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Tips & Recommendations

When's the best time to cruise on the Nile?

Date Published -
November 12, 2024

Encompassed by innumerable monuments and historic treasures, the beautiful stretch of the Nile river between Luxor & Aswan (home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites) regularly features on travelers’ bucket lists and a Nile cruise onboard one of our beautiful ships is the best way to experience it.

The only question that remains is: When?

For starters, we have some good news! Upper Egypt is a year-round destination so no matter when you decide to visit, there will be operating hotels, cruise ships, and of course most if not all monuments and sites will be open.

The bad news? Mayfair Cruises does not currently operate during the summer months because we believe most discerning travelers will choose to travel during Fall, Winter, and Spring in order to make the most of their vacations and avoid the scorching heat during the summer months.

The period from June to August can often be very hot for the average traveler with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and can even reach 48°C (118°F) in the sun.

The absolute best time to visit would be anytime between October & April when the weather is cooler and more pleasant with temperatures generally in the mid-20s°C (Approx. 77°F) during the day and slightly chilly at night (we recommend warm clothes for evenings out on the sun deck).

Nonetheless, despite rising temperatures during the shoulder months of September and May; the weather is hot but not unbearable.

Accordingly, if you don’t mind the heat, cruising the Nile in September and May (with discounted departures throughout the two months) is both a great way to save and to explore the temples and tombs in Upper Egypt with thinner crowds.