When to go to Hurghada? Weather and best time month by month

Hurghada weather month by month, sea temperature, wind, summer heat: our guide to choosing the best time for your activities (beach, diving, Luxor, safari).

TipsUpdated October 11, 20262 min read

Hurghada has a desert climate: almost guaranteed sunshine all year and very little rain. The "best" time mostly depends on what you want to do and how well you handle heat.

The climate at a glance

SeasonAtmosphereIdeal for
Winter (Dec – Feb)Mild sunny days, cool evenings, cooler seaSightseeing, safari
Spring (Mar – May)Pleasant heat, warming seaEverything
Summer (Jun – Sep)Very hot, very warm seaBeach, snorkeling, diving
Autumn (Oct – Nov)Pleasant heat, sea still warmEverything

Spring and autumn: our favourite seasons

April-May and October-November have ideal temperatures to combine activities: an island in the morning, a safari in the afternoon, a trip to Luxor without suffering from the heat. The sea is pleasant for snorkeling.

Summer: for sea lovers

In July and August it is very hot during the day, but the sea is at its best. The perfect season for island days and diving. For cultural trips, prefer very early departures and bring plenty of water. Safaris run in the afternoon until sunset, the most pleasant time.

Winter: mild sun and culture

From December to February, days remain sunny and pleasant, ideal for Luxor or the Pyramids. The sea is cooler and the wind can blow: a shorty wetsuit is welcome for snorkeling. Bring a jacket for the evenings, especially in the desert.

The wind

Hurghada is a windy town, which makes the heat easier to bear but can make the sea choppy. Boat trips may be changed in bad conditions: your safety comes first.

School holidays and crowds

School holidays (autumn half-term, Christmas, February, Easter, summer) are the busiest periods. Book your excursions in advance, especially private boats and stays.

Which period for which activity?

ActivityIdeal period
Beach and islandsMay to October
Snorkeling and divingAll year (warmest water July to October)
Cairo and LuxorOctober to April
Desert safariAll year, in the afternoon
Siwa and the White DesertOctober to April

Hurghada at Christmas and New Year

The festive season is very popular: mild sunshine during the day and a festive atmosphere in hotels. Book your excursions early, especially private boats.

Hurghada during Ramadan

During Ramadan, tourist life continues normally in hotels and on excursions. In town, some shop hours change and evenings are lively after the fast is broken. Be discreet when eating or drinking in public in local areas.

What to pack by season

  • Summer: light clothes, a hat, high-protection sunscreen, a UV T-shirt.
  • Winter: a jumper or jacket for the evening, a shorty wetsuit for snorkeling.
  • All year: sunglasses, closed shoes for the desert, swimwear.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Hurghada?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) offer the best balance between pleasant heat and a warm sea. Summer is ideal for the sea, winter for cultural trips.
Can you swim in Hurghada in winter?
Yes, you can swim all year, but the sea is cooler in winter. A shorty wetsuit is recommended for snorkeling.
Is Hurghada too hot in summer?
It is very hot during the day, but the sea breeze makes the heat easier to bear. Enjoy the sea during the day and desert activities in the late afternoon.