Travel advice for Egypt
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Egypt
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Inspired?Summer's around the corner, and the heat is definitely ramping up. The days are getting warmer, and it's also the start of Egypt's peak tourist season. Here is our complete guide to the weather in Egypt in May.
Created by local experts
May marks the start of Egypt’s summer season, and the temperatures begin to rise, particularly in southern regions like Aswan and Luxor. However, it’s still bearable for outdoor activities, especially in the mornings and evenings. You can explore Cairo’s cultural sites or sail down the Nile without feeling like you are melting.
If you’re heading to the Red Sea, May is prime time. The waters are warm, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada offer excellent conditions for underwater exploration, and coastal resorts are buzzing with activity.
Just be aware that from mid-May onwards, the heat of the weather in Egypt in May can become more intense, especially in desert areas. Plan your sightseeing for early in the day, and take advantage of Egypt’s air-conditioned museums and indoor attractions during the hottest hours.
Rough Guides tip: Decide when to plan your trip with our guide to the best time to visit Egypt.
May is when Egypt’s famous heat really kicks in. In Cairo, you’ll see daytime highs of 90°F (32°C), with nighttime temperatures falling to around 66°F (19°C). The southern regions of Luxor and Aswan become downright sizzling, with highs reaching 99°F (37°C) and lows staying around 70°F (21°C). Hurghada offers a bit of coastal relief, with highs of 88°F (31°C) and lows around 72°F (22°C).
Rain? Forget about it. May is bone dry across the entire country, with virtually no precipitation in Cairo or anywhere else.
Expect around 13.5 hours of daylight each day. It’s a perfect time for a Nile cruise—just remember to stay hydrated.
Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best holiday destinations in May.
As Egypt heats up, you'll find that tourist numbers typically drop. Major attractions like Karnak Temple and the Egyptian Museum are far less crowded, and savvy travelers can snag deals on hotels and tours, especially in coastal areas like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, where summer vacationers haven’t arrived yet. Just be sure that you are prepared for the heat.
Wondering how long your trip should be? See our guide to how many days you should spend in Egypt.
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.
As the sun sets, the Karnak Temple complex transforms into a dramatic audio-visual show that takes you through its ancient history. Sure, it’s a bit touristy, but sitting under the stars as the past unfolds around you is a memorable way to end your day in Luxor.
May is a great time to visit the Citadel of Qaitbay in Alexandria, just before the intense summer heat kicks in. This 15th-century fortress sits at the tip of the harbor, built on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria. You'll get stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the city’s skyline.
The Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon god Horus, is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt and a must-see in May. It’s filled with intricate hieroglyphs and massive columns, and the reliefs showing the epic battle between Horus and his rival Seth are a highlight. Try to arrive early in the day to avoid the heat and beat the cruise boat crowds.
These colorful riverside communities give you a glimpse into a different side of Egyptian culture, with their unique architecture, language, and traditions. A boat ride to the villages takes you along the Nile, where you’ll find friendly locals, brightly painted homes, and a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy some traditional Nubian food, and shop for handmade crafts.
This stunning nature reserve is home to two man-made lakes, cascading waterfalls, and expansive desert landscapes. Wadi El Rayan is also a wildlife sanctuary, where you might spot rare species like the slender-horned gazelle. It’s perfect for a day trip filled with activities like sandboarding, birdwatching, or just relaxing by the waterfalls.
There are several festivals and events that take place in Egypt in May. Here's our pick:
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.
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.
Or for more inspiration, see our trip ideas gallery.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Egypt
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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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