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Cairo in January

Cairo Weather in January

🇪🇬 Egypt

19°C
High
8°C
Low
1
Rain Days
10h
Sunshine
70%
Humidity

Africa › 🇪🇬 Egypt › Cairo

Updated: March 2026

Is January a Good Time to Visit Cairo?

8/10
Excellent

January is a excellent time to visit Cairo (8/10). With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 1 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 9th sunniest of the year in Cairo. Beach and outdoor-focused visitors will find January ideal, though hotel prices reflect demand and popular sites get crowded by mid-morning. February 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 January. 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 December:21°C avg high

Step off the plane in Cairo in January and the air meets you at around 19°C, a temperature that feels genuinely welcoming after a long flight. By the time evening arrives and temperatures settle near 8°C, the city takes on a different character entirely. With 10 hours of daylight sun on offer, January gives you the raw material for a genuinely memorable trip.

19°C

Avg High

8°C

Avg Low

1 days

Rain Days

10h

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Temperature in Cairo in January

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 17 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 66°F average high, 46°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in January

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Cairo in January

Morning8°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon19°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening11°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Cairo in January means dressing for 19°C days and 8°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 19°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evenings drop 11°C to around 8°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 January

January 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 January

Based on 19°C average highs and 1 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 January

  • Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 19°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)January 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 morningJanuary 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-1pmJanuary seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year

Why is Cairo mild in January?

In January, the Azores High weakens and retreats southward, allowing Atlantic storm tracks to cross the Mediterranean and bring the city its seasonal rainfall. Temperatures average 19°C during the day and drop to 8°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 January

In January, Cairo experiences average highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F). Expect around 1 rainy days and 10 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 1 rainy days in January, with total precipitation of around 4mm. This makes January 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 January.
Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Cairo in January. Daytime temperatures of 19°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 8°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 1 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.
Yes, January is an excellent time to visit Cairo. With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 1 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 19°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 January is 19°C (66°F), and the average low is 8°C (46°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 14°C (56°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.
January is shoulder or low season in Cairo, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 10 sunshine hours and 1 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 January, Cairo suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 19°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 10 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

January ranks 9th sunniest of the year in Cairo, with an average 10 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 rise 2°C into February. Compared to last month (December: 21°C high, 0 rain days), January is cooler and wetter. January sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Cairo, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.

Year-Round Climate

MonthHighLowRain DaysSunDetails
January19°C8°C110hView
February21°C9°C110hView
March24°C11°C111hView
April29°C14°C012hView
May33°C17°C013hView
June36°C20°C014hView
July37°C21°C013hView
August37°C22°C012hView
September35°C20°C012hView
October31°C18°C011hView
November25°C14°C110hView
December21°C10°C09hView

Other Months in Cairo

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Plan Your Trip to Cairo

Best Time to Visit CairoCairo vs Alexandria in JanuaryCairo vs Amman in January

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
17°C11°C low
Amman🇯🇴 Jordan495 km away
13°C4°C low
Jerusalem🇮🇱 Israel425 km away
12°C4°C low
Tel Aviv🇮🇱 Israel407 km away
16°C10°C low

Data Sources for Cairo

Cairo on WikipediaOpen-Meteo Climate APINOAA National CentersUK Met OfficeWMOGeoNames

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