By the Misk Tours Team | Egypt-based travel specialists | Last verified: April 2026
📍 Is November a good time to visit Egypt?
Yes — November is one of the best months to visit Egypt. Expect warm weather (20–28°C), fewer crowds than peak winter, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.
- 🌤️ Weather: Warm days, cool nights
- 👥 Crowds: Moderate (shoulder season)
- 💰 Prices: Better than peak winter months
- 📍 Best for: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Nile cruises, Red Sea
🛂 Bottom line:
November offers the perfect balance of weather, crowd levels, and value.
There’s a specific time each year when I believe Egypt in November becomes a flawless, quintessential tourist destination. Egypt’s peak tourist season typically runs from mid-December to February, making November a strategically crucial month: the summer heat is completely over, there’s almost no rain, and the December holiday crowds haven’t yet arrived. In my experience, the result is a warm, dry, and sunny month across most of the country, from the Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor and the coral reefs of the Red Sea.
Understanding Egypt November weather goes beyond simply reading the temperature. Egypt stretches over 1,000 kilometers from the Mediterranean coast in the north to the Sudanese border in the south, and I’ve found that the climatic variations between these two extremes are significant enough to influence what you pack, where you go, and how you plan each day. In this guide, I’ll give you the complete, data-driven picture—region by region, traveler by type—so you can arrive prepared and make the most of every hour.
November Weather Data — All Regions
Climate varies dramatically between destinations — enough to change your packing list and daily schedule. All figures below are long-term monthly averages.
| Destination | Avg High | Avg Low | Sea Temp | Rain (mm) | Rain Days | Sun (hrs/day) | UV Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cairo | 24.8°C | 14.1°C | — | 4mm | ~1.5 | 8.3 | 5 (moderate) |
| Giza | 25.4°C | 15.8°C | — | 4mm | — | 8.3 | 5 |
| Luxor | 28.9°C | 11.6°C | — | 0mm | 0 | 9+ | 5 |
| Aswan | 32°C | 16°C | — | 0mm | 0 | 9+ | 5–6 |
| Hurghada | 26.8°C | 16.6°C | 25.5°C | 2mm | 0.2 | 8.8 | 6 (high) |
| Sharm El-Sheikh | 27°C | 18.9°C | 25.8°C | 3mm | 0.4 | 9.0 | 6 |
| Alexandria | 24.1°C | 14.3°C | 22.4°C | 32mm | 5.4 | 8.0 | 4–5 |
Key Insight
The biggest climate surprise for first-time November visitors is the UV index. Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea all sit at UV 5–6 — technically “moderate to high” — even though the air temperature feels comfortable. Sunburn can occur within 30–40 minutes of direct exposure without SPF protection. Always wear sunscreen, regardless of how mild the day feels.
Regional Weather Breakdown
Cairo & Giza
When I think about the weather in Cairo, Egypt, in November, the word that comes to mind is balanced. The average high temperature in November in Cairo is 24.8°C, and the average low temperature is 14.1°C, with an average of 8.3 hours of sunshine per day. For anyone spending their days at the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, or wandering the alleyways of Islamic Cairo, these figures translate to genuinely comfortable sightseeing conditions. Mornings are crisp and energising; afternoons warm but never intense; evenings require a light jacket, especially if you’re planning a rooftop dinner or an evening felucca ride on the Nile.

In Giza specifically, average high temperatures in November reach 25.4°C and lows drop to 15.8°C, with November being the calmest month of the year in terms of wind speed, averaging just 12.1 km/h. That calm air quality makes early-morning visits to the Pyramids — before the tour groups arrive — a particularly rewarding experience in my view.
🌅Cairo Tip
Arrive at 8am SharpThe Pyramid plateau opens at 8am. In November, tour buses typically arrive between 9–10am.
Your first hour on site will feel almost private — golden light, calm air, and a quiet that’s impossible to find later in the day. Book tickets online the night before to skip the gate queue.
