Visiting El Giza in December offers several advantages:
- Lower tourist crowds: December is generally a shoulder month for tourism in Egypt, meaning fewer tourists and shorter queues at popular attractions like the Giza pyramid complex.
- Comfortable temperatures: While temperatures can still be warm during the day, nights are cool and pleasant, providing a respite from the summer heat.
- Optimal light for photography: The lower sun angle in December creates ideal conditions for capturing stunning photographs of the pyramids, with warm, golden hues.
- Historical significance: December marks the anniversary of the founding of the modern Egyptian state, adding a layer of historical significance to your visit.
Weather In El Giza During December
December Weather in El Giza, Egypt
December is a pleasant month to visit El Giza, with warm days and cool nights. The weather is mostly dry, with little precipitation expected.
Temperature:
- Average high: 23°C (73°F)
- Average low: 10°C (50°F)
- Average daily temperature: 17°C (63°F)
Sunshine:
- Average daily sunshine hours: 9
- Clear or partly cloudy skies most of the month
Rainfall:
- Average monthly rainfall: 5mm (0.2 inches)
- Typically very little or no rain during the month
Humidity:
- Relative humidity: 60% on average
- Generally comfortable humidity levels
Wind:
- Moderate winds, averaging 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph)
- Occasionally strong gusts of wind possible
Other Considerations:
- Nights can get chilly, so it’s advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater.
- The sun can be strong during the day, so sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended.
- It’s a good time to visit the Great Pyramids of Giza and other outdoor sites, as the weather is generally cooperative.
- Crowds are typically smaller in December compared to peak tourist seasons.
Things To Do In El Giza In December
-
Mawlid an-Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday): This is celebrated on the 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-Awwal and is a public holiday in Egypt. During the festival, Muslims gather in mosques and at home to pray and recite the Quran. There are also often processions and parades in the streets.
-
Christmas: The population of El Giza is primarily Muslim, but there are also Christian communities. Christmas is celebrated on December 25th with religious services, special meals, and gift-giving.
-
New Year’s Eve: The start of a new year is celebrated on the 31st of December with fireworks, parties, and special meals.
Tourism In El Giza, Egypt During December
December in El Giza, Egypt, presents an immersive cultural experience for tourists. Crowds are generally smaller compared to peak season, offering a more intimate and tranquil exploration of the area’s iconic landmarks.
The Giza Plateau, home to the Great Pyramids, offers guided tours that provide insights into the ancient Egyptian civilization. Visitors can marvel at the colossal structures, delve into their architectural intricacies, and learn about the pharaohs entombed within.
Other notable attractions include the Great Sphinx, a majestic and enigmatic monument guarding the plateau. The Saqqara Necropolis, located a short distance from Giza, showcases ancient tombs and pyramids, including the Step Pyramid of Djoser, one of the world’s oldest monumental structures.
Tourists can also visit the bustling Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, a labyrinthine marketplace teeming with traditional Egyptian handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs. The Coptic Christian churches, such as the Hanging Church and the Church of Abu Serga, offer glimpses into the country’s rich religious heritage.
For those seeking a more comprehensive understanding of ancient Egypt, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses an unparalleled collection of artifacts, including mummies, statues, and treasures from pharaonic times.
Overall, December in El Giza, Egypt, offers a blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and unique experiences, making it an ideal destination for discerning travelers interested in uncovering the wonders of ancient Egypt.