Best Time to Visit Egypt and Jordan: Seasonal Travel Tips
Is summertime here too hot? Is wintertime too chilly? Please read our guide to discover the best time to visit Egypt and Jordan. To ensure you have all the information you need to plan your land and air travel inside both countries, this guide also includes travel advice from our knowledgeable tour guides and tour designers.
Trips to Jordan and Egypt are doable all year round, but be advised that June, July, and August in both countries can be sweltering. February through April is the best time to visit Egypt and Jordan for more temperate weather. Winters are fleeting, but be ready for really cold evenings in December and January in both countries; Egypt is not so chilly, but bring a few extra apparel. Because the largest bulk of Jordan’s rain falls in January, this is not the ideal time to visit, but don’t let that deter you if you’re willing to wear a rain jacket and want Petra all to yourself.
Best Time to Visit Egypt and Jordan
Timing is among the most important things one considers when planning an adventure in Egypt and Jordan. Both countries have different historical and cultural attractions, accompanied by their beautiful landscapes. The best time to visit Egypt and Jordan may be quite imperative in enriching your experience. A guide is now provided to assist you in determining the best seasons to tour these interesting places.
Weather Factors Egypt
Egypt has a hot desert climate. Generally speaking, the summer is scorchingly hot and dry, while in winter it is mild. For most parts of the country, including the most popular tourist cities in Cairo and Luxor, these summer months can reach as high as 100°F from June to August. The heat may be very extreme during the summer months, hence, when it gets to noon, staying outdoors might be quite unbearable.
Due to such extreme conditions, travelers are recommended to plan activities either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Winter, on the other hand, from December to February, has a mild climate for touring with an average temperature between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C). This is a very good time to visit, as the cooler weather makes exploration of Egypt’s iconic sites, such as the Pyramids of Giza, temples of Luxor, and wild markets of Cairo, much more agreeable. It is very arid, with minimal rain throughout the year. On the northern Mediterranean coast, however, there is partial precipitation during the winter months, which gives it a refreshing edge from the arid conditions of the rest of the country.
These are considered spring and autumn transitional months, from February to April and September to November. This period catches moderate temperatures in Egypt and lower tourist flow compared to the winter months. This is the best time with pleasant flows of wind and good skies for outdoor excursions and cultural events.
Weather Factors Jordan
Jordan has a highly varied climate because of its distinctions in altitude between its highlands and desert areas. The highlands are cooler, especially in winter, to which belong Amman and Jerash. The best time to visit Jordan is during spring, just around March to May. From September to November, the weather is delightfully mild, hovering between 60°F and 80°F. Both seasons have their merits for visiting Jordan’s iconic sites, be it the ancient city of Petra, the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes of Wadi Rum, or historic ruins such as Jerash.
In spring, the wildflowers bloom and color the countryside with resplendent colors, while spectacular scenes please your eyes, leaving one breathless to enrapture all the beauty found in Jordan, within its natural and archaeological richness. In autumn, the climate is just as mild, rendering the season apt for hiking and exploration through the desert.
Summer months start in June and last through August, often reaching temperatures over 100°F or 38°C in parts of the desert. While this acts as a hindrance to most travelers, people who can bear the heat find that the crowds at tourist attractions are smaller. Not only that, but one should also make sure to keep oneself hydrated at all times and schedule outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day.
Avoid Visiting Jordan from December to February
The winters are cool, mainly in the highlands, from December to February. At night during this time, it gets down to around 40°F or 4°C. It even snows quite a lot in those mountain areas, creating a beautiful scene. This is not exactly the time when Jordan is seen, but its natural beauty and historic places wear a different look during winter.
It is good to know the weather in Egypt and Jordan to plan a visit accordingly. The peak seasons in both countries are generally preferred, but spring and autumn are considered the best shoulders, offering a good combination of weather and avoiding crowds. Be it the cooler temperatures or vibrant blooms of spring, the varied experiences of each season make the rich histories and stunning landscapes these amazing destinations have to offer come to life.
Peak Tourist Seasons
The peak time to visit Egypt and Jordan falls in the period between October and April. This is when people around the world would wish to have a time off and be able to see these two countries, which are having mild and pleasant weather. The temperatures of the atmosphere, neither too hot nor too cold, are accompanied by clear skies. This is one of the best times to see all kinds of historic sites along with other wonders of nature in Egypt and Jordan.
These are those months of the year when such popular places in Egypt, like the “Pyramids of Giza”, “Luxor”, and the “Nile River”, get very crowded. The period is, nevertheless, quite pleasant to visit the ancient temples and tombs since visitors do not have to bear the intensive summer heat. Similarly, in Jordan, famous attractions such as “Petra”, “the Dead Sea”, and “Wadi Rum” become beehives of activity. Good weather allows the adventurers to go outdoors, hike, do some sightseeing, and enjoy unique landscapes.
It gets very crowded
Expect popular sites to be very crowded in peak season when the numbers of tourists swell. Tourists may need to line up in long queues at major attractions or even walk through large sets of crowds. For this reason, booking your accommodation and tours in advance is a good idea. The guided tour that involves skip-the-line access at popular sites is often a good way to ensure the smoothest experience possible for many travelers.
This peak season happens to fall squarely on some local festivals and events that may give meaning to the travel experience. For instance, in Egypt, there is the Cairo International Film Festival in November, which all film enthusiasts go to obtain a deeper understanding of the local arts. In Jordan, the “Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts” in July features music, dance, and general cultural performances that provide an ambiance of vibrancy for the visitor.
The high season gives the best weather; it’s much livelier, though. Tourists must also consider the shoulder seasons in late spring and early autumn of May and September, respectively. These months may provide a good compromise between fairly decent weather and not so much crowding for those more personal times at popular sites.
