Egypt in November: What to Do & See in the Best Time

As one of the best times to visit Egypt, November brings comfortable temperatures, stunning golden sunlight for photography, and excellent conditions for sightseeing. You can explore famous landmarks like Abu Simbel to discover ancient Egyptian Civilization, take a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings, or enjoy snorkeling in Sharm El-Sheikh. Read it to learn more information and start your journey to Egypt.

Weather in Egypt's November

Egypt in November has clear skies and mild temperatures, making it a great time to explore Egypt and take beautiful photos.

Northern areas like Cairo and Alexandria, with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C, are ideal for exploring the Pyramids of Giza and wandering through Khan El-Khalili Bazaar to indulge in local lives.

Cities like Luxor and Aswan along the Nile River have temperatures around 25-30°C. A hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings will offer you a splendid landscape and a romantic experience, or you can a Felucca boat ride to relax your mind.

The Red Sea resorts, like Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada, offer mild weather. Temperatures of warm sea water ranging from 25-27°C, are perfect for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports.

Inland, the desert's golden sands and dramatic rock formations create incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Crowds & Costs

November is the start of Egypt's peak travel season, meaning hotels, tours, and attractions crowd quickly. If you're planning to visit popular sites like the Pyramids, Abu Simbel, or a Nile cruise, booking flights, accommodations, and guided tours in advance ensures better prices and availability. For photographers, reserving sunrise hot air balloon rides in Luxor or desert safaris early is a must, as these experiences are in high demand.

Excellent Photography Opportunities

Egypt's November offers rich and excellent conditions for photography. The mild weather allows for comfortable outdoor exploration, while the clear skies enhance your photos, making them vibrant. The soft golden lighting during sunrise and sunset creates a magical atmosphere.

You can capture the Pyramids of Giza at sunrise, the colorful streets of Khan El-Khalili, and majestic temples in Luxor and Aswan. A hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings offers breathtaking aerial views. The Red Sea's crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make for incredible underwater photos, while the Sahara's golden dunes and starry skies create unforgettable scenes.

Sphinx and Pyramids in Egypt

Things to See & Do in Egypt in November

Cairo: Unveil the Color of Ancient Egyptian Civilization

Thanks to its mild weather, clear skies, and golden sunlight, Cairo in November offers perfect conditions for capturing stunning photos of history, culture, and daily life.

In Cairo, you can explore the Pyramids of Giza, where the soft morning and late afternoon light enhances the grandeur of these ancient wonders. Capture breathtaking shots of the pyramids against the blue sky, and if you venture inside, you can take mysterious photos of the narrow passageways leading to the burial chambers. At Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, the lively atmosphere and colorful market stalls allow you to experience the local lives. You can snap vibrant images of shimmering lanterns, handcrafted jewelry, and spice-filled sacks, while capturing the energy of merchants calling out to visitors.

Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo

Aswan: Egyptian Felucca Ride & Abu Simbel

With mild weather in November, enjoy a boat ride to Philae Temple in Aswan, a breathtaking ancient site on a small island. You can capture intricate carvings that depict Egyptian mythology, including scenes of gods and pharaohs in striking detail. The reflections of the temple in the calm waters of the Nile add a magical touch to your journey. In the unfinished obelisk, you can take dramatic shots of this massive stone monument still lying in the quarry.

For a truly iconic experience, take a trip to Abu Simbel, home to two colossal rock temples. When bathed in the soft morning light in November, the four giant statues of Ramesses II at the entrance are more sacred. In addition, immerse yourself in a relaxing felucca sail on the Nile. You can be immersed in the golden sunset over Elephantine Island and the lush Botanical Gardens on Kitchener Island.

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Luxor: Hot Air Balloon Ride & Temple Exploration

Start your morning with a hot air balloon ride under a breathtaking sunrise, which takes off between 5:30 and 7:30 am. From above, you'll capture a bird's-eye view of the Valley of the Kings, the Nile River, and the endless golden desert bathed in soft morning light of November. It's a truly romantic and unforgettable scene.

