Things to Do in Cairo in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Cairo
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect weather conditions - virtually no rainfall with clear skies ideal for pyramid visits and outdoor sightseeing
- Comfortable evening temperatures (19°C/66°F) make sunset felucca rides on the Nile and rooftop dining exceptional
- Low tourist season means shorter queues at major attractions and better photo opportunities at the Pyramids of Giza
- Optimal conditions for desert excursions to Saqqara and Dahshur with excellent visibility for photography
Considerations
- Intense midday heat (32°C/89°F) requires careful planning - outdoor activities must be scheduled before 11am or after 4pm
- Very low humidity (55%) combined with desert winds can cause dehydration faster than expected
- Some outdoor restaurant terraces and cafes close their midday service due to extreme heat
Best Activities in May
Pyramids of Giza Complex Exploration
May's clear skies and minimal rainfall create perfect conditions for exploring the pyramid complex. The intense heat means you must start at sunrise (6am) for the best experience and photos without crowds. The dry conditions make climbing around the pyramids safer and more comfortable than humid months.
Nile River Felucca Sailing
May evenings are ideal for traditional sailboat trips - temperatures drop to a comfortable 19°C (66°F) after 5pm. The consistent northerly winds and clear skies create perfect sailing conditions. Sunset trips (5-7pm) offer stunning photography light and relief from daytime heat.
Islamic Cairo Walking Tours
The dry weather is perfect for exploring the narrow medieval streets of Khan el-Khalili and Al-Azhar district. Early morning tours (7-10am) take advantage of cooler temperatures and dramatic side-lighting in the ancient mosques and madrasas.
Egyptian Museum and Air-Conditioned Cultural Sites
May's extreme midday heat makes indoor cultural attractions essential for 11am-4pm periods. The Egyptian Museum, Coptic Museum, and Islamic Art Museum provide perfect climate-controlled environments during peak heat hours while preserving your energy for outdoor evening activities.
Desert Excursions to Saqqara and Dahshur
May's clear, dry conditions offer exceptional visibility for photographing the Step Pyramid and Bent Pyramid. The lack of dust storms and minimal atmospheric haze create ideal conditions for desert pyramid exploration, though timing is crucial to avoid midday heat.
Evening Food Tours in Zamalek and Downtown
Cairo's food scene comes alive in May evenings when temperatures become comfortable for walking between restaurants and street food stalls. The dry weather ensures outdoor terraces and rooftop restaurants are fully operational with perfect conditions for al fresco dining.
May Events & Festivals
Sham el-Nessim Spring Festival
Ancient Egyptian spring celebration typically falling in early May, where locals picnic in parks and along the Nile. Experience traditional foods like feseekh (salted fish) and colored eggs while joining families in Al-Azhar Park and Gezira Island.