Dates to Avoid When Planning an Egypt Tour

The right travel date could make your trip more enjoyable and it is not easy to figure out that date when planning your trip with little experience. You may find the area is full of people (such as during the high season) or that most shops and attractions are closed (such as during Ramadan) if you pick the wrong date. Below, we have provided you with more information about the dates that may affect your tour experience.

1. The High Season

Being well-known as the high season, the Christmas, New Year, and Easter periods are the busiest times in Egypt and the country is full of foreign travelers. High demand makes the prices skyrocket so you pay a lot but still have to share the limited space in each attraction with the crowds, which is far from perfect.

If you do want to take your trip during the high season, please make your reservation earlier to guarantee the reservation and get a better rate.

2. Summer

The summer in Egypt begins in May and ends in October and the unbearable heat normally falls in August. Traveling during these periods can be challenging as you may have to stay in your hotel room with the air-conditioning on, unable to visit any open-air attractions when the sun is in the sky.

If you depart earlier, you may have the chance to enjoy the entire attraction on your own!

Drink plenty of water and wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen if your Egypt vacation starts in summer.

3. The Khamsin

The khamsin is a kind of hot, dusty, and dry wind (with temperatures reaching 40°C/104°F) in North Africa, which usually occurs from March to June, moving from western Egypt (where the Sahara Desert is located) to the east. The name itself means 'fifty' in Arabic, simply indicating that the wind could last for 50 days a year. Be prepared for it if you have to go there from March to June.

4. Ramadan

Ramadan can be considered to be the greatest holy month for fasting in Muslim countries. According to the Islamic calendar, Ramadan in 2020 will start on the evening of April 23rd after sunset and last for 30 days (to May 23rd). During these days, Muslims do not eat, drink, or even smoke in the daytime and only have one meal after sunset, with their next one being in the morning before sunrise. To be clear, you can find hardly any alcohol or food during the daytime in some areas. Some of the shops, restaurants, and even attractions will shorten their opening times (for example, one to two hours earlier than usual) and some of them won't open for business at all.

The end of Ramadan (the Festival of Breaking the Fast) is a highlight if you are there to experience it. People wear their best clothes and celebrate — it also breaks the peace experienced during the month of Ramadan.

As foreigners, travelers are not required to fast during Ramadan but there may be a few inconveniences as mentioned above. Try not to invite local people to eat or drink during the days and do not eat or drink in front of them if you feel embarrassed. It also helps to check the opening hours for the attractions on your list in advance.

5. Other Dates That You Should Be Aware Of

For travelers who enjoy the local culture, it is always a good time to travel during the local festivals and holidays as they are special, authentic, and unique. But for those who want a completely convenient and comfortable trip, traveling on normal days will be much more enjoyable.

Summary of the Local Festivals and Holidays

HOLIDAY/FESTIVAL	TYPE	DATE	ATTRACTIONS	TRANSPORTATION	TRAVEL PRICE
Revolution of 25 January	National	January 25th, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
Sham El Nessim — Easter	Coptic	April 20th, 2020	Crowded	Crowded	Very high
Sinai Liberation Day	National	April 25th, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
Labor Day	National	May 1st, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
End of Ramadan	Islamic	May 23rd, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
Eid al-Fitr	Islamic	May 24th, 25th, 26th, 2020	Crowded	Overcapacity	High
June 30 Revolution	National	June 30th, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
Revolution Day	National	July 23rd, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
Day of Arafat	Islamic	July 30th, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
Eid al-Adha	Islamic	July 31st, August 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 2020	Crowded	Crowded	Normal
Islamic New Year	Islamic	August 20th, 2020	Crowded	Crowded	Normal
Armed Forces Day	National	October 6th, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
Mawlid al-Nabi al-Sharif	Islamic	October 29th, 2020	OK	OK	Normal
Coptic Christmas	Coptic	January 7th, 2021	Crowded	Crowded	Very high

Whenever You Visit, You're Better Off Traveling with Us

We offer inspiration and personal suggestions based on our experience and customers' feedback. Contact us if you would like to have a worry-free journey!

Why Travel with Global Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)

Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.

Flexible Private Tour