Cairo weather in January
“Mild and bright — an underrated time to visit.”
Roughly 1 rainy days across the month, on average.
January is Cairo's coolest and most pleasant month. Daytime temperatures average 19.9°C (68°F), while nights drop to 9.0°C (48°F), so layering is essential. Rainfall is virtually nonexistent at just 3.8mm across 1.3 rainy days, and you'll enjoy abundant sunshine with 9.2 hours daily. The dry, crisp air makes exploring comfortable, though early mornings can feel chilly.
This is peak winter tourism season in Cairo. The mild weather draws visitors from colder climates, and the city buzzes with energy. You'll find the Egyptian Museum, pyramids, and bazaars moderately busy but not overwhelmingly crowded. January also coincides with the Coptic Christmas season (celebrated January 7th), adding cultural richness to your visit.
January 2026 is ideal for outdoor sightseeing. The heat is gone, humidity is low, and you can comfortably spend full days at archaeological sites without exhaustion. Book accommodations early as winter rates are higher and availability tightens. Bring layers to handle the 10°C temperature swings between sun and shade.
What to pack for Cairo in January
Pack layers for January's cool mornings and warm afternoons. You'll need lightweight pieces for daytime and warmer items for evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Cairo's streets and ancient sites.
- Lightweight linen shirt or cotton blend top
- Cardigan or light sweater for layering
- Long cotton trousers or travel pants
- Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
- Lightweight scarf for sun and evening warmth
What to pack for Cairo in January
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Where to stay in Cairo
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Cairo across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Visit the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx, explore the Egyptian Museum, wander Khan el-Khalili bazaar, cruise the Nile River at sunset.
January vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Cairo. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Cairo
While January has its own character in Cairo, the data-backed best months to visit Cairo are February, March, April, November. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across a ten-year climate record.
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for CairoOther places with a similar climate right now
Cairo in January — FAQ
Q01Is January a good time to visit Cairo?
Is January a good time to visit Cairo?
Yes — it is a good time to visit, with pleasant, comfortable weather. In January, Cairo averages a high of 20°C (68°F) and a low of 9°C (48°F), with 4mm of rainfall across roughly 1 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Cairo in January?
What is the average temperature in Cairo in January?
The average high temperature in Cairo during January is 20°C (68°F), with an average low of 9°C (48°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Cairo have in January?
How many rainy days does Cairo have in January?
Cairo averages approximately 1 rainy days in January, with a total monthly rainfall of about 4mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Cairo in January?
What should I pack for Cairo in January?
For Cairo in January, pack layered clothing for changing temperatures, a merino base layer for evenings, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Cairo in January?
How crowded is Cairo in January?
Tourist crowds in Cairo during January are typically moderate. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.