Temperature in Egypt in May: Weather, Tips & Best Places
If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, understanding the temperature in Egypt in May is essential. May marks the transition from spring to summer, bringing hot days and warm evenings across the country. Whether you’re exploring ancient sites in Luxor, enjoying a Nile cruise weather in May, or relaxing on the beaches of Sharm El Sheikh, knowing what to expect will help you plan the perfect trip.
Egypt Weather in May: What to Expect?
Egypt has a desert climate with very little rainfall. The Egypt climate in spring is generally warm, and by May, temperatures begin rising significantly, especially in the south. However, coastal cities like Alexandria and Sharm El Sheikh experience milder conditions due to sea breezes.
The Egypt May weather forecast shows that days are usually hot, but the evenings remain comfortable. The average daily temperatures indicate that visitors should pack light and cool clothing. The average daily maximum is 35°C (95°F), while the average daily minimum is 24°C (75°F).
Average Temperature in Egypt in May
The average temperature in Egypt in May varies by region:
- Cairo temperature in May: 30-35°C (86-95°F) during the day; 18-22°C (64-72°F) at night
- Alexandria weather in May: 25-28°C (77-82°F) during the day; 17-20°C (63-68°F) at night
- Luxor weather in May: 38-42°C (100-108°F) during the day; 22-26°C (72-79°F) at night
- Aswan heat in May: 40-44°C (104-111°F) during the day; 24-28°C (75-82°F) at night
- Giza weather conditions in May: 32-36°C (90-97°F) during the day; 19-23°C (66-73°F) at night
- Hurghada sea temperature in May: 25-27°C (77-81°F), ideal for water activities
- Sharm El Sheikh weather in May: 30-34°C (86-93°F) during the day; 22-26°C (72-79°F) at night
For comparison, the temperature in Egypt in April is slightly cooler, while the temperature in Egypt in June becomes significantly hotter.
Warmest Cities in Egypt in May
If you’re looking for the hottest places in Egypt in May, here are the cities where you can expect the highest temperatures:
- Aswan – Frequently exceeds 40°C (104°F)
- Luxor – Often reaches 42°C (108°F)
- Giza – Can feel very hot, especially at midday
- Hurghada – Warm but comfortable due to sea breezes
- Sharm El Sheikh – Hot, but perfect for beach activities
Red Sea and Beach Destinations in May
Egypt is famous for its beautiful coastal cities. If you’re planning a beach holiday, here’s what you can expect:
- Red Sea temperature in May: The water remains warm at 25-27°C (77-81°F), making it ideal for diving and snorkeling.
- Weather in Egypt in May Hurghada: The city experiences hot days (30-34°C) but has pleasant evenings.
- Weather in Egypt in May Sharm El Sheikh: Similar to Hurghada, with warm days and cool sea breezes.
- Hurghada sea temperature in May: Perfect for swimming, scuba diving, and other water sports.
Egypt Holiday Weather in May: Best Travel Destinations
May is a fantastic time to visit Egypt, but your ideal destination depends on your tolerance for heat.
- For history lovers: Cairo, Giza, Luxor, and Aswan (visit early in the morning to avoid extreme heat)
- For beach lovers: Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and other Red Sea resorts
- For adventure seekers: The Western Desert and Sinai (prepare for high temperatures and dry conditions)
- For Nile cruises: Upper Egypt (Luxor and Aswan), but expect Egypt desert heat in May
Best Time to Visit Egypt
May is a good time to visit, but it’s not the most popular month due to rising temperatures. If you prefer cooler weather, consider traveling in:
- March: The weather in Egypt in March is mild and comfortable.
- April: Warmer than March, but still pleasant.
- September: The weather in Egypt in September is slightly cooler than summer but still warm.
What to Wear in Egypt in May
Packing the right clothing is crucial to stay comfortable in the heat. Here’s a quick guide on what to wear in Egypt in May:
Lightweight, breathable clothes (cotton or linen)
Loose-fitting long sleeves and pants for sun protection
A hat and sunglasses for UV protection
Sandals for beach areas, comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing
Modest clothing for religious sites (shoulders and knees covered)
High-SPF sunscreen to protect from strong sun exposure
Temperature in Egypt in May in Celsius vs. Fahrenheit
For those more familiar with Fahrenheit, here’s a quick conversion of the temperature in Egypt in May in Celsius:
- 25°C = 77°F
- 30°C = 86°F
- 35°C = 95°F
- 40°C = 104°F
- 45°C = 113°F
Egypt Temperature by Month: A Quick Guide
- January – February: Cool and mild (10-20°C / 50-68°F)
- March – April: Pleasant spring weather (18-32°C / 64-90°F)
- May: Warm to hot (30-42°C / 86-108°F)
- June – August: Very hot (35-45°C / 95-113°F)
- September: Slightly cooler than summer (30-38°C / 86-100°F)
- October – November: Comfortable travel temperatures (22-32°C / 72-90°F)
- December: Mild winter conditions (15-25°C / 59-77°F)
Nile Cruise Weather in May
If you’re taking a cruise along the Nile, expect warm temperatures during the day and pleasant evenings. The best time for excursions is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.
