Weather Egypt in March

Spring starts to wake up in Egypt, and you’ll notice the days getting warmer. Sometimes, a sandstorm might sweep through the desert regions, adding a little drama to the landscape. Here is our complete guide to the weather in Egypt in March.

The weather in Egypt in March at a glance

• Spring is in the air with temperatures ranging from 55-77°F (13-25°C), with warmer days and cool nights.
• It's mostly sunny, but watch out for those sneaky Khamsin windstorms, especially if you're heading to the desert.
• March is  Egypt's shoulder season, and tourist numbers start to climb, but it's still pretty manageable.

Is March a good time to visit Egypt?

March marks the transition from winter to spring in Egypt, with the weather warming up but still pleasant. The days are longer, and you’ll find yourself with more time to explore famous sights like the Great Sphinx or Karnak Temple without worrying about the oppressive heat of summer.

March’s moderate temperatures make it a great time to travel across the country, from Cairo’s urban energy to Luxor’s ancient ruins. If you're heading to the desert, conditions are still ideal for safaris — just bring a jacket for the cooler evenings.

By mid-March, the Red Sea resorts start to come alive again, and water sports like diving and snorkeling become more appealing as the sea warms up. However, the weather in Egypt in March makes it the high season, so expect larger crowds and plan ahead for accommodations and tours.

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

Average daily temperatures in March

In March, Egypt starts warming up, particularly in the south. Cairo experiences highs of 74°F (23°C) and lows of 55°F (13°C) at night. In Luxor and Aswan, the average high can reach 82°F (28°C), though temperatures still drop to around 54°F (12°C) after sunset. Along the Red Sea, in Hurghada, expect highs of 77°F (25°C) and lows of 60°F (16°C).

March continues the trend of minimal rainfall, with Cairo receiving about 0.2 inches (5mm) of rain at most. The rest of Egypt, especially the southern regions, remains dry as a bone.

With about 12 hours of daylight each day, March is ideal for hitting Egypt’s top outdoor sights—whether you’re trekking through ancient ruins or lounging by the Red Sea.

If you're still looking for options for your spring trip, also explore our list of the best vacation destinations in March.

What about crowds and costs?

With temperatures warming up, March is perfect if you want to avoid the peak-season crowds and the worst of the heat. Popular sites stay busy but aren’t packed. Compared to earlier months, you'll find that prices also often take a dip in March a little — especially if you book early.

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 March

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 Temple of Karnak

Head to Luxor in March to visit the Temple of Karnak. On March 20th, during the Spring Equinox, sunlight aligns perfectly with its columns, a stunning architectural feat. March’s mild weather makes exploring Karnak’s vast complex much more comfortable.

Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara

Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, offers a glimpse into Egypt's architectural history. This pyramid, the oldest stone structure in Egypt, marks a turning point in pyramid construction. Saqqara is less crowded than Giza, giving you a quieter experience while exploring its expansive complex.

The markets of Aswan 

Aswan’s markets are packed with colorful textiles, spices, jewelry, and Nubian artifacts. While you’re there, try local delicacies like hibiscus tea and fresh bread. The spring weather makes exploring the markets comfortable, and you’ll get an authentic taste of Aswan’s laid-back charm.

The Coptic monasteries of Wadi Natrun 

Wadi Natrun, between Cairo and Alexandria, is home to some of Egypt’s oldest monasteries, dating back to the fourth century. T These monasteries, like Deir Anba Bishoy and Deir El-Suryani, are still active. You can explore ancient chapels, frescoes, and libraries while learning about Coptic Christianity’s deep history.

Luxor African Film Festival 

Every March, Luxor hosts the African Film Festival, celebrating African cinema. . Screenings are held in various venues, some even outdoors with Luxor’s historical monuments in the background. Between films, take the chance to explore Luxor’s temples and tombs.

Festivals and events in Egypt in March

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

• Ismailia International Film Festival: Showcases documentaries and short films from around the world, promoting cultural exchange through cinema.
• D-CAF: Multi-disciplinary arts festival in Downtown Cairo featuring contemporary music, theater, dance, visual arts, and new media performances.
• Luxor African Film Festival: Celebrates African cinema and filmmakers, showcasing features, shorts, and documentaries in the historic city of Luxor.

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. 

• 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.
• The best of Egypt (8 days): Explore Egypt’s history, from Cairo to Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel, traveling on luxurious sleeper trains.

Or for more inspiration, see our trip ideas gallery.