Order – Apr 1, 2019 @

January is one of Egypt’s best months for sightseeing — and one of its most misunderstood. Daytime temperatures are genuinely pleasant (Cairo 14–19°C, Luxor 18–23°C, Aswan 19–24°C) with clear skies and virtually no rain. But nights are cold — Aswan drops to 8°C, Luxor to 7°C, Cairo to 9°C — which surprises visitors who pack for a ‘warm’ destination. Crowds are at or near peak levels (January is high season), but pricing drops sharply after the New Year holiday rush: 1–7 January sees inflated rates, 8–31 January offers some of the best value of the entire peak season. Coptic Christmas on 7 January is one of Egypt’s most moving cultural events.

October is considered one of Egypt’s two or three best months to visit, and it may be considered the very best month for newcomers. The summer temperatures start to abate: Cairo – 22-32°C, Luxor and Aswan – 25-37°C (early in the month) and 20-32°C (late), Red Sea – 26-32°C, water 27-28°C. The crowds are swelling but haven’t reached their peak yet. Prices start increasing from mid-October as the peak season starts approaching. The Abu Simbel Sun Festival which takes place on October 21-22 is among the most spectacular annual festivals in Egypt.

September is a shoulder month in Egypt – not ideal, but not bad either, and much better than what is recommended by many online resources. Temperatures are still high (Cairo 24-35°C, Luxor/Aswan 25-39°C in the beginning of September, going down to 22-35°C at the end of the month), but prices are lower by 15-25% compared to October-November, people are few at the antiquities, and diving conditions on the Red Sea are perfect (water temperature 28-29°C, excellent visibility). The main idea: visit temples in Upper Egypt between 6:00 am and 9:30 am, and organize everything else in the late afternoon or Red Sea area.