How to Get Around Egypt: Your Transportation Guide

With so many ancient wonders scattered across land, figuring out how to get around Egypt can be a challenge. This guide explains all major transport options in Egypt, from flights and sleeper trains to Nile cruises and private drivers. So, you can choose the best way to travel between cities like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, the Red Sea, and beyond.

By Air: Easiest & Fastest Way

Egypt's extensive network of over 20 airports provides convenient travel between major tourist destinations, including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, Abu Simbel, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. This offers the easiest and fastest way to get around Egypt, especially for long-distance travel, such as from Cairo to Aswan.

Booking your flights online often yields the best deals, especially when planning ahead. For more accurate pricing in Egyptian Pounds, consider changing your website location to Egypt. This can result in significantly lower fares compared to prices listed for locations outside the country.

To ensure a peaceful flight, bring earplugs to block out in-flight announcements and music videos.

By Cruise: Most Leisure Way

Cruise on the Nile River

The Nile River, the lifeblood of ancient Egypt, flows from south to north across the country. Cruising along this majestic waterway offers a leisurely and immersive way to discover the country's rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

It is the most popular way to travel between Luxor and Aswan. With four or five days, the cruise will take you to explore iconic sites along the river bank, like the Temple of Kom Ombo, the Temple of Edfu, the Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut's Temple, Luxor Temple, and Karnak Temples. That is why most first-timers to Egypt choose to go on a Nile cruise. 

While the price may seem high at first, keep in mind that Nile cruises include daily meals, along with onboard performances and parties. It's actually one of the most cost-effective and enjoyable ways to travel between Aswan and Luxor. For a quieter alternative, some cruises also sail Lake Nasser (between Abu Simbel and Aswan), perfect for travelers interested in Nubian culture and a more tranquil atmosphere.

By Car: Most Flexible Way

Traveling by car around Egypt offers the freedom to explore both popular and remote destinations at your own pace. From scenic drives along the Nile River and Red Sea coast to visiting hidden gems like Siwa Oasis, having a car provides access to more diverse and less touristy areas.

However, driving in Egypt comes with challenges, especially in cities like Cairo where traffic can be intense. Road conditions vary, and there are frequent police checkpoints on highways. For longer trips, especially into desert areas, having a reliable vehicle, sufficient supplies, and local guidance is essential.

So we highly recommend that you take a private car with a seasoned driver. Thus, you can just enjoy your trip without navigating unfamiliar roads and driving customs.

By Train: Budget Friendly & Authentic

Egypt's railway system connects the Nile Valley, Delta, and Canal Zone. It means you can take a scenic journey from Cairo to Alexandria, Luxor, or Aswan by train. While train journeys can be slower and involve frequent stops, they offer an authentic experience at a lower cost than flying.

Two main train categories up to your choice: express and ordinary. Express trains offer air-conditioned compartments, reserved seating, and refreshments. They are divided into VIP and Spanish categories. Ordinary trains are generally slower, unreserved, and often lack air conditioning. For a luxurious experience, consider the deluxe sleeper train between Cairo and Upper Egypt.

By Bus: Cheap, but Not Ideal

Traveling by bus in Egypt is a cheaper way to get around. Buses are usually comfortable and have air conditioning, making them a good option for longer trips, like traveling between Cairo and Luxor or along the Red Sea coast.

But there are some downsides to taking the bus. While main routes are well covered, getting to more remote places, like desert oases or smaller towns, might need extra transfers or other transportation. Travel can also take a long time because Egypt is big, and buses often stop many times, which makes the trip longer. Bus schedules can also be unreliable, so it's important to check ahead. If you have a bigger budget, using a private car or flying is usually a better option.

Best Ways to Get Between Major Cities

Cairo to Luxor - By Air

Distance from Cairo to Luxor is about 650 kilometers. So, the fastest and easiest way to reach Luxor from Cairo is by plane, which takes about 1 hour. Alternatively, you can take a train, which takes around 10 hours.

Cairo to Aswan - By Air

The distance from Cairo to Aswan is about 685 kilometers. Our most recommended way to get between these two cities is flying, a journey of about 1.5 hours.

