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Winter Destinations & New Year’s Celebrations in Egypt

Giza-Egypt
Asterisco

Tour Guide, Cairo, Egypt

| 3 mins read

1. Red Sea Resorts: Sun and Relaxation

  • Hurghada is a top choice for winter travelers seeking warm weather. Even in December and January, daytime temperatures hover around 22–26°C, making it perfect for beach activities.

  • Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving among coral reefs, or take boat trips to nearby islands. Desert excursions on quad bikes or jeeps are also popular.

  • Many resorts host New Year’s Eve parties, including beachfront dinners and entertainment, making it both a relaxing and festive destination.

2. Luxor & Aswan: Cultural Journeys in Comfort

  • Luxor and Aswan are particularly pleasant in winter, with cooler days that make visiting temples, tombs, and the Nile more enjoyable.

  • In Aswan, you can explore the Abu Simbel temples, the Botanical Island, and the Nubian Museum, offering a peaceful environment to start the New Year.

  • In Luxor, evening sound-and-light shows at Karnak or Luxor temples provide magical experiences for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

3. Siwa Oasis: Peaceful Desert Retreat

  • Siwa Oasis is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and nature. The oasis, with its salt lakes, olive groves, and desert scenery, is especially serene in winter.

  • While Siwa does not host large-scale New Year’s parties, its calm and spiritual atmosphere creates a unique way to welcome the new year.

4. Cairo & Alexandria: Urban Festivities

  • Cairo combines historical wonders with lively New Year celebrations. Areas like the Ahl Masr Promenade are decorated with lights and festive decorations, ideal for evening strolls or dinners.

  • Hotels, rooftop restaurants, and Nile cruises in Cairo often host New Year’s events with music, fireworks, and special dining menus.

  • Alexandria also offers a vibrant coastal setting for celebrating, from seaside parties to cultural events in the historic city.

5. Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

  • The Grand Egyptian Museum, near the Giza Pyramids, has become a key attraction.

  • Visiting in winter is ideal due to the comfortable weather, allowing visitors to explore the museum’s vast collection, including all treasures of Tutankhamun, in a relaxed setting.

Why Winter is Perfect for Egypt

  • Comfortable weather: Cooler temperatures make desert, Nile, and museum visits more pleasant than in summer.

  • Fewer crowds: Popular sites like the Giza Plateau, Luxor, and Aswan are less crowded during winter months.

  • Variety of celebrations: From lively hotel parties and Nile cruises to quiet desert retreats, Egypt offers New Year experiences for all tastes.

Tips for Visiting During New Year

  • Book accommodations early; winter is a popular travel season.

  • For lively celebrations, consider a Nile cruise or hotel packages with New Year’s events.

  • For a more serene experience, opt for destinations like Siwa or Red Sea resorts away from the crowds.

Winter in Egypt offers warm sun, fascinating history, and a variety of ways to welcome the New Year, whether you prefer lively festivities or peaceful escapes.

cover photo source: Xinhua
Rest of photos: real experiences with Asterisco