Cairo Weather in December

🇪🇬 Egypt

21°C

High

10°C

Low

Rain Days

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Africa › 🇪🇬 Egypt › Cairo

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Cairo?

8/10

Excellent

December is a excellent time to visit Cairo (8/10). With 9 daily sunshine hours and only 0 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 12th sunniest of the year in Cairo. Beach and outdoor-focused visitors will find December ideal, though hotel prices reflect demand and popular sites get crowded by mid-morning. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Cairo's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: book accommodation at least 6-8 weeks ahead, as popular hotels fill quickly during December. Purchasing skip-the-line tickets for major attractions in advance saves meaningful time. If you have flexibility, arriving a few days before or after peak weekends reduces both crowds and prices noticeably.

vs November:25°C avg high

Step off the plane in Cairo in December and the air meets you at around 21°C, a temperature that feels genuinely welcoming after a long flight. By the time evening arrives and temperatures settle near 10°C, the city takes on a different character entirely. With 9 hours of daylight sun on offer, December gives you the raw material for a genuinely memorable trip.

21°C

Avg High

10°C

Avg Low

0 days

Rain Days

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Temperature in Cairo in December

The 11°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 16 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 70°F average high, 50°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Cairo in December

Morning10°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon21°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening13°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Cairo in December means dressing for 21°C days and 10°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 21°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evenings drop 11°C to around 10°C, a notable shift that catches underprepared visitors off guard. Pack a dedicated evening layer. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.

💡

Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Cairo. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.

Events in Cairo in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Cairo, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Cairo in December

Based on 21°C average highs and 0 rainy days

Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
Universal travel adapter
Small day pack for city exploration
Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Cairo in December

Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 21°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)December is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmDecember seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year

Why is Cairo mild in December?

In December, the Azores High weakens and retreats southward, allowing Atlantic storm tracks to cross the Mediterranean and bring the city its seasonal rainfall. Temperatures average 21°C during the day and drop to 10°C at night as cold continental air occasionally pushes in from the north. This is the rainy season that keeps the region's landscape green through spring. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cairo in December

In December, Cairo experiences average highs of 21°C (70°F) and lows of 10°C (50°F). Expect around 0 rainy days and 9 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 11°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.

Cairo typically sees 0 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 2mm. This makes December one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Cairo typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.

Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Cairo in December. Daytime temperatures of 21°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 10°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 0 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.

Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Cairo. With 9 daily sunshine hours and only 0 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 21°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.

The average high temperature in Cairo in December is 21°C (70°F), and the average low is 10°C (50°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 16°C (60°F). The day-to-night range of 11°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.

The best month to visit Cairo is generally June. June offers the most sunshine at 14 hours per day and only 0 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 36°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around June gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

December is shoulder or low season in Cairo, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 9 sunshine hours and 0 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.

In December, Cairo suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 21°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 9 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Cairo, with an average 9 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are April, May, and June. July is the hottest month (37°C avg high); January is the coolest (19°C). From here, temperatures fall 2°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 25°C high, 1 rain days), December is cooler and drier. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.

Year-Round Climate

Month	High	Low	Rain Days	Sun	Details
January	19°C	8°C	1	10h	View
February	21°C	9°C	1	10h	View
March	24°C	11°C	1	11h	View
April	29°C	14°C	0	12h	View
May	33°C	17°C	0	13h	View
June	36°C	20°C	0	14h	View
July	37°C	21°C	0	13h	View
August	37°C	22°C	0	12h	View
September	35°C	20°C	0	12h	View
October	31°C	18°C	0	11h	View
November	25°C	14°C	1	10h	View
December	21°C	10°C	0	9h	View

Other Months in Cairo

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Cairo

Best Time to Visit Cairo Cairo vs Alexandria in December Cairo vs Amman in December

Nearby Destinations with Similar Weather

These cities are within 500 km and experience broadly comparable weather conditions during the same calendar month, making them practical standalone alternatives or worthwhile additions to a longer regional itinerary.

Alexandria🇪🇬 Egypt180 km away

19°C13°C low

Amman🇯🇴 Jordan495 km away

15°C6°C low

Jerusalem🇮🇱 Israel425 km away

14°C6°C low

Tel Aviv🇮🇱 Israel407 km away

19°C12°C low

Data Sources for Cairo

Cairo on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.