Weather in Hurghada in May
Hurghada in May is warm, sunny, and perfect for beach lovers. Temperatures range from 30-34°C (86-93°F) during the day, while evenings stay comfortable at 22-26°C (72-79°F). The Hurghada sea temperature in May is around 25-27°C (77-81°F), making it ideal for swimming, diving, and snorkeling. Rain is very rare, and the cooling Red Sea breeze helps balance the heat. If you’re planning a trip, expect clear skies, warm waters, and great conditions for outdoor activities. Don’t forget sunscreen and light
clothing to stay comfortable!
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Egypt in May
Weather & Climate
1. Is it hot in Egypt in May?
Yes, May is quite hot, especially in southern Egypt. Expect temperatures between 30-42°C (86-108°F).
2. Is May too hot to go to Egypt?
It depends on your preference. If you can handle hot temperatures and plan activities early or late in the day, May is a great time to visit.
3. How hot is Hurghada in May?
Hurghada experiences temperatures of 30-34°C (86-93°F), with a comfortable Hurghada sea temperature in May of around 25-27°C (77-81°F).
4. How warm is Sharm El Sheikh in May?
Sharm El Sheikh weather in May is hot, ranging from 30-34°C (86-93°F).
5. Which is hotter, Sharm or Hurghada?
Both are similar, but Hurghada can feel slightly hotter due to its location and desert surroundings.
6. What is the hottest month in Egypt?
July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures often exceeding 45°C (113°F).
7. Can you swim in Egypt in May?
Yes! The Red Sea temperature in May is warm and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Travel & Safety
8. Is May a good time to visit Egypt?
Yes, if you enjoy hot weather and want fewer crowds. However, April and October are more comfortable months.
9. Is it safe to visit Egypt right now?
Yes, but always check government travel advisories before planning your trip. Tourist areas are generally safe.
10. What is the best month to go to Egypt?
The best months are March, April, October, and November, when temperatures are milder.
11. What is the cheapest time to go to Egypt?
Summer months (June–August) and late May tend to be cheaper due to the intense heat.
12. What is holiday weather like in Egypt in May?
Expect hot days and warm evenings, with clear skies and no rain.
13. What is the busiest month in Egypt?
December and January are the busiest months due to Christmas and New Year holidays.
14. When not to travel to Egypt?
Avoid July and August unless you love extreme heat.
Packing & Clothing
15. How should I dress in Egypt in May?
Wear light, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen. Avoid synthetic fabrics.
16. What to wear in Egypt in May?
Loose-fitting clothing
Long sleeves for sun protection
Sandals or breathable shoes
Hat and sunglasses
17. Can female tourists wear shorts in Egypt?
Yes, but in cities and religious sites, it’s better to wear longer skirts or pants for cultural respect.
18. What to wear on a Nile cruise?
Casual summer clothing for daytime and a light jacket for evenings. Comfortable shoes for excursions.
19. What to wear to the pyramids?
Comfortable walking shoes, loose clothing, and a hat for sun protection.
20. Can you wear sandals in Egypt?
Yes, sandals are fine, but closed shoes are better for desert excursions.
21. Can you show your arms in Egypt?
In tourist areas, it’s fine. For religious sites, covering your shoulders is recommended.
Flights & Travel Logistics
22. How long is the flight to Egypt from the UK?
A direct flight from the UK to Egypt takes about 5 hours.
23. Which UK airports fly direct to Egypt?
London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham all offer direct flights.
24. Can you get a train from the UK to Egypt?
No, you must take a flight or combine train and ferry routes.
25. Do TUI fly to Hurghada?
Yes, TUI operates flights to Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh.
Costs & Visa Requirements
26. Is Egypt cheap or expensive?
Egypt is generally affordable, with budget and luxury options available.
27. Do you need a visa for Egypt?
Yes, most travelers need a visa. Many nationalities can get an eVisa or visa on arrival.
28. Do I need a visa for Egypt from the UK?
Yes, UK travelers need a visa, which can be obtained online or upon arrival.
Other Travel Questions
29. What food do Egyptians eat?
Popular dishes include koshari, falafel, ful medames, and grilled meats.
30. What vaccinations do you need for Egypt?
Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus.
31. Where is best to go in May for sun?
Egypt is one of the best places in May for sun, alongside destinations like Turkey and the Canary Islands.
32. Is 22 degrees hot enough to sunbathe?
Yes, especially in sunny conditions, 22°C (72°F) is warm enough for sunbathing.
33. How hot is Turkey in May?
Turkey has a more moderate climate, with temperatures around 20-30°C (68-86°F).
Final Thoughts: Should You Visit Egypt in May?
Egypt in May offers a mix of hot weather and clear skies, making it a great time for beach vacations and desert adventures. However, if you plan to visit historical sites, you should be prepared for intense heat in places like Luxor and Aswan.
✅ Pros of Visiting Egypt in May:
Fewer tourists compared to peak season
Affordable prices for hotels and flights
Great beach weather in Red Sea resorts
❌ Cons of Visiting Egypt in May:
Very hot in southern Egypt (Luxor, Aswan, and the desert)
Midday heat can make sightseeing difficult
Bottom Line: If you can handle warm weather, May is a great time to visit Egypt. Just plan your activities wisely, dress appropriately, and stay hydrated!
Would you prefer a cultural adventure in Luxor or a relaxing holiday in Sharm El Sheikh? Whatever your choice, knowing the Egypt May weather forecast will help you make the most of your trip!
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