Safari in Egypt

Beyond the pyramids, Egypt offers desert safaris in the White and Western deserts and excellent Red Sea marine wildlife. Ras Mohammed National Park and...

Egypt Safari at a Glance

1 safari region, 1 parks & reserves, 5 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Egypt

UK FCDO: Advises against all travel to parts.

Best Time to Visit Egypt

The best months to visit Egypt are April, May, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 20.6°C, rainfall 1.3mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 60.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 20.5°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 61%
  • March: Great, temperature 22.5°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 61.9%
  • April: Great, temperature 25.2°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 60.1%
  • May: Great, temperature 28.1°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 12.5 hrs, humidity 53.4%
  • June: Great, temperature 30.6°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 12.8 hrs, humidity 49.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 32°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 12.3 hrs, humidity 53%
  • August: Great, temperature 32.8°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 55.4%
  • September: Great, temperature 31.3°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 58%
  • October: Great, temperature 28.5°C, rainfall 2.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 69.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 25.6°C, rainfall 6.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 69.5%
  • December: Great, temperature 23°C, rainfall 4.6mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 65.2%

Wildlife in Egypt

Home to 5 recorded species including 3 birds of prey, 1 marine & freshwater, 1 waterbirds.

Notable Species in Egypt

Recommended Packing List for Egypt

Based on average temperature of 26.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 60%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 27°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - Egypt

Travelling safely in Egypt means embracing its rich culture with an informed approach. We find that respecting local customs and staying aware of your surroundings allows for an incredibly rewarding journey, whether you're discovering ancient wonders or the unique marine life of the Red Sea. Always opt for reputable tour operators for desert safaris and diving excursions to ensure expert guidance and safety.

Visa

For most nationalities, we find that securing a visa for Egypt is straightforward. Many can obtain a visa on arrival at major international airports, or apply for an e-visa online before departure. We always recommend checking the latest requirements for your specific nationality well in advance of your trip to avoid any last-minute complications.

Malaria

Egypt is generally considered a low-risk country for malaria. While we don't typically recommend antimalarial prophylaxis for most travellers, we always advise taking precautions against mosquito bites, especially at dusk and dawn. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers, and sleep under mosquito nets if provided, particularly when exploring the unique desert ecosystems of the White and Western deserts or the coastal areas near Ras Mohammed National Park.

Safari Calendar - Egypt

Egypt offers a unique blend of desert adventure and vibrant marine life, and timing your visit is key to experiencing its best. For those seeking the otherworldly landscapes of the White and Western Deserts, we highly recommend the cooler months from October to April. If your heart yearns for the kaleidoscopic reefs of the Red Sea, particularly Ras Mohammed and Wadi El Gemal, the warmer waters from May to September are simply sensational for diving and snorkeling. Birdwatchers will find spring and autumn migrations particularly rewarding across these diverse ecosystems.

January - Winter

We love January for exploring the ancient wonders and embarking on a White Desert safari, where the cool air makes daytime exploration incredibly comfortable.

February - Winter

We recommend February for a combined trip, perhaps a desert adventure followed by some invigorating dives in the clear waters of Ras Mohammed.

March - Spring

For birding enthusiasts, March is a prime time to visit Ras Mohammed or Wadi El Gemal to witness the spectacular spring migrations.

April - Spring

We suggest April for those prioritizing Red Sea diving and snorkeling, as the water temperatures are perfect and visibility is often exceptional.

May - Summer

May is our top pick for dedicated Red Sea diving and snorkeling adventures, offering the warmest water temperatures and fewer crowds than peak winter months.

June - Summer

If you can handle the heat, June offers incredible value and uncrowded dive sites in the Red Sea, making it ideal for serious divers.

July - Summer

We only recommend July for those solely focused on Red Sea marine safaris, where the warm waters and vibrant reefs offer a welcome escape from the heat.

August - Summer

For a summer escape, August in the Red Sea offers fantastic diving conditions and fewer international tourists, allowing for a more serene experience.

September - Autumn

September is a fantastic shoulder month, offering a great balance of pleasant temperatures for both desert excursions and excellent Red Sea diving.

October - Autumn

We consider October to be one of the best months overall, perfect for combining a White Desert safari with a Red Sea marine adventure and exceptional birding.

November - Winter

November is another prime month for a comprehensive Egyptian safari, allowing us to comfortably explore the desert landscapes and vibrant underwater worlds.

December - Winter

Despite the peak crowds, December is magical for experiencing the White Desert's unique formations under crisp skies, perhaps combined with a festive Red Sea dive.

Safari Regions

  • Egypt - 1 safari destinations

Egypt FAQs

When is the best time to experience a desert safari in Egypt's Western Desert, and what are the conditions like?

The optimal time for a desert safari in Egypt, particularly in areas like the White Desert, is from October to April. During these months, temperatures are pleasantly mild during the day and cool at night, providing comfortable conditions for exploration and stargazing, avoiding the intense summer heat.

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter on an Egyptian desert safari, and how does it differ from other safari destinations?

While not focused on large mammals like African savanna safaris, Egyptian desert safaris offer opportunities to spot unique desert-adapted wildlife such as fennec foxes, desert gazelles, and various reptiles. Birdwatching is also rewarding, with species like sandgrouse and desert larks thriving around oases and specific protected areas.

Beyond the desert, what specific marine wildlife experiences does Egypt offer in the Red Sea, and what's the best way to see them?

Egypt's Red Sea is world-renowned for its vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, dugongs, and occasional dolphins. The best way to experience this is through snorkeling or diving excursions, with Ras Mohammed National Park being a prime location for its rich biodiversity.

Is it safe to undertake a multi-day desert safari in Egypt, and what are the typical accommodation arrangements?

Reputable safari operators in Egypt prioritize traveler safety, often using experienced local guides and traveling in convoys through designated routes in the Western Desert. Accommodations typically involve comfortable tented camps set up nightly under the stars, offering an authentic and secure overnight experience with basic amenities.

What is the typical cost range for a multi-day desert safari in Egypt, and what inclusions should I expect?

A multi-day desert safari in Egypt can range from $200-$500+ per person, depending on the duration, operator, and level of luxury. This cost generally includes 4x4 transportation, all meals, camping equipment, and the services of an experienced local guide to navigate the unique desert landscapes.

Recommended Books for Egypt

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in North Africa