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Best Time to Visit Suez

Best Time to Visit Suez

Suez Suez, Egypt Travel Guide

Best Times to Visit

Suez experiences a hot desert climate, which means distinct weather patterns throughout the year.

Summer (June to September): Very hot conditions. Daytime temperatures range from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F), often rising above 40°C (104°F). Humidity stays low. No rain during these months.
Winter (December to February): Mild and nice weather. Daytime temperatures between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Nights cool to 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F). Very low precipitation.
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November): Warm to hot temperatures. Daytime averages range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Spring brings "Khamsin" winds—hot, dry, and dusty desert winds that cause sandstorms and sudden temperature spikes.

Suez Weather Overview

  • Summer: Warm and dry, over 40°C.
  • Winter: Mild days, cool nights, 15-20°C.
  • Spring: Warm, possible Khamsin winds.
  • Autumn: Warm, pleasant, lower humidity.

Special Weather Notes

Summer in Suez brings very high temperatures. Plan activities for early mornings or late afternoons. Khamsin winds occur during spring (March-May) and can reduce visibility and cause respiratory irritation. If a Khamsin wind is forecast, plan indoor activities. Suez does not experience monsoon seasons or hurricanes, offering a consistent dry climate.

For water-based activities like getting in the water or snorkeling in nearby Ain Sokhna, late spring (May) and the beginning of autumn (September-October) offer warm water temperatures and less extreme heat than peak summer. Winter (November-March) delivers comfortable temperatures for walking tours, visiting memorials, and observing the Suez Canal.

High Season Oct-Apr

More crowds, higher prices

Benefits

Pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor pursuits.

Drawbacks

Higher costs for flights and accommodations, a greater number of visitors at popular sites.

Shoulder Season May, Sep

Fewer crowds, moderate prices

Benefits

Fewer crowds and slightly lower prices, manageable temperatures.

Drawbacks

May and September feel warm, making midday outdoor activities less comfortable.

Low Season Jun-Aug

Lowest prices, minimal crowds

Benefits

Lowest prices for hotels and flights, minimal crowds for a relaxed experience.

Drawbacks

Extreme heat limits daytime outdoor exploration to challenging and uncomfortable levels.

Ideal Timing for Activities

Water Activities

For swimming, snorkeling, or enjoying nearby the coastline of Ain Sokhna, late spring (May) and early autumn (September-October) deliver warm water temperatures and less extreme heat than peak summer.

Sightseeing & History

Winter (November-March) has the most pleasant weather for walking tours, visiting memorials, and observing the Suez Canal. Mild weather makes extended outdoor time enjoyable.

Climate Considerations

  • Extreme High Temperatures

    Summer in Suez means very high temperatures. Plan activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

  • Khamsin Winds

    These hot, dry, and dusty desert winds occur during spring (March-May). They can reduce visibility and cause respiratory irritation.

  • No Monsoon/Hurricane

    Suez does not experience monsoon seasons or hurricanes, offering a consistent dry climate.

  • Comfortable Months

    Consider late autumn or early spring for a balance of good weather and fewer visitors.

  • Peak Season

    October to April offers pleasant weather but has higher prices and more visitors.

Important Weather Alerts

  • Extreme heat in summer, stay hydrated and seek shade.
  • Khamsin sandstorms can reduce visibility in spring.
  • Strong sun exposure; use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Timing Your Trip

Visiting Suez in late autumn or early spring delivers a balance of pleasant weather and fewer visitors.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Travelers planning a visit to Egypt, including Suez, should review the entry and visa regulations. These rules differ based on your nationality.

Visa Options for Egypt

Most nationalities need a visa to enter Egypt. Common types include tourist visas, available for single or multiple entries.

Application Methods

  • Online (e-Visa): Many countries apply through the official Egyptian e-Visa portal.
  • Visa on Arrival: Eligible nationalities obtain a visa upon arrival at primary international airports.
  • Embassy/Consulate: Apply in advance if not eligible for e-Visa or visa on arrival.
  • Check your eligibility at VisaHQ or IVisa.

Required Documentation

Prepare these documents for your visa application and entry into Egypt.