The high season, which runs from October through April, brings the best out of Egypt and Jordan. However, with a little planning and consideration of shoulder seasons, places can be less crowded and more enjoyable.
Off-Peak Advantages
Indeed, lifetime experiences filled with historic and cultural interest and scenic beauty are guaranteed in both countries. Regardless of the crowds, both countries guarantee lifetime experiences rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty.
Benefits of visiting in the Off-Season
Traveling to Egypt and Jordan during off-peak summer months is pretty difficult because it is so intolerably hot, especially in desert areas. This time of year does have a couple of advantages that might make traveling at this time just a little bit more special.
Fewer Tourists
Perhaps the most cited advantage of traveling in the off-season is fewer tourists. Major attractions will be less crowded, including the Pyramids of Giza, Petra, and the Dead Sea. You’ll have iconic sites to yourself, allowing for great photos and a personal experience of the region’s history and culture. This event may create a more serene environment. As a result, local guides and natives can provide insights and share stories.
Cost Efficiency
Many hotels and tour operators drastically cut their rates during the off-peak months, and it is less crowded. Accommodations, tours, and even dining can be significantly cheaper for travelers. In this way, travelers can enjoy a reasonably priced, luxurious experience without breaking the bank.
Full-color landscapes await in the spring shoulder season. May and early autumn in September offer a good balance of decent weather and smaller crowds. The temperatures can still be warm, but they are generally not as hot as the summer highs. Evening temperatures are often quite mild. This period typically includes months that paint this region with vibrant colors. It ranges from the blossoming flowers of spring to the color-changing leaves of autumn. Especially in places like Wadi Rum, the striking desert landscape offers cool nights perfect for stargazing.
Unparalleled Experiences
Off-season travel also has its own experiences, which may not be quite possible in peak seasons. For example, some local festivals occur in summer. It is one of the good ways to experience the culture and tradition of the region. One can engage with local customs. For instance, attending cooking classes or listening to traditional music performances can enhance your travel experience. These activities can create lifelong memories.
Flexibility in Itinerary
Travelers tend to enjoy their travel plans more with fewer tourists. You can book tours or activities at the last minute, and that allows spontaneity. That spontaneity can lead you to hidden gems often missed during high season. Whether it’s a lesser-known site or a small local marketplace, the off-season reveals the authentic charm of Egypt and Jordan.
Summers can be challenging due to high temperatures. However, the off-season offers benefits like fewer tourists, cost savings, vibrant landscapes, unique experiences, and flexible itineraries. For many travelers, it’s worth it. With a well-thought-out plan and precautions against the heat, the experience in Egypt and Jordan can be enriching. The tour will showcase beauty and history without the discomfort of high tourist seasons.
Special Events and Festivals
Planning a tour to Egypt and Jordan around local events greatly enhances the travel experience. It provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of culture that both countries offer. Festivals introduce one to the customs of the locals and afford interaction with the community through joining in joyful festivities.
Egypt: Cairo International Film Festival
The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF), the largest event in Egypt, occurs every November since its establishment in 1976. One of the oldest and most respected festivals in the Arab world brings together filmmakers, critics, and cinema enthusiasts. It attracts participants from all over the globe. There is a great variety of films and international pieces in Egyptian cinema. CIFF showcases its magic at the iconic Cairo Opera House, providing a surreal backdrop for screenings, workshops, and panel discussions.
A visit to CIFF is an on-spot journey into the world of film coupled with the cultural vibrancy of Cairo. Events at the festival typically feature red carpet-appearances. They also include question-and-answer sessions with filmmakers and opportunities to meet other industry professionals. Film enthusiasts will witness emerging talent across various genres, from documentaries to feature films. Moreover, this film festival creates a community of film enthusiasts; hence, it is a very lively event. Jordan: Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts
The Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts
This rich festival includes music, dancing, theater events, and art exhibitions. It is set against the breathtakingly attractive backdrop of the ancient Roman city of Jerash. The beautiful ruins in Jerash feature well-preserved columns and amphitheaters. This stunning setting adds flair to performances that celebrate both local and international artists. The usual events that occur within this festival vary from traditional Jordanian folk music performances to modern dance and theater. This is a great opportunity to witness Jordanian hospitality firsthand. The whole surrounding area pulsates with art, culture, and food. The Jerash Festival serves as a window to the artistic talents within the country. It also fosters cultural exchange by attracting visitors from various parts of the world.
Other Events of Repute
Besides these major festivals, other events in both Egypt and Jordan run throughout the year depicting their rich cultural heritage.
In Egypt, for example, there is the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, which occurs in February and October. It celebrates the days when the sun aligns with the temple of Ramses II. It allows visitors to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon in person. Likewise, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad features vibrant processions and a variety of cultural activities throughout the country.
In Jordan, the Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival showcases the traditional crafts of the land, its music, and its dance. It is also a venue where traditional artisans can show their skills and talent. Complementing such events is Petra by Night, where guests can witness the ancient city lit only by candlelight. These events tend to have quite a different experience. It has more to do with the beauty and history of the region.
Best Time to Visit Egypt and Jordan
Ultimately, it depends on how one perceives weather conditions, and crowds, as the best time to visit Egypt and Jordan. Visits planned between October and April will be the best because of the comfortable weather with lively cultural events. If you don’t mind a few tourists and can handle the heat, summers are a great option. Whichever the season, Egypt and Jordan would never let down the intrepid traveler with unparalleled memories of history and culture. Get ready for the time of your life, full of local festivals and events coming alive at these remarkable destinations!
