Egypt in March

March brings the first hints of warmth but also the season’s notorious khamsin dust events from the south; a hot, gritty wind can sweep through for a day or two and reduce visibility in the Delta. Sea temperatures remain cool around 18-20°C, and beaches are mostly empty except for locals on weekends. If you’re museum-hopping in Alexandria or tasting fresh fish in Ras El Hiema, have sunglasses, a scarf for dust, and a flexible schedule during khamsin days.

March often ushers in the khamsin season: sudden, hot, sandy wind events from the south can raise daytime temperatures rapidly and leave a fine dust over Cairo’s streets. Outside of these spells, afternoons approach the low to mid-20s, good for riverfront walks and exploring Coptic Cairo. Pack sunglasses and a light face covering for dust; khamsin days are unpleasant for those with respiratory issues.

March often warms strongly and the first khamsin dust events can make skies hazy and reduce visibility of the desert backdrops of the temples. Daytime temperatures commonly rise into the high 20s and early 30s, and mid-day heat makes climbing temple terraces tiring. Bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and time your visits for the cooler morning hours to avoid the worst dust and heat.

March brings warmer seas and more sunshine, pushing daytime temperatures toward the high 20s in places like Hurghada and Dahab while humidity stays low. The shoulder season draws divers and kitesurfers; the Sinai wind conditions near Dahab can become favorable for wind sports. March also increases the chance of short, strong khamsin dust events inland, but the coast is usually spared the worst grit.

March presents a split personality: the coast warms into the low 20s while the highlands can still have chill dawns and occasional late-season snow patches. Winds pick up at times, which benefits kitesurfers in Dahab but can make exposed climbs uncomfortable. Spring is a good shoulder season for combining beach time with a wintery mountain walk if prepared for abrupt temperature swings.

March starts to warm and the desert blooms subtly where winter rains were sufficient; daytime highs climb into the low to mid-20s. Khamsin winds may begin to arrive, creating dusty conditions for a day or two and occasionally hampering visibility on long drives, so plan flexible travel. Early spring is a popular time for photography and wildlife watching around salt lakes in Siwa.