Documents

  • Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond departure.
  • Passport-Sized Photos: For e-Visa or embassy applications.
  • Evidence of Financial means: For Visa on Arrival, sufficient cash for the fee.
  • Flight & Accommodation Details: Copies of itinerary and reservations.

Entry Procedures & Fees

Visa on Arrival Costs

  • Single-entry tourist visa: $25 USD (30-day stay).
  • Multiple-entry visa: $60 USD.
  • Pay fee in cash at airport bank kiosks (USD, EUR, or GBP).
  • Immigration: Present passport and visa for stamping.

Special Permits & Health

  • Standard tourist activities do not need special permits.
  • No general health entry requirements for most travelers.
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate needed if arriving from endemic countries.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended, although not an entry rule. Consider World Nomads or SafetyWing.

Health Guidelines

  • No particular vaccinations are needed for entry to Egypt for most travelers.
  • If from a yellow fever risk country, present vaccination certificate.
  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for personalized advice on recommended vaccines.
  • Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP) should be current; Vaccinations FOR HEPATITIS A & b, Typhoid are often recommended.

Travel Insurance

We highly recommend travel insurance for all travelers to Suez. A good policy should cover medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, and lost luggage.

Coverage Highlights

  • Medical treatment for illness or injury.
  • Emergency evacuation costs.
  • Reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if your trip is canceled or cut short.
  • Coverage for lost or stolen personal belongings.

Providers to Consider

  • World Nomads: For adventurous travelers.
  • SafetyWing: Designed for digital nomads.
  • Choose a policy matching your travel style and health needs.
  • Read policy details carefully.

Document Security

Keep photocopies or digital images of your passport, visa, and other documents stored separately from the originals. This assists with case of loss or theft.

Budgeting & Costs

Egypt caters to diverse travel styles, from budget-conscious to luxury.

Currency & Exchange

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), symbolized as E£ or LE. Banknotes are available in values of EGP 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200. Coins come in EGP 0.25, 0.50, and 1.

Exchange foreign currency at official currency exchange offices (bureaux de change) and banks. ATMs are frequently found in Suez and other major cities for cash withdrawals. Larger hotels, restaurants, and shops generally accept credit and debit cards, but cash is useful for smaller purchases, street food, local transport, and tipping.

Financial Tips

  • Official exchange rate: ~A SINGLE dollar ≈ 30.9 EGP (check current rates).
  • Cash is king for small purchases and tips.
  • Cards accepted in larger establishments.
€25

Budget Traveler

Expect basic guesthouses or budget hotels (EGP 200-500/night). Meals from street food or local eateries (EGP 150-300/day). Use public microbuses (EGP 50-100/day). Focus on free or low-cost sites.

Daily average: EGP 700 - 1500 (~$25 - $50 USD).

Excludes international flights. Prices fluctuate.

€50

Mid-Range Traveler

Stay in 3-star hotels (EGP 500-1500/night). Enjoy mid-range restaurants (EGP 300-600/day). Use taxis for short distances (EGP 100-300/day). Include entrance fees to attractions.

Daily average: EGP 1500 - 3000 (~$50 - $100 USD).

Excludes international flights. Prices fluctuate.

€100+

Luxury Traveler

Choose 4-5 star hotels (EGP 1500+/night, limited in Suez city). Experience fine dining (EGP 600+/day). Arrange private drivers (EGP 300+/day). Consider guided tours and exclusive experiences.

Daily average: EGP 3000+ (~$100+ USD).

Excludes international flights. Prices change.

Specific Costs Snapshot

Category Item Price Range (EGP)
Accommodation (per night) Budget Hotel/Guesthouse 200-500
Mid-range Hotel 500-1500
Meals Street Food/Local Sandwich 20-100

Meal Price Examples

  • Local Restaurant MealEGP 100-300
  • Mid-range Restaurant MealEGP 300-600
  • Fine DiningEGP 600+
  • Coffee/TeaEGP 20-50

Attraction Costs

  • Suez Canal Authority MuseumEGP 50-100 (estimate)
  • Martyrs' MemorialFree
  • Other local sitesOften free or minimal fees
  • Guided Tour (half-day)EGP 500-1500

Local Transport

  • Microbus/Shared Taxi (per ride)EGP 5-20
  • Short Taxi Ride (Suez city)EGP 50-150

