The Giza pyramids are the biggest attraction most people want to visit on their first visit to Egypt. They are arguably the oldest man-made tourist attraction in the world and they represent a critical moment in human civilisation.
Built more than 4500 years ago to house the remains of the Egyptian Pharaohs (Kings), the Giza pyramid complex (also called Giza necropolis ) comprises 3 main pyramids, the Great Spynix and many smaller monuments.
Millions of people visit Egypt each year to visit the pyramids and learn about their very long history as well as be in the presence of something from an unimaginable past for us as modern-day humans.
In this article, we'll take a look at when you should plan your trip to Cairo and the Giza Pyramids. As Egypt is a desert country visiting in the months when the temperatures are too high could potentially limit how much you will enjoy your trip.
The Giza Necropolis is located west of the Nile just 13 kilometres (8 miles) southwest of Cairo's city centre. Therefore the climate conditions in Cairo are similar to the nearby Giza complex.
Best Time To Visit Cairo & The Giza Pyramids
The best months for visiting Cairo and the Giza Pyramids are between October and March. This is when the average temperatures are comfortable and you can easily move around and explore the various places.
The difference between the minimum and maximum daily temperature can be more than 10 degrees Celcius (50 F) and the hottest months can have days reaching 40 degrees Celcius (104 F). Going in the slightly cooler months is the best way for you to enjoy the outdoors in comfort.
Related article: Best time to visit Egypt
Cairo Weather Today
Here is a simple embedded weather forecast for Cairo over the next 7 days. Regardless of when you see it, you can see the temperature differences each day. This means that going in a hot period will subject you to uncomfortable heat.
General Climate In Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, like much of Egypt, is a desert and generally receives very little rain. The biggest climate factor in Cairo is the temperature.
Here is a simple climate chart for Cairo and the neighbouring Giza pyramids.
| MONTHS | MIN. TEMP C / (F) | MAX. TEMP C / (F) | AVERAGE RAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 10.5o C / (51o F) | 19.4o C / (67o F) | 0.1 inches |
| Feb | 11.1o C / (52o F) | 20.5o C / (69o F) | 0.1 inches |
| Mar | 13.3o C / (56o F) | 23.8o C / (75o F) | 0.2 inches |
| Apr | 16.1o C / (61o F) | 28.3o C / (83o F) | 0.1 inches |
| May | 19.4o C / (67o F) | 32.2o C / (90o F) | 0.0 inches |
| Jun | 22.2o C / (72o F) | 35o C / (95o F) | 0.0 inches |
| Jul | 23.8o C / (75o F) | 35o C / (95o F) | 0.0 inches |
| Aug | 23.8o C / (75o F) | 35o C / (95o F) | 0.0 inches |
| Sep | 22.7o C / (73o F) | 33.8o C / (93o F) | 0.0 inches |
| Oct | 19.4o C / (67o F) | 30o C / (86o F) | 0.1 inches |
| Nov | 15.5o C / (60o F) | 25o C / (77o F) | 0.2 inches |
| Dec | 11.6o C / (53o F) | 20.5o C / (69o F) | 0.2 inches |
As you can see, the best months are when will be able to comfortably be outdoors, which is between mid-October and March.
Final Thoughts
Even if you don't already live in a country where average temperatures are higher than 25oC (77oF) degrees, Cairo's hot months might take the fun out of exploring the pyramids and nearby sites.
In Summary, Cairo's rainfall is nothing to worry about since it is mostly non-existent but the temperature is a big consideration.
Planning your trip in the appropriate months will make sure that you don't spend your days in Cairo hiding inside the hotel but rather exploring the outside, from the pyramids and museums to the markets and restaurants.