One data point worth flagging: Cairo’s average daily maximum UV index in November is 5, which is classified as a moderate health risk. November sunshine feels deceptively mild — but three to four hours of direct exposure at an open-air site like the Pyramids or the Citadel can cause unexpected sunburn. Apply SPF 50 before leaving your hotel and reapply at midday.
🏺 Luxor in November
Of all Egyptian destinations in November, Luxor is the one most strongly recommended by experienced Egypt travellers — and the data explains why. The average high temperature reaches 28.9°C while the average low drops to 11.6°C. There is absolutely zero rain in November, relative humidity sits at just 51%, and there are more than 9 hours of clear sunshine per day.
This combination — no rain, low humidity, warm but manageable daytime heat — makes Luxor the most weather-stable destination in Egypt in November. You can comfortably spend five to six hours walking the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple without any heat exhaustion risk. That simply is not possible in the summer months, when midday temperatures regularly reach 38–42°C.
November also sees slightly lower visitor numbers than December. Egypt recorded 1.43 million international arrivals in November 2024 compared to 1.53 million in December — meaning shorter queues at the Valley of the Kings, more space at Karnak, and a more immersive atmosphere at every heritage site.
🎟️ Valley of the Kings Tip
The standard ticket covers three tombs in Valley of the Kings . Pay the extra fee to enter Tutankhamun’s tomb and Seti I’s tomb — they are not included but are the two most extraordinary interiors on the West Bank. Book a sunrise balloon ride separately if visiting Luxor: November mornings offer the best balloon conditions of the year.
⛵ Aswan in November
Aswan is Egypt’s warmest city in November, with average highs around 32°C and virtually zero rainfall. It is also the most serene — the Nile here is wider, slower, and edged with date palms and Nubian villages that feel entirely removed from the noise of Cairo.
November is the prime month for Nile cruising between Aswan and Luxor: warm days, cool evenings perfect for open-deck dining, and all major temple stops — Philae, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Karnak — accessible in the midday heat without any physical discomfort. Aswan is also the gateway to Abu Simbel, a 280-km drive south to one of ancient Egypt’s most dramatic monuments.
Abu Simbel is best combined with an overnight stay or an early-morning flight from Aswan. The temples face east for precise astronomical alignment: the sunrise phenomenon (when sunlight penetrates 65 metres into the Great Temple to illuminate the inner sanctuary) occurs twice a year on 22 February and 22 October — but November visitors will still see one of ancient Egypt’s most breathtaking architectural achievements in ideal cool-morning conditions.
🤿 Hurghada & the Red Sea in November
In my opinion, Hurghada’s climate in November is among the most stable in the Mediterranean and Red Sea region. Temperatures in Hurghada range from a high of 26.8°C to a low of 16.6°C, while the average water temperature is 25.5°C, an ideal range for swimming, diving, and extended periods of water activities. Rainfall is minimal, occurring only 0.2 days a month, with an average of less than 2 mm.
Sunshine in Hurghada during November averages 8.8 hours per day, with a maximum UV index of 6 daily, a level considered high-risk for health. This fact often surprises visitors, and I experienced it firsthand: while the air temperature may seem cool enough to overlook sunscreen, a UV index of 6 on the beach or a diving boat can cause sunburn within 30-40 minutes of direct sun exposure. I always make sure to carry sunscreen with SPF 50 when I go to the Red Sea, without exception.
I’ve also noticed that underwater visibility in the Red Sea improves significantly in November. During the summer months, the surface water temperature rises, which can reduce visibility, but by November, conditions stabilize, currents subside, and the coral reefs around Hurghada become some of the best diving spots of the year.
🐠 Red Sea Diving Tip
First-time divers: book a PADI Open Water course in Hurghada — November conditions make it one of the best learning environments in the world.
Experienced divers: consider a 3–4 night liveaboard into the outer reefs (Brother Islands or Daedalus Reef) — November’s visibility and stable currents make these some of the finest drift dive conditions available anywhere in the world.