Cairo to Hurghada/Sharm El Sheikh - By Air

The quickest way to reach Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh from Cairo is by air, with flights taking around 1 hour. These Red Sea cities are often the final stops on an Egypt tour. Both have international airports, but flights mainly connect to the UK and parts of Europe. Long-haul international flights to North America or Australia are limited, so in most cases, you will need to return to Cairo after a Red Sea stay to connect with your homebound flights.

Aswan to Luxor - By Nile Cruise

A 3-night Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor is the most popular and relaxing way to see the highlights along the riverbanks. That said, traveling by car is also very convenient. The distance is only about 240 kilometers and takes roughly 3 hours by road. If you depart Aswan in the morning, you can visit Kom Ombo and Edfu en route and arrive in Luxor by late afternoon.

Luxor to Hurghada - By Car

Hurghada is about 316 kilometers from Luxor. Traveling by road is the most recommended option and usually takes around 3.5 to 4 hours.

Aswan to Abu Simbel - By Car

The best way to reach Abu Simbel is by private car. The site is quite remote, and the drive from Aswan takes about 3.5 to 4 hours each way. Accommodation options in Abu Simbel are limited and fairly basic, so many travelers choose to visit it as a day trip from Aswan and return for overnight stays.

Cairo to Alexandria - By Car

Alexandria is not that far from Cairo, the distance is about 200 kilometers. To get from Cairo to Alexandria, we more recommend to take a car, which takes 2 - 3 hours.

How to Get from Cairo International Airport to Downtown?

Cairo International Airport is the gateway to Egypt and has nonstop flights to major world cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. It allows visitors to fly directly to Cairo from New York, London, Paris, Toronto, Berlin, and more cities.

Then, how to get to the city center or some attractions from Cairo International Airport? Here are some options:

Pre-arranged Private Shuttle Service

A door-to-door service via pre-arranged private shuttle is the best way to get to the city center, especially for a group or family. Most airport transfers cost between USD 15–20 each way. The service not only runs to Cairo city center but also to Heliopolis, Nasr City, Giza, Mohandessin, Zamalek, Maadi, and the Pyramids area. If you book your Egypt tour with Odynovo, we will arrange for a private car with a driver to pick you up.

Taxi or Uber

A taxi ride from Cairo International Airport (CAI), you can get to Old Cairo in 30-40 minutes, the Giza Pyramids in 50-70 minutes, and New Cairo in 15-20 minutes, maybe longer during the peak time.

The white or yellow cabs have meters, and the cost to downtown Egypt is around USD 4 (EGP 200). The old black-and-white taxis usually do not have a meter, so you need to negotiate with drivers before travelling, and they are usually not air-conditioned.

Bus

The public bus from Cairo Airport to the city center is a budget-friendly option for tourists. You can go to the bus station located in the parking area in front of Terminal 1 and take the city buses downtown. If you arrive at Terminals 2 and 3, then you should take a shuttle bus to Terminal 1 first.

Tips for Getting Around Egypt

Be Cautious with Traffic

Traffic in big cities, especially Cairo, can be chaotic and congested. Especially if you plan to rent a car and drive by yourself, be prepared for aggressive driving styles and unclear road markings.

Avoid rush hours, as traffic jams can significantly increase travel time.

Use Public Transport Carefully

Cairo Metro: This is the fastest way to get around Cairo during peak times. It's affordable and covers many major areas, though it can be crowded.

Buses and Minibuses: Public buses are very cheap, but not a tourist-friendly option. The routes can be confusing, and they are often crowded.

Hiring a Car and Driver

If you want more flexibility without the hassle of driving yourself, consider hiring a car with a driver. This is common and allows you to travel in comfort, particularly to more remote locations like the desert or small towns.

Check Schedules and Book in Advance

For flights, trains, and buses, it's wise to check schedules ahead of time and book early, especially during peak travel seasons.

Take Some Small Cashes

It's a good idea to carry some small cash in Egypt, as some local transport, like taxis do not accept credit cards.

Travel Safely in Remote Areas

If you're traveling to desert regions or oases like Siwa, make sure to travel with a guide or driver who knows the area. Always bring enough water, and check weather conditions in advance.

Best Way to Get Around Egypt: With Odynovo

You may be dazzled by the various traveling transports and still don't know how to organize it. Odynovo can customize a hassle-free Egypt tour for you, and it's up to you to decide where to go and stay, what to see and do. Just tell us your interests and needs, and we will offer you a tailor-made plan within 24 hours.