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Planning Ahead
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When to Go
The winter months, November through March, are considered the best time to visit Egypt, when temperatures in Cairo and at the archaeological sites in Upper Egypt are most comfortable. Hotel rooms can be scarce at this time, so make advance reservations. In winter, Alexandria and parts of the Nile delta experience cold and blustery weather, so spring and fall are the best times to visit these sights in northern Egypt.
June through August is very hot everywhere in Egypt, especially in Upper Egypt around Luxor and Aswan. Visitors should limit sightseeing hours to early morning and evening.
For more information about weather conditions, see the Climate section at the end of Geography.
What to Take
Travelers should be prepared for temperature extremes in all seasons. Even in winter the sun is warm and the rays very direct, especially in southern Egypt. Bring strong sunscreen (not always easily found in Egypt), sunglasses, a hat, and a water bottle. For women, a long scarf is effective against gusty winds and handy for draping your head or arms when visiting Islamic holy places. Even in summer, nighttime desert temperatures are cool enough to require a sweater. In winter, the desert cold is intense, so bring adequate warm clothing. You'll probably do a lot of walking, much of it along rocky paths or in sand. Be sure to bring strong shoes—sandals aren't a good choice for lengthy walks.
Conservative Muslims will probably be offended by revealing clothing. The Appropriate Clothing section of People has more information about what to wear.
Most toiletries and pharmaceuticals are readily available in Egypt, but bring your own contact lens solution, tampons or sanitary pads, and contraceptives. Carry a roll of toilet paper with you. Both men and women should bring a supply of heavy-duty skin cream and hair conditioner. Anyone sensitive to dust might consider a package of disposable face masks for the tombs. If you use artificial sweetener, bring it. Bring extra batteries, too.
Photographers should bring extra rolls of high-speed film and an extra camera battery. These may not be easily found outside urban areas. A pair of binoculars is handy for Nile cruises and for examining details of ruins. A flashlight can be useful for exploring tombs and dimly lit grottos, and a collapsible drinking cup and pocket knife are also handy.
Students should consider buying an International Student Identity Card before traveling to Egypt. Students with a valid card will receive discounts of up to 50 percent on admission to most sites and museums and discounts on some forms of transportation.
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