🏖 Sharm El-Sheikh & Sinai in November
In Sharm El-Sheikh, the average high temperature in November is 27°C, and the average low is 18.9°C. The average seawater temperature is 25.8°C, and November is technically the month with the most rainfall in Sharm El-Sheikh — though this amounts to only 3mm across 0.4 rainy days.
In practical terms, every November visit I’m aware of to Sharm has been almost entirely sunny. There are approximately 270 hours of bright sunshine during an average November, equating to 9 hours of sunshine per day. The low humidity (46%) makes the warmth feel comfortable rather than oppressive, and the calm wind conditions mean boat trips, snorkelling excursions, and open-water dives all operate smoothly.
If I were planning to combine a Sharm stay with a trip to Mount Sinai, I’d pack a windproof layer and warm base layers regardless of how mild the conditions felt at sea level. A November night on the summit at 2,285 metres is genuinely cold — this is one packing decision I’d never leave to chance.
⛰️Mount Sinai Tip
Depart by 2am from St. Catherine’s for the pre-dawn summit. Pack: thermal base layer, fleece, windproof outer, warm hat and gloves, a torch (headlamp preferred), and trekking poles. Camel rides cover the first 3/4 of the route — use one for the ascent if knees are a concern, then walk the final Steps of Repentance. Bring cash for the camel operator and for the small café near the summit, which sells tea at around 4am.
📚 Alexandria in November
Alexandria is the statistical outlier in any discussion of Egypt November weather. The city sits on the Mediterranean coast and behaves like a different country climactically: November is actually Alexandria’s warmest autumn month, with temperatures between 14.3°C and 24.1°C, but it also receives 32mm of rain across approximately 5.4 days, and relative humidity reaches 68% — figures that would be unremarkable in southern Europe but stand out sharply against the rest of Egypt’s near-zero rainfall.
The practical reality is more reassuring than the statistics suggest: the rain arrives in brief Mediterranean showers, not sustained downpours. There are still 8 hours of sunshine per day (71% of available daylight). The city’s world-class indoor attractions — the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Greco-Roman Museum, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, and the National Museum of Alexandria — make it easy to take shelter during any brief rainfall without losing a significant portion of your day.
🎯 Best Things to Do in Egypt in November
November’s comfortable temperatures and clear skies unlock the full range of Egypt’s experiences. These are the activities most worth prioritising this month — with practical tips for each.
🎈 Hot Air Balloon Over Luxor
Floating above the West Bank of Luxor at sunrise is, in my opinion, one of the most breathtaking experiences Egypt has to offer — and November is the ideal month to do it. With cool morning air, minimal wind, and clear skies, hot-air balloon conditions are at their seasonal best. You’ll drift over the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the green ribbon of the Nile as the sun rises over the East Bank. Flights typically last 45 to 60 minutes and depart just before dawn.
🤿 Snorkelling & Diving in Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada
The Red Sea in November is a diver’s sweet spot: water temperatures hover around 25–26°C, visibility improves significantly compared to the summer months, and surface currents calm down. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeller exploring the shallow reefs of Sharm’s Ras Mohammed National Park or an experienced diver descending the walls of the Blue Hole in Dahab, November conditions are genuinely exceptional. The absence of summer crowds on dive boats adds to the experience.
💡Gear Tip
Bring reef-safe sunscreen (chemical sunscreens damage coral ecosystems). A long-sleeve rash guard protects against both UV and minor jellyfish contact.
Arrive at the dive centre 30 minutes before departure — November morning departures fill fast, and latecomers sometimes find their spot given to walk-ins.
🐪 Desert Safari — White Desert & Sinai
November marks the opening of Egypt’s prime desert season. Daytime temperatures in the Western Desert drop to a comfortable 20–24°C, making camel rides, sandboarding, and overnight camping in the White Desert not only possible but genuinely enjoyable. Watching the chalk-white rock formations of the White Desert glow under a full moon is one of those experiences that stays with you. For Sinai, the cooler temperatures also make the hike up Mount Sinai — 3,750 steps to the summit — far more manageable than during the summer.
