Sharm El Sheikh in Winter: Weather and the Best Things to Do

Winter is one of the best times to visit Sharm El Sheikh. The days are sunny and comfortable, the desert is pleasant at any time of day, and the Red Sea stays warm enough to snorkel. The one thing people underestimate is how cool the evenings get. Here's what to expect from November to February, and the trips that suit the season best, starting with the Colored Canyon and Dahab day trip.

Winter weather in Sharm El Sheikh

Average temperatures from our climate guide:

• •November: around 27 °C by day and 18 °C at night; sea about 25 °C.
• •December: around 23 °C by day and 15 °C at night; sea about 23 °C.
• •January: around 22 °C by day and 13 °C at night; sea about 22 °C.
• •February: around 23 °C by day and 14 °C at night; sea about 21 °C.

Expect sunshine most days. It can be windy, especially on the coast and out at sea, and the desert gets properly cold after dark.

The best trips in winter

Day trips that are too hot in summer

Winter is the season for long days out. The Colored Canyon and Dahab day trip (9 hours, €25) includes a guided walk through the narrow sandstone canyon, a camel ride along the coast to Dahab, snorkeling, lunch and a quad ride, and it's far more comfortable in the cooler months.

Desert safaris at any time of day

In summer you'd pick the morning, but in winter the afternoon quad safari is a great choice, riding into the late-afternoon light. The Super Safari is at its best now too: a sunset camel ride and dinner at a Bedouin camp (more about the landscape in the Sinai desert near Sharm El Sheikh). Bring a warm jacket for the evening.

Snorkeling and boat trips

The sea is still around 21–25 °C, and visibility on the reefs is excellent; our Red Sea fish guide shows what you'll see. The Ras Mohammed boat trip and the Tiran Island trip run all winter. On windy days the crew picks sheltered moorings; a rash vest or thin wetsuit keeps you warm in the water, and a jacket is welcome on deck.

What to pack for winter

• •A warm fleece or light jacket for evenings and the desert.
• •Long trousers for evening safaris.
• •Swimwear and a rash vest or wetsuit top for snorkeling.
• •Sun cream: the winter sun is still strong.

See our full packing list and the best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh for month-by-month advice.

Christmas and New Year

The weeks around Christmas and New Year are the busiest of the winter, with many European visitors. Book popular tours a few days ahead at that time, and plan an evening safari for a memorable night out.

A three-day winter plan

1. Day 1: afternoon quad safari, sunset by the pool.
2. Day 2: Colored Canyon and Dahab day trip.
3. Day 3: Ras Mohammed boat trip, then a relaxed evening in Naama Bay.

All our tours include hotel pickup, and you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before departure. Compare everything on the price list.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sharm El Sheikh warm in winter?

Yes, by day. From December to February, daytime temperatures average around 22–23 °C with plenty of sunshine, but nights drop to around 13–15 °C and the desert feels cold after sunset.

Can you swim in the sea in Sharm El Sheikh in winter?

Yes. The Red Sea averages around 21–23 °C from December to February. Many people snorkel in a rash vest or a thin wetsuit to stay warm.

What should I wear on a desert safari in winter?

Layers: a T-shirt for the afternoon, plus a warm fleece or jacket and long trousers for the evening, when the desert cools quickly. A scarf and sunglasses protect from dust.

What are the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh in winter?

Winter is ideal for long day trips such as the Colored Canyon and Dahab, for desert safaris at any time of day, and for snorkeling trips to Ras Mohammed and Tiran Island, which run all year.