Aswan Weather in December

December days outdoors

Aswan feels warm and sunny in December, with afternoons near 26°C and very little cloud. Rain is almost unheard of, so you can explore the unfinished obelisk, wander around the Nubian Museum, or take a felucca ride on the Nile without planning around showers. The cooler evenings feel pleasant, but the low can reach 10°C, so a riverside dinner may call for an extra layer.

For families, the comfortable afternoons make a visit to the Nubian villages by boat easier than in the hotter months.

What to expect after dark

December has about 10.5 hours of daylight, so leave room for an early finish to outdoor sightseeing. The sun sets sooner than in summer, and some temple visits can feel chilly once the light fades. Abu Simbel is still worth the trip, but the long drive can feel tiring; save a quiet evening for after it.

There isn't a major annual festival in Aswan in December. Christmas and New Year bring visitors, while Coptic Christmas falls in January, not December. You may still see seasonal celebrations at hotels, but don't count on a city-wide event.

Crowds and local tips

December is high season and one of Aswan's best months, so expect more visitors and higher hotel prices than during the hot summer. It's usually busier than the shoulder months, too. If you want calmer temple visits, go to Philae early, before tour boats fill the island.

At Philae, you reach the temple by motorboat from the dock near the Aswan High Dam. Agree on the return time with your boat operator before setting off; there's no bridge back to shore. Afterward, try a Nubian meal in a village on the west bank.