Cairo Weather in January
Egypt · Hot Desert climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
January in Cairo sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 9.2°C (48.6°F) to a high of 20.1°C (68.2°F), with a mean of 14.3°C (57.7°F). Compared to the annual average of 23.5°C (74.3°F), this month is 9.2°C cooler than the yearly norm. This is the coldest month of the year, with average lows of 9.2°C (48.6°F). Precipitation averages 4.2mm, making it approximately 1.0mm wetter than the monthly average of 3.0mm. The city receives an average of 9.2 hours of sunshine per day during January, with relative humidity averaging 60.2%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 15.9 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a coldest month of the year experience in Cairo, with wetter-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Cairo's heat is sneaky — the dry air makes 35°C feel 'manageable' until you realize you've stopped sweating. I walked the Pyramids in April at 33°C and didn't realize I was dehydrated until dizzy. Pack linen, a wide hat, and 2 liters of water minimum, March-October. The sweet spots are December-February: 18°C, low humidity, manageable sun. Skip July-August entirely unless you're AC-bound; 36°C with dust storms (khamsin) is brutal. March and November are shoulder gems: 22-26°C, fewer tourists. Always carry a scarf — useful for sun, dust, and entering mosques.
January vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | December | January | February |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 16.6°C (61.9°F) | 14.3°C (57.7°F) | 14.9°C (58.8°F) |
| Rainfall | 6.2mm | 4.2mm | 9.0mm |
| Sunshine | 9.2 hrs | 9.2 hrs | 9.0 hrs |
| Humidity | 61.6% | 60.2% | 59.5% |
| Wind | 14.4 km/h | 15.9 km/h | 16.4 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 4.0 | 5.6 | 6.2 |
Seasonal Context
January falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Cairo in January, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Cairo in January?
The average temperature in Cairo during January ranges from 9.2°C (48.6°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F), with a mean of 14.3°C (57.7°F).
How much does it rain in Cairo in January?
Cairo receives an average of 4.2mm of precipitation in January, spread across approximately 5.6 rainy days.
What should I pack for Cairo in January?
Based on January weather data, pack warm layers, a medium jacket, and waterproof outerwear.
Is January a good time to visit Cairo?
January is a cooler month, suitable for travelers who prefer mild weather and fewer crowds. Pack warm layers and enjoy indoor attractions.
Other Months for Cairo
Cities with Similar January Climate (Hot Desert)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 30.04°, 31.24°. Timezone: Africa/Cairo. Last updated: 2026-07-30.