💡 Camping Tip
Desert nights in November drop to 8–12°C. Bring a sleeping bag rated to 5°C. Most reputable desert operators provide thick blankets, but adding your own sleeping bag liner significantly improves comfort. A star-gazing session at 2–3am in the White Desert, with no light pollution for 200+ km, is one of Egypt’s most underrated experiences.
🎬 Cairo International Film Festival (Mid-November)
The Cairo International Film Festival, held annually in mid-to-late November, is the oldest film festival in Africa and the Arab world, and the only one on the continent to hold Category A classification. Screenings take place at the Cairo Opera House and several downtown theatres, and the festival draws filmmakers and audiences from across the region. For cultural travellers, it adds a compelling contemporary dimension to what is usually a history-focused Cairo itinerary — and the atmosphere around the Opera House during the festival week is electric.
⛵ Felucca Ride on the Nile
A felucca — a traditional wooden sailing boat — is one of the most relaxed ways to experience the Nile, and November evenings make it especially memorable. In Aswan in particular, the stretch of the Nile around Elephantine Island is calm and scenic, and the cooler temperatures mean you can stay out on the water as the sun sets without any discomfort. Short one-hour rides are easy to arrange locally; multi-day felucca journeys between Aswan and Edfu are also a wonderful option for slower travellers who want to experience the river’s rhythm firsthand.
💡 Negotiation Tip
Price per boat (not per person), per hour. A sunset felucca for 2–4 people in Aswan should cost EGP 200–350 per hour including the captain.
Agree on the price before boarding and confirm it includes return to your starting point. Bring a light jacket — the breeze on the water after sunset is noticeably cooler than on land in November.
🏜️ Nile Cruise — Luxor to Aswan
November is peak season for Nile cruising, and for good reason. Daytime temperatures along the river are warm but never excessive, evenings are cool enough for open-air dining on deck, and the key temple stops — Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae — are all comfortably walkable in the midday heat that this month brings. I’d recommend booking 6–8 weeks in advance, as the best boats fill up quickly once mid-November approaches and the winter season begins in earnest.
👥 Is November Right for Your Trip?

🏛️ History & Culture Tourists — My Strongest Recommendation
In my view, November is statistically the best month for Egyptology-focused tourism. Daytime temperatures across the key heritage sites range from 25°C to 32°C — warm enough to be comfortable, cool enough to spend five or six hours on-site without heat exhaustion. November recorded 1.43 million visitors to Egypt in 2024, which is lower than December’s 1.53 million — meaning I consistently find shorter queues and more space at the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings, and Karnak compared to the high-season months.
🤿 Beach & Diving Tourists — Highly Recommended
With Red Sea water temperatures at 25–26°C and virtually zero rain probability along the coast, I find November delivers beach and diving conditions that rival October while offering better value than December. Visibility underwater is excellent, currents are stable, and the daytime air temperature is warm enough for comfortable beach time without the punishing summer heat I’ve experienced in July and August.
💑 Honeymooners — A Value Window I’d Jump On
Hotel rates in November are typically 15–25% lower than December–February peak season prices. Luxury resorts and boutique Nile cruise boats that are fully booked from mid-December onwards still have strong availability in November — and in my research, the savings are meaningful enough to significantly upgrade the quality of accommodation for the same budget.
👨👩👧 Families — Well-Suited with a Few Notes
The temperature range across Egypt in November — roughly 14°C to 32°C depending on destination — is manageable for children of all ages. I’ve seen no extreme heat risks for outdoor sightseeing in November, no significant rain disruptions outside Alexandria, and the slightly lower crowd levels compared to December mean less time queuing at major sites. My only practical note for families: pack light layers for children for Cairo evenings, which can feel surprisingly cool after sunset.
