What January feels like in Cairo
January is the coldest stretch of winter in Cairo. Mild afternoons make it easy to spend hours outdoors. After dark the temperature drops clearly: nights are cool. Moderate humidity keeps the air pleasant.
Rain in Cairo in January
Dry weather dominates, and an umbrella can mostly stay packed. Most wet days bring only light rain — about 3.8 mm (0.1 in) on a typical rainy day — the kind of drizzle or short shower that rarely stops plans for long. The yearly figure is similar, around 4.4 mm per wet day. It is among the three wettest months of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in January
On 15 January the sun rises at about 6:52 am and sets around 5:16 pm local time, giving 10 h 24 min of daylight. Since mid-December the day has gained 11 min. The sun is out for roughly 90% of those daylight hours, so skies are mostly clear.
How January compares to the rest of the year
January is the coolest month of the year in Cairo. Compared with December, afternoons are 1.8°C (3.2°F) cooler, with 1 mm more rain. This is the low point, and February starts to warm up. By February, typical highs are 21.3°C (70.3°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — comfortable enough to explore on foot all day.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — comfortable for long walks and picnics.
Tips for visiting Cairo in January
Versatile Layers
Mornings and evenings are cooler than midday, so dress in layers.
Sunglasses
Plenty of sun, so bring sunglasses and a cap.
Quick questions
How warm is Cairo in January?
Afternoons average 19.7°C (67.5°F) and nights about 8.7°C (47.7°F) — mild by most people's standards. It is the coolest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Cairo in January?
No — January is one of the drier times, with about 1 rainy days and 4 mm in total.
What should I wear in Cairo in January?
The numbers point to versatile layers and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is January or February better for visiting Cairo?
February, narrowly: it ranks #3 of 12 among Cairo's months, against #4 for the other. February is warmer.