Things to Do in Cairo in December

December Weather in Cairo

20°C (68°F) High Temp

12°C (53°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Prime tourist season with perfect weather - daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) make pyramid climbing and outdoor sightseeing comfortable without the brutal summer heat that reaches 40°C+ (104°F+)
Clear desert skies offer exceptional visibility for photography - the low humidity and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for capturing the pyramids and monuments without haze or dust storms
Extended daylight hours until 5:30pm allow full days of sightseeing, with cool evenings perfect for Nile felucca rides and rooftop dining in Islamic Cairo
Peak cultural season with Cairo Opera House presenting international performances and local festivals celebrating the winter solstice at ancient temples

Considerations

Tourist high season means 40-60% higher accommodation rates and crowded sites - arrive at pyramids by 8am or expect 30-45 minute queues for pyramid entries
Morning fog and dust can reduce visibility for sunrise photography, particularly affecting hot air balloon flights over the pyramids which may be canceled 2-3 days per week
Evening temperatures drop to 12°C (53°F) requiring layers - many outdoor restaurants don't provide heating, making rooftop dining uncomfortable after 8pm

Best Activities in December

Giza Pyramids and Sphinx Tours

December's moderate temperatures make the 2-hour pyramid complex exploration comfortable, avoiding summer's dangerous heat. Early morning visits (7-9am) offer the best lighting and smallest crowds. The cooler weather allows time for climbing inside the Great Pyramid (additional 400 EGP) without overheating.

Booking Tip: Book pyramid entry tickets 7-10 days ahead through official channels, typically 200-400 EGP for basic entry. Private guides cost 300-500 EGP for half-day tours. Choose operators offering early morning starts to beat crowds.

Nile Felucca Sailing

December's gentle winds and clear skies create ideal sailing conditions on traditional wooden boats. The moderate temperatures make sunset cruises (4:30-6pm) particularly pleasant, with no risk of summer's scorching afternoon heat reflecting off the water.

Booking Tip: Felucca rentals typically cost 150-300 EGP per hour for up to 8 people. Book same-day at Corniche harbors, but negotiate prices firmly. Look for boats with cushions and life jackets available.

Islamic Cairo Walking Tours

Cool December mornings are perfect for exploring the medieval streets, mosques, and bazaars. The weather allows 4-5 hours of comfortable walking through Khan el-Khalili and Al-Azhar areas without heat exhaustion. Afternoon prayer calls echo beautifully in the crisp air.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, but knowledgeable guides cost 200-400 EGP for half-day tours. Start early (9am) to avoid midday crowds. Dress modestly for mosque entries - long pants and covered shoulders required.

Egyptian Museum Tours

December is ideal for the air-conditioned museum when outdoor temperatures are pleasant but you want respite from occasional morning fog. Tutankhamun's treasures and mummy exhibits require 3-4 hours minimum. The cooler weather makes the walk between the museum and nearby Tahrir Square comfortable.

Booking Tip: Museum entry costs 200 EGP, mummy room additional 150 EGP. Audio guides available for 50 EGP. Book guided tours through certified operators for 250-400 EGP including skip-the-line access during peak season.

Coptic Cairo Exploration

The ancient Christian quarter is perfect for December wandering, with comfortable temperatures for exploring underground churches and the Roman fortress ruins. The season's clear air enhances the spiritual atmosphere of the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue.

Booking Tip: Most Coptic sites are free or cost 20-60 EGP each. Allow 3-4 hours for the full area. Combined tickets available for 100 EGP. Some sites close 4-5pm, so start morning visits by 10am.

Saqqara Pyramid Complex Day Trips

December's mild weather makes the 45-minute drive south worthwhile for seeing the Step Pyramid and intact tomb paintings. Less crowded than Giza, with comfortable temperatures for exploring underground chambers and the vast archaeological site spanning 7 km (4.3 miles).

Booking Tip: Entry costs 150 EGP, additional tombs 100-150 EGP each. Transportation from Cairo typically 400-600 EGP round trip by taxi. Full-day tours including Memphis cost 800-1200 EGP per person through licensed operators.

December Events & Festivals

Mid December

Cairo International Film Festival

One of the Middle East's most prestigious film festivals showcasing international and Arab cinema across multiple venues including Cairo Opera House. December screenings feature premieres and retrospectives with English subtitles available.

December 21

Winter Solstice at Karnak Temple

Though technically in Luxor (650 km/404 miles south), many Cairo-based tour operators organize special day trips to witness the astronomical alignment of sunlight through the temple's sacred chambers during the shortest day of the year.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - mornings start at 12°C (53°F) but afternoons reach 20°C (68°F), so pack removable sweater or light jacket

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support - Cairo's uneven ancient stones and sandy surfaces require sturdy footwear for 8-10 km (5-6 miles) daily walking

High SPF 30+ sunscreen and sunglasses - desert sun reflects intensely off limestone monuments even in December, with UV index reaching 8

Lightweight scarf or shawl - required for mosque visits covering shoulders/head, plus useful for dusty areas and evening temperature drops

Dust mask or bandana - December occasionally brings dust from the desert, particularly affecting those with respiratory sensitivities

Portable phone charger/power bank - extensive photo opportunities drain batteries quickly in cold morning temperatures

Cash in small Egyptian pound notes - most local vendors, felucca operators, and tipping situations require 20-50 EGP bills

Reusable water bottle - December's moderate temperatures still require hydration, and avoiding plastic reduces environmental impact

Light rain jacket or umbrella - while rare, December sees 10 rainy days averaging brief showers

Evening wear for hotel restaurants - Cairo's upscale dining venues maintain dress codes even during tourist season

Insider Knowledge

Local families visit pyramids on Friday afternoons after prayers - avoid this time for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities without large groups in background

December's morning fog (7-9am) can actually enhance photography at the Sphinx, creating dramatic atmospheric shots that summer visitors never see

Cairo's winter vegetable season brings the best ful medames (fava beans) and kushari - street food vendors serve seasonal versions with winter herbs unavailable other months

The new Administrative Capital's museum opens select preview days in December 2025 - check locally for soft opening schedules before official 2026 launch

Avoid These Mistakes

Underdressing for evening temperatures - tourists often pack only for warm weather but shiver during sunset Nile cruises when temperatures drop 8°C (14°F) from daytime

Booking pyramid entry tickets on arrival during peak season - December queues for internal pyramid access can stretch 90+ minutes, while advance booking guarantees timed entry

Planning outdoor activities during midday fog - December morning mist affects visibility for photography and hot air balloon flights, better to schedule afternoon outdoor activities