💰 Budget Travellers — Book in the First Two Weeks
Egypt’s winter peak season typically begins in mid-November through February, when hotels in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and along the Nile are at their highest prices. Based on my research, early November — the first two weeks — still carries shoulder-season pricing on flights and hotels. Late November sees noticeable price increases at popular properties. If budget is a priority, I’d target arrivals in the first ten days of November and book accommodation at least 6–8 weeks in advance.
📅 November Events Worth Planning Around
🎬 Cairo International Film Festival (Mid-to-Late November)
The Cairo International Film Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the Arab world and Africa, and the only festival in the region to hold Category A classification from the international federation that governs film producers globally. The 2025 edition ran from November 12 to 21, with screenings held at the Cairo Opera House and several downtown theatres. I always recommend that cultural tourists factor this event into their Cairo timing — it adds a compelling contemporary dimension to what is typically a history-focused itinerary, and the atmosphere around the Opera House during the festival is genuinely electric.
🚢 Nile Cruise Peak Season Opens
November is when I believe the Nile cruise experience reaches its annual best. With mild and pleasant weather, temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 28°C, and cooler evenings perfect for enjoying sunset views along the Nile, November offers an ideal blend of comfort and tranquillity for Nile exploration, with fewer tourists than the December–February peak. I’ve found most cruise itineraries on the Luxor–Aswan route still have availability with 4–6 weeks’ notice in November — a window that closes fast once December arrives.
🕌 Islamic Calendar Considerations
I always check the Islamic calendar when planning travel to Egypt in any month. The calendar shifts approximately 11 days earlier each Gregorian year, and major Islamic holidays can affect site opening hours and the operating patterns of local restaurants and services. It is worth confirming before you book whether any significant dates fall within your specific November travel window for 2025 or 2026.

💡 Practical Note
Most major tourist sites (Pyramids, Valley of the Kings, temples) operate on standard hours regardless of Islamic holidays. It is primarily local restaurants, bazaars, and transport schedules that may be affected. Your tour operator or hotel concierge can confirm the relevant dates for your specific travel window.
November vs. October vs. December — My Honest Comparison
Understanding how November compares to its neighbouring months helps confirm the booking decision. This is the honest breakdown.
| Factor | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cairo avg. high | 29°C | 25°C | 20°C |
| Luxor avg. high | 35°C | 29°C | 23°C |
| Red Sea sea temp | 27–28°C | 25–26°C | 23–24°C |
| Rain risk (Cairo) | Very low | Very low | Low-moderate |
| Crowd level | Low | Moderate | High |
| Hotel prices | Shoulder | Shoulder-rising | Peak |
| Nile cruise value | High | High | Lower |
| Abu Simbel festival | Oct 22 ✅ | — | — |
| Cairo Film Festival | — | Nov 12–21 ✅ | — |
My Honest Verdict:
October has lower crowds and a warmer Red Sea, but Luxor’s 35°C average high makes afternoon temple visits genuinely punishing. December is only worth considering if the festive atmosphere justifies peak-season prices — for most tourists, it doesn’t.
November threads the needle between the two: comfortable temperatures, manageable crowds, and shoulder-season value. For the widest range of tourist profiles, it is simply the best month to visit Egypt.
📅Optimal Booking Window
Target arrival November 1–14 for the best combination of shoulder-season pricing and ideal conditions. The first week of November is often the quietest and best-value week of Egypt’s entire tourist calendar — lower than October crowds, lower prices than late November, and the best weather of the autumn. If your dates are flexible, this is the window to target.
