Luxor in December

October through March is prime time — temperatures hover around 25°C during the day and drop to comfortable levels at night. December and January bring the crowds, but also the best weather for tomb exploration. Here's what nobody tells you about summer in Luxor: it's not just hot, it's archaeologically challenging hot. July temperatures hit 45°C regularly. The Valley of the Kings becomes an actual oven, and even early morning visits feel brutal by 9am. Ramadan changes everything. Sites open later, restaurants close during daylight hours, and the whole city shifts to a different rhythm. But the evening iftar celebrations along the Corniche create a special atmosphere you won't find other times of year. Avoid Egyptian holidays like Sham el-Nessim (spring festival) unless you enjoy sharing Karnak Temple with half of Cairo. The sites get packed, and ticket prices sometimes increase.