Weather in Egypt in December

Forget the scorching summer heat, December is when Egypt finally breathes. The sun’s still out, the skies stay clear, and the cooler air makes temples, tombs, and souks way easier to handle. It’s the sweet spot for travel: not too hot, not too crowded (until the vacations hit).

Here’s what to expect from the weather in Egypt in December.

Egypt in December at a glance

• Mild and dry, with daytime temperatures around 52-70°F (11-21°C).
• Blue skies almost every day, with barely any rain.
• Ideal for cultural and archaeological tours across Cairo, Luxor, and beyond.
• Nights can get chilly, so pack a sweater or light jacket.
• Busier around Christmas and New Year: book flights and hotels early.

What is the weather like in Egypt in December?

If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, December is when the desert heat finally lets up. Across most of the country, the weather is cool, dry, and sunny, a welcome break from the sweltering summer months.

Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan see daytime highs between 65-75°F (18-24°C), with cooler nights that can drop into the 50s (10-15°C). Out in the desert or along the Nile, temperatures can swing fast, so pack layers, especially if you’re heading out early for sunrise tours or felucca rides.

Rain is rare, even in the north. Coastal cities like Alexandria might catch a quick shower, but most of Egypt stays bone dry.

If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Egypt, this is it. December offers great conditions for exploring pyramids, temples, and markets without the heat. Just keep in mind that tourist numbers spike around Christmas and New Year, so book early if you want the best rates on flights and hotels.

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.

Is December a good time to visit Egypt?

December is a great time for Egypt trips, especially if you want to explore without the heat. It’s the start of the country’s winter season, with cooler weather that makes visiting the Pyramids, wandering Luxor’s temples, or strolling through Cairo much more comfortable.

The weather in Egypt in December is mild and dry, ideal for long days outdoors. It’s also a solid choice for Egypt with kids, since the lower temperatures make sightseeing easier on little legs (and a lot more enjoyable for the adults too).

Along the Red Sea, the vibe shifts from sunbathing to relaxing. The water’s cooler, but diving and snorkeling are still doable, particularly in southern spots like Marsa Alam. Just don’t expect peak beach weather.

If you're trying to escape the vacation chaos elsewhere, Egypt in December offers a slower pace and fewer crowds, at least until the Christmas and New Year rush kicks in. Pack layers for the evenings, which can get surprisingly chilly.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• Cooler weather for sightseeing: With daytime temps around 65-75°F (18-24°C), December is ideal for exploring pyramids, temples, and ancient ruins without the heat slowing you down.
• Clear skies and dry air: Rain is rare across most of the country, and you’ll get plenty of sunshine.
• Best time for cultural travel: From Cairo’s museums to Luxor’s tombs, this is one of the most comfortable months for seeing Egypt’s big-ticket sites.
• Good diving conditions: The Red Sea stays warm enough for diving and snorkeling, with excellent visibility and fewer boats than in high season.
• Festive but not chaotic: Things pick up around Christmas and New Year, but early December is quieter, a great time to visit before the crowds arrive.

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 vacation 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. Reservation ahead is crucial to avoid high rates and limited availability.

Where to go in Egypt in December

The weather in Egypt in December is cool and dry, perfect for long days outdoors without the heat slowing you down. It’s one of the best times to explore, and you’ll find that some of the best places to visit in Egypt are even more rewarding in winter, with fewer crowds and ideal conditions for sightseeing.

Luxor

December is one of the best times to visit Luxor. The air is crisp, the sun is out, and temperatures hover around the low 70s°F (low 20s°C), a world away from the summer scorch.

Walk through the Valley of the Kings, wander Karnak Temple, or sail the Nile at sunset without dripping in sweat. It’s still a popular time, though, so book key tours and accommodations ahead if you're traveling around Christmas.

Cairo

Cairo’s chaos is easier to handle in December. The cooler temps make it far more pleasant to explore Islamic Cairo, the Egyptian Museum, and the city’s buzzing souks.

Visit Coptic sites like the Hanging Church, and take a day trip to Saqqara or Dahshur if you want to skip the Giza crowds. Mornings are chilly, so pack layers if you’re heading out early.

Red Sea Resorts (Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh)

For warm sun and sea air, head to the Red Sea coast. Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada still offer comfortable beach weather, though the water’s cooler than in summer. It’s not peak swimming season, but you can still snorkel coral reefs or relax by the sea.

December is also a great time to dive; visibility is excellent, and boat tours are still running.

Siwa Oasis

If you’re looking for somewhere quieter, Siwa Oasis is well worth the journey in December. The days are sunny, the nights are cold, and the salt lakes shimmer under the winter light.

It's far less touristy than Egypt’s bigger sites and gives you a slower, more local experience. Don’t miss the ancient Oracle Temple and a soak in the hot springs.

Things to do in Egypt in December

Planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Egypt? December brings cooler weather and a unique mix of seasonal highlights that are worth keeping in mind as you map out your itinerary.

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

Egypt might not be the first place you think of for vacation celebrations, but it’s an unforgettable choice. In Cairo, you can experience Christmas at ancient Coptic churches like the Hanging Church in Old Cairo, where traditions run deep and the atmosphere feels both festive and historic.

For something more relaxed, head to the Red Sea resorts like Sharm El-Sheikh or Hurghada. You’ll find palm trees, warm winter sun, and some of the best beaches in Egypt, perfect for unwinding between grand New Year’s Eve 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.

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.

Plan your trip with our Egypt itineraries

Our luxury tailor-made vacations allow 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.

• Egypt itinerary 7 days: Start in Cairo with the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum. Fly to Luxor to explore the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. End your trip with a Nile cruise or a felucca ride at sunset.
• Egypt itinerary 10 days: Begin in Cairo, then head to Alexandria for ancient ruins and Mediterranean vibes. Fly to Luxor and take your time with its temples and tombs before continuing south to Aswan. Finish your trip at a Red Sea resort like Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh for snorkeling, seafood, and downtime by the sea.

Or for more inspiration, see our trip ideas gallery.