What to Pack — Based on Where You’re Going
The biggest packing mistake for Egypt in November is treating the country as a single climate. It isn’t. Here is the breakdown by destination
🏛️ Cairo & Giza
- Light daytime clothes (T-shirt, light trousers)
- Medium jacket/fleece for evenings (drops to 14°C)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- SPF 50 sunscreen + hat
- Scarf for Islamic sites
- Daypack with water bottle
🏺 Luxor & Aswan
- Light layers for warm 29–32°C days
- A fleece for Luxor evenings (11–12°C)
- Very comfortable walking shoes/boots
- SPF 50 + sunglasses (UV-rated)
- Wide-brim hat for open-air sites
- Small day bag + 2L water per person
🤿 Red Sea (Hurghada/Sharm)
- Swimwear + beach wear
- Rash guard (UV + jellyfish protection)
- Reef-safe SPF 50 sunscreen
- Light cardigan for evenings (17–19°C)
- Sandals + light trainers
- Underwater camera/GoPro
⛰️ Sinai / Mount Sinai
- Thermal base layer
- Fleece mid-layer
- Windproof outer jacket
- Warm hat + gloves (0–5°C summit)
- Headlamp + spare batteries
- Trekking poles
📚 Alexandria
- Light-medium layers (14–24°C)
- Light waterproof jacket or compact umbrella
- Comfortable walking shoes (may get wet)
- SPF 30–50 sunscreen
- Scarf for mosques
🐪 Desert Safari
- Light daytime clothes (20–24°C)
- Sleeping bag (rated to 5°C)
- Warm hat for cold desert nights
- Headlamp + power bank
- Dust/sand scarf or buff
- Cash (no ATMs in the desert)
💡 Essential Tourist Tips for Egypt in November
☀️Never Skip Sunscreen — Anywhere in Egypt
The UV index across Egypt in November ranges from 4 (Alexandria) to 6 (Red Sea). Even UV index 4 can cause sunburn in 40–60 minutes of direct exposure. Apply SPF 50 before leaving your hotel every morning and reapply at midday. This is the tip most ignored by first-time visitors, and the one most regretted.
💧Drink More Water Than You Think You Need
The dry desert air of Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan, the Western Desert) causes faster moisture loss than you realise — significantly faster than coastal or urban environments. Carry at least 1.5 litres per person per day when visiting open-air historical sites. The earliest sign of dehydration is a headache, which many travellers attribute to heat rather than its actual cause.
👗Dress Modestly at All Religious and Heritage Sites
Shoulders and knees must be covered at all temples, mosques, and religious complexes — regardless of the outdoor temperature. This applies to both men and women. Carry a lightweight scarf or sarong as a versatile cover-up. Modesty is not merely a formality in Egypt; it is a sign of respect that significantly improves how local guides, vendors, and residents interact with you.
📅Book Early, Especially for Nile Cruises and Balloons
November is peak Nile cruise season. The best 5-star cruise boats and luxury dahabeyas begin filling from early October for November departures. Hot-air balloon slots in Luxor are also limited — CAPA-certified operators cap daily passenger numbers for safety. Book both at least 4–6 weeks in advance. For flights within Egypt, 6–8 weeks is the ideal window before prices rise.
💵Carry Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for Day-to-Day Expenses
Most major hotels, tour operators, and restaurants accept credit cards, but local markets (Khan el-Khalili in Cairo, Luxor bazaar, Aswan spice market), felucca operators, camel rides, tipping, and small street food vendors are cash-only. ATMs are widely available in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, and Sharm but are less reliable in smaller towns. Withdraw cash at the airport on arrival for the best rates.
📸Photography at Heritage Sites — Know the Rules
Photography is permitted at most outdoor sites and museum interiors, but individual tomb chambers in the Valley of the Kings have strict no-photography rules (enforced by guards). A camera permit fee is sometimes charged at the Pyramids site. Drone use requires advance permission from Egypt’s Civil Aviation Authority and is not permitted at most heritage sites without a licence. Check with your guide before setting up any equipment.
🚖Use Metered Taxis or Apps in Cairo
Uber and Careem operate in Cairo and are far more reliable and fairly priced than negotiating with street taxis. In Luxor and Aswan, your hotel or tour operator can arrange fixed-price transport for day trips. Agree on all prices before getting in any vehicle, and confirm whether the price is per person or per car.
