Winter is one of the best seasons to visit Sharm. While Europe is dealing with slushy weather, it’s +23°C here, sunny, and the sea is perfect for swimming. Let’s take a look at what to expect and how to plan a trip during the winter months.
Yes, winter is the high season for Sharm, not the off-season. People come here precisely because it’s warm here when it’s cold at home. December–January is the peak tourist season, especially for visitors from Europe and Russia. Expect higher prices and be sure to book in advance.
Average daytime temperature: December–January +22–26°C; nighttime temperature: +14–17°C. There is virtually no rain—annual precipitation totals less than 10 mm. There are 7–9 hours of sunshine per day. The wind in the Strait of Tiran can be strong—a plus for windsurfing, but sometimes uncomfortable for beach vacations.
Water temperature: December–January 22–24°C—lower than in summer (28–29°C), but significantly warmer than the Mediterranean or Black Sea, even during the summer months.
Swim and snorkel. The water is 22–24°C—warm enough for swimming, though a wetsuit is more comfortable for extended dives.
Scuba diving. Winter is a great time for scuba diving: visibility is excellent, there are plenty of fish, and the air isn’t too hot. It’s actually easier to find spots on a dive tour during the winter months.
Desert excursions. Winter is the ideal time for quad bike rides, camel treks, and hikes up Mount Sinai: +20–30°C during the day, with no sweltering heat.
Sunrise on Mount Sinai. December through February is one of the best times for a night ascent, although temperatures at the summit can drop to 0°C at night—so warm clothing is a must.
December–January is peak season: hotels and tours are 20–40% more expensive than in the summer. Prices peak during the holidays (Catholic and Orthodox Christmas, New Year’s). February is a bit quieter with the same weather.
An interesting weather note: in winter, brief fogs are possible over the Sinai in the early morning—this is rare, but it makes sunrise on Mount Sinai even more atmospheric. There are no severe storms in the Gulf of Aqaba in winter—the sea is calm.
Can you swim in Sharm in January?
Yes, the water is 22–23°C. You can swim comfortably for 20–30 minutes without a wetsuit; for snorkeling and diving, it’s best to bring a lightweight wetsuit.
Is it cold in Sharm in the winter?
During the day, it’s +22–26°C—warm. At night, it’s +14–17°C—cool, so you’ll need a light jacket.
When is the peak tourist season in Sharm?
October–April, with the peak in December–January, especially during the holiday weeks.
Do you need warm clothes in Sinai in the winter?
Definitely: at the summit of Mount Sinai, temperatures can drop to around 0°C at night, even in December.
Is it worth visiting Sharm in the summer instead of the winter?
It’s cheaper in the summer and there are fewer tourists, but air temperatures of +40°C make a beach vacation practically impossible during the day. Winter is much more comfortable for most activities.
