Things to Do in Cairo in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Cairo
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect weather window - temperatures drop from brutal summer highs to comfortable 30°C (86°F) days and pleasant 20°C (68°F) evenings, ideal for pyramid climbing and outdoor exploration
- Zero rainfall and clear skies create optimal conditions for photography at sunrise/sunset, with minimal dust storms compared to spring months
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 20-30% from peak winter season while avoiding the skeleton service of summer months
- Extended comfortable hours - you can explore outdoor sites from 7am-6pm without heat exhaustion, compared to summer's narrow 6am-9am window
Considerations
- Still quite hot for midday activities - noon to 3pm temperatures make walking between Islamic Cairo's monuments uncomfortable without frequent breaks
- Tourist season is ramping up - while not peak winter crowds, popular sites like Giza Pyramids see 40% more visitors than September
- Desert wind increases - afternoon winds carry more dust, affecting those with respiratory sensitivities and making contact lens wear challenging
Best Activities in October
Giza Pyramid Complex Dawn Tours
October's moderate temperatures make early morning pyramid visits spectacular. Arrive at 7am when temperatures are 22°C (72°F) and light is golden. The Great Pyramid's interior chambers are comfortable before 10am, avoiding the claustrophobic heat of summer months. Clear October skies provide perfect visibility for the Sphinx and pyramid panoramas.
Nile Felucca Sunset Sailing
October's cooling temperatures and consistent northern winds create ideal felucca sailing conditions. Evening temperatures of 24°C (75°F) with gentle breezes make 2-3 hour sunset cruises comfortable. The dry season means reliable wind patterns and zero chance of rain disrupting your sail. Nile water levels are optimal after summer flood season.
Islamic Cairo Walking Circuit
October's reduced heat makes exploring Islamic Cairo's maze of medieval streets manageable. Morning temperatures of 25°C (77°F) allow comfortable 3-4 hour walking tours through Al-Azhar, Khan el-Khalili, and the Citadel. Clear skies provide excellent lighting for mosque interiors and architectural photography without summer's harsh glare.
Saqqara and Memphis Archaeological Day Trips
October's moderate heat makes the 30 km (19 mile) journey to Saqqara worthwhile. The Step Pyramid complex and Memphis ruins are best experienced in October's comfortable temperatures before winter crowds arrive. Clear weather provides excellent visibility across the archaeological sites, and reduced dust makes photography of hieroglyphs and artifacts clearer.
Egyptian Museum Extended Visits
October's heat makes the air-conditioned Egyptian Museum a perfect midday refuge during 12pm-3pm peak temperatures. With comfortable morning and evening weather for outdoor sites, you can dedicate 3-4 unrushed hours to the museum's 120,000 artifacts. October's clear weather also means better natural lighting through the museum's windows for viewing delicate papyrus and jewelry collections.
Coptic Cairo Underground Exploration
October's moderate temperatures make exploring Coptic Cairo's underground churches and ancient Roman fortress ruins comfortable. The Hanging Church, Abu Serga Church, and Ben Ezra Synagogue are naturally cool, providing perfect respite during October's warm afternoons. Clear autumn light illuminates the intricate Coptic art and ancient Christian artifacts beautifully.
October Events & Festivals
Cairo International Film Festival
One of the Middle East's most prestigious film festivals typically runs in late October. Features international cinema screenings, red carpet events, and cultural exhibitions across Cairo's historic venues. Provides unique opportunity to experience Cairo's contemporary cultural scene beyond ancient monuments.