Hurghada is lucky to have sunshine almost all year round. But a mild January and a scorching August are two very different holidays. To find the best time to visit Hurghada, think about what you are coming for: the beach, diving, the temples of Luxor or the desert. Here is the weather month by month, our honest opinion and the excursions that suit each season best.
When is the best time to go to Hurghada?
For most travellers, the best months are April-May and October-November. It is warm without being too hot, the sea is pleasant and every excursion runs in good conditions. Winter (December to February) is perfect for visiting Luxor and Cairo, but the water is cooler and the wind stronger. Summer (June to September) is ideal for the sea, as long as you cope well with the heat.
Hurghada weather month by month
| Month | Air (average high) | Sea | Our view |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | about 22 °C | about 22 °C | Mild days, cool evenings. Ideal for Luxor and Cairo. |
| February | about 23 °C | about 21 °C | The coolest month for the sea. Perfect for sightseeing. |
| March | about 25 °C | about 22 °C | Pleasant, longer days. Sometimes windy. |
| April | about 29 °C | about 23 °C | An excellent balance of beach and excursions. |
| May | about 33 °C | about 25 °C | Hot and sunny, the sea warms up. A very good month. |
| June | about 35 °C | about 26 °C | Start of the hot season. Beautiful sea. |
| July | about 36 °C | about 27 °C | Very hot. Sea activities in the morning, rest in the afternoon. |
| August | about 36 °C | about 28 °C | The hottest month. Ideal for swimming and diving. |
| September | about 34 °C | about 28 °C | The sea is at its warmest, still very hot. |
| October | about 31 °C | about 27 °C | One of our favourite months: warm sea, softer air. |
| November | about 27 °C | about 25 °C | Very pleasant for everything, sea and desert. |
| December | about 23 °C | about 23 °C | Mild and calm. Bring a jumper for the evenings. |
These figures are rough averages: from one year to the next, and even from one week to the next, real temperatures can vary by a few degrees. Rain is very rare all year round.
Which excursions to do in each season?
Luxor: best from October to April
Luxor is much hotter than the coast, especially in summer. From October to April, visiting the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple is far more comfortable. In high summer we recommend a private car, which lets you leave early and adapt the pace to the heat. See the Luxor trip by minibus or the Luxor trip by private car, and read our Luxor day trip guide.
Hot air balloon in Luxor: magical in the cool season
The flight takes off at sunrise over the west bank of the Nile. The cool mornings of winter and spring often bring very clear skies. Bring a light jacket: it is chilly at dawn. See the Luxor hot air balloon trip.
Cairo and the Pyramids: all year round
The pyramids can be visited in any season. Winter is the most pleasant for walking on the Giza plateau; in summer, good sun protection and plenty of water are enough. See the Cairo trip by minibus or read our Cairo day trip guide.
Dolphins: June to the end of November
This is when the sea is warmest and usually calmest, which makes the trip more pleasant and swimming near the dolphins more comfortable. Everything you need to know is in our guide to dolphin trips in Hurghada.
Islands and snorkeling: mainly April to November
Boat trips to the islands run all year, but snorkeling becomes a real pleasure once the water is above 24-25 °C. In winter a light wetsuit can be welcome. To pick your day at sea, read our comparison of the Hurghada islands and our Orange Bay guide.
Desert at sunset: great in summer and winter
Leaving late in the day avoids the summer heat and gives you the best light. In winter, the evening in the desert can be chilly: bring a jumper. See the sunset quad safari or our desert safari guide.
What about the wind in Hurghada?
Hurghada is a windy town, which makes the heat easier to bear but can make the sea rough. On very windy days, the port authorities can stop boats from going out. If we cancel because of the weather, you choose a new date or get a full refund. That is a good reason not to keep your boat trip for the last day of your holiday.
Our tips by season
- In winter: bring a jumper or jacket for the evenings, early departures and the balloon flight.
- In summer: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and lots of water. Plan activities for the morning or late afternoon.
- For the sea: book your boat trips early in your stay to keep a spare day in case of wind.
- For Luxor and Cairo: avoid the day after another big day out, and plan a beach day afterwards to recover.
- School holidays: excursions are in higher demand, so book a few days ahead.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hottest month in Hurghada?
July and August are the hottest months, with average highs around 36 °C. The sea is then around 27-28 °C.
Can you swim in Hurghada in winter?
Yes. The sea averages around 21-23 °C from December to March. It is cooler than in summer, but many travellers swim without any problem, especially on calm, sunny days.
When is the best time to visit Luxor from Hurghada?
From October to April, when temperatures are milder. In summer the trip is still possible, ideally by private car with an early start.
What happens if my boat trip is cancelled because of the wind?
If we cancel for weather reasons, you get a full refund or choose another date. On your side, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the trip. To book or ask a question, message us on WhatsApp at +20 101 780 8340.
Picked your dates? Now discover the best things to do in Hurghada, with prices and local tips.
