Summary
January is the heart of Egypt’s high season: cool, sunny days that are ideal for long hours at the temples, and the most comfortable month of the year for sightseeing in Upper Egypt. Average daytime highs are about 19°C (66°F) in Cairo, 23°C (73°F) in Luxor and Aswan, and 22°C (72°F) on the Red Sea, where the water is around 22°C.
Is January a Good Time to Visit Egypt?

Yes, January is one of the best months to visit Egypt for sightseeing. The trade-off is that it is also one of the busiest and most expensive, especially in the first week, when the Christmas and New Year holidays run on.
January is peak season. For the full picture across the year, see the best time to visit Egypt.
Egypt Weather in January
- Cairo and Giza: about 19°C (66°F) by day.
- Luxor and Aswan: about 23°C (73°F) by day.
- Hurghada and the Red Sea: about 22°C (72°F), with the sea at around 22°C.
Nights are the coldest of the year: around 9–10°C in Cairo and 6°C in the desert around Luxor and Aswan. Rain is rare; these are rounded averages, and individual days can be warmer or cooler.
What's On in Egypt in January
- 1 January: New Year’s Day, with hotels and cruise ships still in festive mode.
- 7 January: Coptic Christmas, a national holiday, with midnight mass in Coptic Cairo on the eve.
8-Day Cairo, Siwa and White & Black Desert Adventure
Planning the trip itself? Start here.
View This TripBest Trips in January
- A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, at its most comfortable this month.
- A sunrise hot air balloon over Luxor, with the clearest winter skies.
- Giza Pyramids tours with Saqqara on the same day, while the heat is low.
Prefer your own dates and pace? Ask us for a tailor-made trip.
What to Pack for Egypt in January
Pack layers: a warm jacket for evenings and early balloon flights, light clothes for the day, and a hat for the sun. See our winter packing list.
Travelling at another time? Read about Egypt in December or Egypt in February.
Egypt in January: FAQ
Is January a good time to visit Egypt?
Yes. The weather is mild and dry everywhere, making it one of the best months for sightseeing, but it is also peak season, so book cruises and hotels early.
How cold is Egypt in January?
Days reach about 19°C in Cairo and 23°C in Luxor and Aswan; nights fall to around 9–10°C in Cairo and 6°C in the desert.
Can you swim in the Red Sea in January?
Many people do: the sea is around 22°C. Heated pools are common at Red Sea resorts for anyone who finds it fresh.