🗣️Learn 5–6 Arabic Phrases
Egyptian Arabic is warm and expressive, and even a modest effort to use a few words opens remarkable hospitality. Useful phrases: Shukran (thank you), Laa shukran (no thank you — essential for vendor interactions), Bikam? (how much?), Tayib (OK / good), Sabah el-kheer (good morning), Ma’a salama (goodbye). Egyptians respond with genuine warmth to any attempt to speak their language.
🕌Check Islamic Calendar Dates Before Your Trip
Islamic holidays shift approximately 11 days earlier each Gregorian year. Major observances can affect site opening hours, restaurant operations, and transport schedules. Your tour operator or hotel concierge can confirm whether any significant dates fall within your specific November window — and advise on any practical adjustments needed.
🌡️Plan Sightseeing Around the Temperature Curve
Even in mild November, the most efficient and comfortable structure for every day is: heavy sightseeing 7–11am, a midday break at your hotel or a shaded restaurant 12–3pm, and lighter sightseeing or relaxation 4–6pm. This rhythm works perfectly in November — you’ll see more, walk further, and arrive at dinner without exhaustion.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is it too hot in Egypt in November?
In my experience, no. Daytime temperatures range from 24°C in Cairo to 32°C in Aswan — warm and sunny, but nothing close to the intense 38–42°C heat of July and August. The UV index of 5–6 across most of the country means sun protection remains essential, even when the air temperature feels mild.
Can you swim in Egypt in November?
Yes — particularly on the Red Sea coast. The average water temperature in Hurghada in November is 25.5°C, which I consider fully comfortable for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. Alexandria’s Mediterranean sea temperature of 22.4°C is cooler and better suited for a brief refreshing swim than extended sessions.
Does it rain in Egypt in November?
Rarely, outside Alexandria. Cairo records just 4mm of rain across roughly 1.5 days in the entire month. Luxor and Aswan record zero. The Red Sea coast averages only 2–3mm. Only Alexandria sees meaningful rainfall — 32mm across 5.4 days — which is why it’s the one destination where I always pack a rain jacket.
Is November peak season in Egypt?
It’s the start of the transition into peak season, not peak season itself. Egypt’s winter peak season runs from mid-November through February, which means the first half of November still carries shoulder-season characteristics in terms of pricing and crowd levels — a window I’d take advantage of.
What should I wear in Egypt at night in November?
I always bring a light-to-medium jacket for Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor, where evening temperatures drop to 12–16°C. On the Red Sea coast, evenings are milder at 17–19°C — a sweatshirt or light cardigan is usually enough.
How much does a trip to Egypt cost in November?
Hotel rates in November run approximately 15–25% lower than December–February peak season prices, making it one of the best-value months in the Egyptian tourist calendar. Based on my research, mid-range travellers can expect to spend $80–$150 per day, including accommodation, food, and site entry fees. Budget travellers can manage on $40–$60 per day in Cairo.
Is the weather suitable for first-time visitors?
I’d say November is actually the ideal entry point for first-time Egypt visitors. The combination of dry conditions, comfortable temperatures, manageable UV levels, and pre-peak crowds creates an environment where first-timers can focus on absorbing Egypt’s extraordinary historical sites without the logistical complications of extreme heat or overcrowded monuments.
Conclusion: November — Egypt’s Data-Validated Sweet Spot
After all my research and experience, I always come back to the same conclusion: November isn’t just a good time to visit Egypt; for most tourists, it’s the absolute best time.
The data confirms this by all measures: 8 to 9 hours of sunshine daily across most of the country, almost no rainfall outside of Alexandria, and Red Sea temperatures ranging between 25 and 26 degrees Celsius, making daytime walks in the fresh air incredibly comfortable. Add to that its strategic location between the lingering warmth of October and the peak tourist season of December, and it’s hard to argue against this claim.
Considering the weather, crowds, and budget, November stands out as the best and most balanced time on the Egyptian travel calendar, and in my opinion, it surpasses all other months due to the wide variety of travelers it caters to.
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