 July

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.

The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa in Alexandria

Escape Alexandria’s July heat by heading down into the cool, eerie depths of the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. This ancient subway burial site blends Egyptian, Roman, and Greek influences, and is a fascinating place to explore.

Alexandria National Museum

With the city’s sweltering July temperatures, the Alexandria National Museum is a perfect spot to beat the heat. Located in a beautifully restored Italian-style palace, it’s filled with artifacts from Egypt’s Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, and Islamic periods. Check out the basement for underwater treasures recovered from Alexandria’s ancient harbors.

Take a Nile dinner cruise in Aswan 

July evenings in Aswan bring some relief from the day’s heat, making it the ideal time for a Nile dinner cruise. As you sail along the river, enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal while watching the sunset over the Nubian desert and Elephantine Island. Some cruises even feature live music.

Visit the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo

When Cairo’s heat is overwhelming, step into the air-conditioned Museum of Islamic Art for a cool break. You’ll find intricately designed textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and manuscripts from across the Islamic world. The museum’s restoration after a 2014 bombing is impressive, and the spacious, well-lit galleries make it easy to appreciate the centuries-old craftsmanship.

Enjoy snorkeling and diving in Marsa Alam 

Situated on the Red Sea coast, Marsa Alam is a quieter alternative to Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh, with stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life. The warm waters are ideal for exploring sites like the Dolphin House Reef and Elphinstone Reef. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dugongs, the gentle sea cows that call these waters home.

Festivals and events in Egypt in July

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

• El Gouna Summer Festival: Red Sea resort town hosts cultural events, concerts, and activities for locals and tourists throughout summer.
• Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theater: Showcases innovative theatrical productions from Egypt and abroad, pushing boundaries of performance art.
• Eid al-Adha: A major Islamic vacation honoring prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son. Celebrated with prayers, family gatherings, and charity.

For more practical guidance that will help you make the most of your trip, have a chat with our local Egypt experts, who can help you plan your dream trip.

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. 

• The best of Egypt (8 days): Explore Egypt’s history, from Cairo to Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel, traveling on luxurious sleeper trains.
• Cairo & luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise (13 days): Sail a traditional dahabieh, exploring famous sites in Cairo and Giza, plus hidden treasures like el Kab and Gebel Silsileh.
• A Nile Cruise in Egypt (8 days): See Cairo’s highlights, then cruise from Luxor, visiting Karnak, Valley of Kings, and optionally, Abu Simbel.

Or for more inspiration, see our trip ideas gallery.