Best Time to Visit Egypt

The best time to visit Egypt is during October to April, which is the winter season in the country. Egypt is the land of the ancient pharaohs. It is the repository of ancient culture and historical sites. However, Egypt has a lot to offer to adventure lovers as well. It is not without reason that tourists from all across the world travel to Egypt to soak in the wonders of the land.

When planning to visit Egypt, you will want to consider when you want to visit as well as all the important places to cover.

Winter

• Time Period: October to February
• Temperature Range: 18 to 26 degrees Celsius
• Average Rainfall: Around 5 mm

The winter season is the most common time for people to choose to go to Egypt. This is because the cool weather and low temperatures make it the best time to visit Egypt. However, it will be a good idea to make proper plans and book accordingly before visiting Egypt as this is the peak season.

Let us look at the things to do and places to visit in Egypt during this season:

1. Visit the majestic Pyramids of Giza

2. Go to the ancient Karnak Temple

3. Go to the Colossi of Memnon

4. Trek to the Sinai Mountains

5. Pay a visit to the Mummification Museum

6. Walk or cycle around Siwa

7. Soak in the historical ambience of Luxor

8. Explore the Temple of Seti at Abydos

9. Do some bird-watching at Fayoum

10. Go on a short trip to Alexandria

Summer

• Time Period: May to August
• Temperature Range: 17 to 36 degrees Celsius
• Average Rainfall: Nil

You can always plan your travels as per your time and convenience. However, when it comes to Egypt, the summer months may not be the ideal time to visit Egypt. This is because it is very hot. The scorching heat makes it difficult to go sightseeing in Egypt.

The temperature can go up to 36 degrees Celsius, making it difficult for tourists who are not accustomed to it. However, if you need to travel to Egypt during this season, do not forget to carry country-appropriate summer clothes, water bottles, sunscreens and sunglasses.

The time from March to April is the most budget-friendly time to visit Egypt. The early summer climate shows temperatures between 11 to 28 degrees Celsius, which is comfortable for most people.

Budget travellers have a great advantage. They can focus more on soaking in the ambience of a new place. Egypt is a good option if you are a budget traveller.

You can save money on accommodation by staying at hostels instead of hotels. Additionally, sticking to the easily available local food and eating at kosheries is another good option for saving money on food.

You can do a range of things while budget-travelling in this country. For instance, visit the Sphinx, click pictures, explore Abu Simbel, and opt for diving at Dahab. You can also explore the valley of Kings. Finally, try the tea and sheesha combo at Cairo, which is the 'land of the teahouse.'

Given below are some of the essential things you must know before you travel to Egypt from India:

• Most tourists require a visa to travel to Egypt. However, the visa-exempt countries are Hong Kong, Kuwait, Oman, Macao, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia.
• You can even apply for the Egyptian e-visa if you meet the requirements.
• There is also the provision of a visa on arrival. You will have to stand in long queues and complete the necessary formalities at the Egyptian border.
• It would be helpful if you get vaccinated for Typhoid, Rabies, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B.
• There are multiple Egyptian tour packages that travel agents offer. Choose the one most suitable for you.
• Though most people will be able to understand English, it would be helpful if you learned some basic Arabic phrases.
• Note that the Egyptian Pound or LE (Livre Egyptienne) is the official currency of Egypt.
• Do not forget to carry cash because you will be expected to tip.
• You will face no problem transacting with major debit and credit cards as hotels and larger shops widely accept them. But, make sure you inform your bank before travelling.
• Carry loose-fitting clothes, a power bank and a universal travel adaptor.
• Packing in some first-aid materials and over-the-counter medicines is a good idea.
• Carry tissues and toilet tissues.
• Carry sturdy walking shoes.
• If you need a SIM card for travelling in Egypt, you can get one at the Orange Kiosk at the Cairo International Airport. You will have to show your passport and ensure your phone is unlocked before travelling.

Listed below are some tips that would be useful while you are travelling in Egypt:

• Always keep some extra time in hand, especially in Cairo, because there is a great possibility of heavy traffic.
• Travelling with a certified and reputed tour guide will enjoy it much more.
• Consume bottled water because tap water does not have a pleasant taste.
• Do not forget to drink lots of water.
• Additionally, use high-quality sunscreen.
• Remember that tipping is essential. However, if someone says that your tip is too low, do not be offended. Instead, politely decline.
• Show respect for the local customs and culture. Do not forget to dress modestly.
• Do not overindulge in spicy food. You might fall sick because your body is not accustomed to it.
• Cross the roads carefully.
• Try to shop at local markets instead of huge malls.
• If you are shopping from local artisans, remember that the products you buy are their sole income source. So, it would be a good idea if there is a limit to your bargaining.

The most common language you will hear on your tours to Egypt is Arabic. So we have listed some phrases that you will find useful while travelling:

• Good Morning – Sabah al-khair
• Good Afternoon/Evening – Miss a el kheir
• Thank you – Shukran
• Beautiful – Jameela
• Water – Ma’an
• Let’s go – Yalla
• Peace be upon you – As-aalaam Alaikum
• Response to As-aalaam alaikum – We Aleykum As-alaam
• Hello and welcome – Ahlan we sahlan
• Hello to you (Reply of males to hello) – Ahlan Beek
• Hello to you (Reply of females to hello) – Ahlan Beeki
• What is your name (to a man) – Ismack eh
• What is your name (to a woman) – Ismick eh
• Reply to ‘what is your name’ – Ismi
• Sorry (males) – Asif
• Sorry (females) – Asfa
• How much – Kam
• Too much – Kateer!
• Where is – Ayna
• Where is the restroom – Ayna al-Hammaam
• Is it possible to have that – Momkin da
• Water – Maya
• Tea – Shey
• Turkish Coffee – Ahwa
• Excuse me – Lough Samaht
• Goodbye – Ma’asallama 

Generally, people plan their travels at their convenience. However, seasons and nature have different effects on different countries. The best time to visit Egypt is during the winter months.

However, that is not to say that you cannot visit Egypt during other times of the year. The months of March and April experience mild winter and are also a good time to travel to the land of the pharaohs. But before you pack your bags, make sure to get travel insurance as it can protect you financially from the loss of luggage or medical emergencies.