Back on the ground, explore the Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, where towering columns and massive statues stand dramatically against the deep blue sky. The intricate hieroglyphs glow in the warm November sun, making your shots vivid and full of history. Additionally, step into the Valley of the Kings, where you can photograph the grand entrance of ancient tombs, with their colorful wall paintings still preserved after thousands of years.

Hot Air Balloons Above the Nile River

Red Sea Coast: Sharm EI Sheikh & Hurghada

The warm and calm waters in November create stunning conditions for capturing both landscapes and underwater scenes.

In Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, the golden beaches and crystal waters make for postcard-like shots. Dive or snorkel in the Red Sea's vibrant coral reefs, where you can capture colorful fish, graceful sea turtles, and even dolphins in the sunlit water. For breathtaking wide-angle shots, take a boat tour and capture the deep blue sea meeting the endless horizon. The soft golden light at sunrise and sunset reflects beautifully on the waves, and you'll indulge in a dreamy world.

If you prefer relaxation, a luxury beach resort offers elegant settings with palm trees, infinity pools, and ocean views that are suitable for capturing the essence of a tropical paradise.

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Egyptian Sahara Desert: Discover the Charm of Light and Shadow Changes

With November's excellent light conditions, you can capture the endless rolling dunes bathed in soft morning and late afternoon light. The shifting sands create mesmerizing patterns, making for dramatic and dynamic photos.

In the Egyptian Sahara, the landscape in Siwa Oasis transforms into a lush contrast of palm groves, salt lakes, and ancient ruins. The Siwa Salt Pools offer stunning mirror-like reflections, while the Temple of the Oracle provides a mysterious and historic setting, adding a feeling of story to your photos. As the sun sets, the desert sky bursts into deep oranges and purples, casting long shadows over the dunes to create perfect shots.

Camels in the Desert Near the Pyramids

Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Encounter Library Movie Blockbuster

In Alexandria, the library's sleek exterior, engraved with ancient scripts, looks stunning against the bright blue sky in November, making for striking architectural shots. Inside, the vast sunlit reading hall offers a chance to capture the beauty of its modern design, towering bookshelves, and streams of natural light penetrate the glass roof. You can explore rare manuscripts, fascinating exhibitions, and art galleries, taking detailed photos of historical treasures. Outside, the Mediterranean Sea glistens in the afternoon sun, providing a beautiful backdrop for coastal sunset pictures.

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Festivals & Events

Cairo International Film Festival

One of the most prestigious film festivals in the Arab world and Africa, the Cairo International Film Festival takes place from the 12th to the 21st of November in 2025. This exciting event showcases a diverse selection of films from around the world, including international blockbusters, independent productions, and thought-provoking documentaries. You can attend screenings in grand theaters, engage in discussions with filmmakers, and witness glamorous red-carpet events featuring renowned actors and directors.

Arab Music Festival

Hosted at the Cairo Opera House in early November, this festival is a celebration of traditional and contemporary Arab music. It brings together legendary Arab singers, talented musicians, and orchestras to perform classical and contemporary Arabic music. You can experience mesmerizing performances featuring traditional instruments, poetic lyrics, and powerful voices that capture the soul of Arabic culture. The event also includes competitions, lectures, and tributes to music legends, making it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the beauty of Arab music.

Useful FAQs

What to Wear in Egypt in November?

Egypt in November is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 20 - 30°C and cooler evenings. Light, breathable clothing like cotton shirts, loose pants, and comfortable walking shoes are ideal for the daytime. Moreover, bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, as temperatures can drop, especially in Luxor, Aswan, and the desert. A scarf or hat is useful for sun protection, and modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites.

Can You Swim in Egypt in November?

The Red Sea and Mediterranean remain warm, with sea temperatures around 24 - 27°C. You can visit resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada that offer excellent conditions for water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Keep in mind that in the evenings, bring a light cover-up or beach towel to stay warm after swimming.

How to Stay Healthy in November?

Although November temperatures are more moderate than the summer heat, the Egyptian sun can still be intense. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial. This is especially important for long excursions like a Nile cruise or a Sahara Desert safari. Feel free to contact us or write to [email protected], our private service will offer bottled water and arrange an unforgettable journey.