How to get around Egypt

If you are looking for an authentic and affordable experience, public transportation is an excellent option for getting around Egypt. Although they can be crowded and not always punctual, they offer you total immersion in the local culture. Remember to bring exact change and be prepared for a trip full of adventures.

Local Buses
In major cities like Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor, city buses are a common mode of transport. They are usually crowded and can be challenging for non-Arabic speakers, but they offer a very affordable way to get around. Microbuses are smaller than standard buses and operate on fixed routes within cities and between nearby towns. They are faster and more frequent than larger buses but can be cramped.

Intercity Buses
Companies like the Upper Egypt Bus Company and West & Mid Delta Bus Company run services connecting major cities and towns. These buses are relatively comfortable and have fixed schedules. There are also private companies such as Go Bus, Super Jet, and Blue Bus offering more comfortable and reliable services with options like air conditioning, onboard entertainment, and rest stops. They are a bit more expensive but provide a higher level of comfort and convenience.

Taxis are a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get around Egypt, especially in the cities. In Cairo and Alexandria, I recommend looking for the white metered taxis and before getting in, make sure the driver activates the meter or agrees on a fixed price. White taxis are the most common and modern ones There are some other taxis, usually older vehicles that do not have meters, you will need to negotiate the price in advance for these.

You can also use applications like Uber or Careem, to avoid unwanted surprises, these applications are popular in large Egyptian cities. Uber was my preferred method in Egypt, as it was easy to coordinate times & directions. A lot of tours also include transportation from major cities like Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Aswan, so it might be wise to confirm this before hiring a driver.

Traveling by train is a great way to get around Egypt if you plan to travel long distances. The main line connects Alexandria, Cairo and Luxor with Aswan and is, without a doubt, an elegant way to get around the country. Remember to book in advance, especially in high season.

For the express trains, you have the option of choosing between first and second class, these are the fasted and most comfortable ones. Express Night trains are especially popular among travelers, offering comfort and the opportunity to save on a night’s accommodation, traveling between Cairo to Luxor / Aswan.
Ordinary trains are slower, less expensive, and primarily used by locals. They can be quite crowded and lack air conditioning.

If you want to go a long way in a short time, domestic flights are the best way to explore Egypt. There are tourist agencies that regularly offer tours between major cities and tourist attractions. It’s definitely one of the priciest options, but it makes up for it in terms of savings. I had a tight schedule, so I took a flight from Cairo to Luxor and came back the next day. A lot of tours also include the flight option, so it might be wise to double check to avoid double booking.

Traveling by cruise or sailing on the Nile River in Egypt offers a unique and enchanting way to explore the country’s ancient wonders and scenic landscapes. There are a couple options available:

Regular Cruises: There are a variety of cruises you can take in Egypt, depending on the level of comfort you are looking for and the route of your preference. There are 5, 4 and 3 star cruises, offering from basic amenities up to the highest level of comfort, with amenities such as spacious cabins, gourmet dining, swimming pools, spas, and entertainment options.
The routes include Luxor to Aswan and Cairo to Luxor.

Dahabiya Cruises: Traditional wooden sailing boats that offer a more intimate and relaxed experience. They usually accommodate fewer passengers and provide a more personalized service.

Traditional Feluccas: These are small, traditional wooden sailing boats without modern amenities. Felucca trips are more adventurous and offer a closer connection to the river and the environment. These are also available for shorter trips and can be rented by the hour. I did a short Felucca ride when in Luxor and it was incredible!

While it is possible to rent a car to get around Egypt, this is not the best option for most travelers. Traffic can be chaotic, Egypt has a lot of angry drivers and road signs are not always clear, especially if you don’t speak Arabic or don’t have a GPS available.

However, for those who enjoy road trips, this can be a fun experience as you can stop on famous lines and it offers the flexibility to explore the country at your own pace.. It is important to make sure you have an International Driving Permit.

International Companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Sixt have offices in major cities and airports, offering a range of vehicles and reliable service. There are also a lot of local and more affordable companies available.