Best Time to Visit Sharm El Sheikh

Visit Sharm El Sheikh in Jan–May, Oct–Dec.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Quick verdict

Peak season: Jan–May, Oct–Dec. Shoulder: Jun, Sep. Low: Jul–Aug.

Sharm has a hyper-arid hot desert climate with virtually no rain, year-round sun, and one of the world's most reliable beach climates.

What's the weather like in Sharm El Sheikh by month?

Each month classified as peak (best balance of weather and value), shoulder (a step in either direction), or low season.

JanPeak
14-25°C
Coptic Christmas
FebPeak
14-25°C
Sharm El Sheikh International Sports Tournament
MarPeak
14-25°C
AprPeak
19-32°C
Sham El Nessim
MayPeak
19-32°C
JunShoulder
25-38°C
JulLow
25-38°C
AugLow
25-38°C
SepShoulder
25-38°C
OctPeak
21-30°C
NovPeak
14-25°C
DecPeak
14-25°C
Peak seasonShoulderLow season

Why visit Sharm El Sheikh during Jan–May, Oct–Dec?

The peak season. Days are warm and sunny (22-25°C), evenings cool enough for a light sweater, sea around 22-24°C.

Shoulder season (Jun, Sep) trades a small weather concession for noticeably smaller crowds and softer prices — often the sweet spot for travelers who want flexibility.

Low season (Jul–Aug) is when prices fall hardest. Expect weather extremes (heat, humidity, cold, or rain depending on the destination) and reduced hours at some seasonal businesses, but the trade-off can be worth it if budget or solitude matters more than perfect conditions.

What festivals and events happen in Sharm El Sheikh?

  • Sharm El Sheikh International Sports TournamentFebruary

    A long-running international squash and other racquet-sports event drawing professional players to the resort's sports complexes.

  • RamadanVaries (moves 11 days earlier each year)

    Tourist resorts continue to serve food and alcohol throughout, but local Egyptian staff may be quieter during the day. Iftar buffets at sunset are wonderful cultural experiences and many resorts offer special Ramadan menus.

  • Coptic ChristmasJanuary 7

    Egypt's significant Christian minority celebrates Christmas in early January — small cultural events at the larger hotels, but Sharm itself has very few churches.

  • Sham El NessimApril (day after Coptic Easter)

    An ancient Egyptian spring festival that pre-dates Christianity. Egyptian visitors picnic on the beaches and eat traditional dishes — a chance to see local rather than foreign tourism.

What months should I avoid in Sharm El Sheikh?

Avoid Jul–Aug if comfort is your priority — this is when weather extremes peak. That said, prices are also at their lowest, and crowds are thin, so the off-peak window suits travelers who put budget or atmosphere ahead of perfect conditions.

Cooler & warmer in Africa this October

If Sharm El Sheikh's October weather isn't your match, here are the closest Africa alternatives at different temperatures. Distances are from Sharm El Sheikh.

See the full ranked list: All Africa destinations in October

Frequently asked

When is the best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh?

The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh is Jan–May, Oct–Dec. Sharm has a hyper-arid hot desert climate with virtually no rain, year-round sun, and one of the world's most reliable beach climates. These months balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and prices that haven't yet hit peak-season highs.

When is the cheapest time to visit Sharm El Sheikh?

Low-season months in Sharm El Sheikh run Jul–Aug. Flights and hotels typically run 20-40% cheaper than peak. The trade-off is weather (which is why these months are off-peak) and some businesses operating shorter hours, especially in smaller seasonal destinations.

What's the weather like in Sharm El Sheikh year-round?

Summer averages around 33°C (91°F) and winter averages around 19°C (66°F) in Sharm El Sheikh. Sharm has a hyper-arid hot desert climate with virtually no rain, year-round sun, and one of the world's most reliable beach climates. Sea temperatures stay between 22°C in February and 28°C in August. The high season is October-April when air temperatures are perfect for the beach; July-August is uncomfortably hot but the water is a delight.

What months should I avoid in Sharm El Sheikh?

Jun–Aug brings peak heat (often above 32°C / 90°F) and humidity. If you must travel during these months, plan indoor activities for midday and shift sightseeing to early morning or evening.

What festivals or events are happening in Sharm El Sheikh?

Notable events in Sharm El Sheikh: Sharm El Sheikh International Sports Tournament (February); Ramadan (Varies (moves 11 days earlier each year)); Coptic Christmas (January 7). A long-running international squash and other racquet-sports event drawing professional players to the resort's sports complexes.

How many days do I need in Sharm El Sheikh?

Most travelers spend 3-5 days in Sharm El Sheikh, which covers the main neighborhoods, top attractions, and a half-day day trip. Add a day if you're visiting during peak season when crowds slow you down, or if you're combining Sharm El Sheikh with nearby destinations.

More peak-season picks for Sharm El Sheikh's best months

See every destination at its peak in each of Sharm El Sheikh's best months.

Full guide

Sharm El Sheikh travel guide →

Cost, food, neighborhoods, transit, and hand-picked things to do.

Plan a trip

Build a trip around Sharm El Sheikh

Pre-seeds the wizard with Sharm El Sheikh as your anchor stop.