Longer Journeys

  • Longer Taxi Ride (e.g., Suez to Ain Sokhna)EGP 300-600
  • Intercity Bus (Suez to Cairo)EGP 100-200
  • Private Transfer (Cairo Airport to Suez)EGP 800-1500

Tipping Culture Baksheesh

Restaurants (5-10% of bill)Round up or small extra tip
Taxi DriversRound up or EGP 5-10
Hotel PortersEGP 20-50 per luggage handle
HousekeepersEGP 30-70 per day
Tour GuidesEGP 100-300 per day
Restroom AttendantsEGP 5-10

Money-Saving Strategies

  • Eat local at street food stalls for cheap meals.
  • Use microbuses for economical transportation in the cityation.
  • Bargain politely in markets and for unmetered taxi rides.
  • Choose budget accommodation to manage expenses.
  • Carry small denominations of Egyptian Pounds for easy tipping and purchases.
  • Carry a Reusable water bottle and fill it with Bottled water to save money.

Health & Safety Considerations

Understand necessary precautions and available resources.

Vaccinations & Prevention

  • Recommended Vaccinations:

    Consult your doctor for personalized advice. Routine vaccinations should be current. Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid are often recommended. Rabies for long-term travelers.

  • Traveler's Diarrhea:

    Drink only bottled water (check seals). Don't have ice. Eat well-cooked food. Peel fruits. Wash hands frequently. Carry Anti-diarrhea medication like Imodium.

  • Heatstroke/Dehydration:

    Drink plenty of bottled water. Wear light clothing. Use High SPF sunscreen, a Wide-brimmed hat, and Sunglasses. Avoid midday alfresco activity.

Food & Water Safety

Tap water is generally not safe for drinking. Use bottled water for all consumption, including brushing teeth.

Choose reputable, clean, and crowded restaurants. Opt for hot, hot food. Avoid raw or undercooked meats, and unwashed fruits or vegetables. For street food, pick vendors with high turnover and visible hygiene practices.

Keep skin clean and dry to prevent infections. Treat cuts promptly. Use insect repellent, especially at dusk and dawn, and consider long sleeves/trousers in evenings.

Always prioritize hygiene for a healthy trip.

Healthcare & Emergency Contacts

  • 1
    Healthcare Access:

    Suez has hospitals and clinics; quality varies. Private hospitals generally offer higher standards. For serious issues, consider Cairo.

  • 2
    Emergency Services:

    Police: 122, Ambulance: 123, Fire: 180. These are the main emergency contacts in Egypt.

  • 3
    Travel Insurance:

    Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. It should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, trip interruption, and lost luggage.

Safety & Security

Suez is generally a safe city for tourists. It experiences fewer tourist-targeted scams relative to other Egyptian destinations.

Petty Crime Prevention

  • Stay vigilant in crowded areas.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuables.
  • Use a Money belt for important documents and excess cash.

Neighborhood Safety

  • No specific neighborhoods are known as high-crime areas for tourists.
  • Exercise standard caution in unfamiliar or dimly lit areas, especially at night.
  • Suez is a port and manufacturing hub; some areas are less tourist-centric.

Natural Disaster Risks

Egypt is in an active seismic zone, but major damaging earthquakes are rare. Structures are generally constructed to withstand minor tremors.

Sandstorms Khamsin

Occur in spring (March-May). These can reduce visibility, cause respiratory issues, and disrupt travel plans. Stay indoors if a sandstorm is forecast.

Extreme Heat

Severe heat in summer poses risks of heatstroke and dehydration. Follow recommended prevention strategies like hydration and shade seeking.

General Precautions

Share your itinerary and emergency contact information with family or friends at home. This helps them reach you in case of an emergency.

Emergency Contacts

Direct Services

  • Police122
  • Ambulance123
  • Fire180
  • Tourist Police126

Important Information

  • Embassy/ConsulateContact in Cairo for your country
  • Hotel Address & PhoneKeep it handy
  • Travel Insurance Emergency LineKeep contact details accessible
  • Lost DocumentsReport to police, then embassy

Stay Informed

Always check the latest travel advisories from your government and health authorities before your trip.