Getting around Egypt
Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances in Egypt. EgyptAir and its subsidiary Air Cairo operate regular services linking Cairo with Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and Alexandria. Flights are frequent, relatively affordable and save considerable time compared to road or rail travel.
Egypt has an extensive road network connecting all major cities and tourist destinations. Highways link Cairo with Alexandria, the Red Sea coast, Upper Egypt and the Sinai Peninsula. While distances are long, roads are generally in reasonable condition.
Main highways are paved and well-maintained. Secondary roads vary in quality, particularly in rural areas and desert regions. Night driving is not recommended due to poor lighting, animals on the road and variable driving standards.
Roads are classified into highways, primary roads and local roads. Signage is usually in Arabic, with English appearing on major tourist routes. Navigation apps are useful but should not replace local advice.
Car hire is available in major cities and airports, though most visitors prefer hiring a car with a driver. Traffic in Cairo is dense and chaotic, and local driving habits can be challenging for foreign drivers. An international driving permit is required.
Taxis are widely available in cities. In Cairo and Alexandria, ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem are popular and often more reliable than street taxis. Traditional taxis may not use meters, so fares should be agreed in advance.
Cycling can be enjoyable in quieter areas such as Luxor, Aswan and some oasis towns. Bike rentals are available in tourist centres.
Long-distance buses connect Cairo with Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. Services range from basic to comfortable, with air-conditioning and reserved seating. Coaches are generally safe and affordable.
Speed limits are typically 60 km/h in towns and up to 100 km/h on highways. Seat belts are mandatory, and drink-driving laws are strict, though enforcement varies.
There is no nationwide breakdown service. Travellers should rely on car-hire providers or local assistance.
Foreign drivers must carry a valid international driving permit and passport at all times.
Cairo has a modern metro system that is fast, cheap and efficient, making it one of the best ways to avoid traffic congestion. It connects key areas of the city, including Ramses Station, Tahrir Square and Giza. Women-only carriages are available on all lines.
Taxis are widely available in all major cities. In Cairo and Alexandria, ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem are reliable, transparent and often preferred by visitors. Traditional black-and-white taxis are still common but may not use meters, so fares should be agreed in advance. In Upper Egypt, taxis are fewer and tend to operate on fixed routes or as shared services.
Minibuses and microbuses are the most common form of transport for locals, operating along informal routes and stopping on request. They are inexpensive but can be confusing for visitors, as routes are rarely displayed and destinations are often shouted by drivers or conductors. They are best used with local guidance.
In smaller towns such as Luxor, Aswan and many Delta cities, tuk-tuks are widely used for short trips. Fares are low but always negotiable, and prices should be agreed before setting off.
Egypt has one of the oldest rail networks in Africa. Trains connect Cairo with Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan and other Nile Valley cities. Services range from basic to modern air-conditioned trains. Sleeping trains operate overnight between Cairo and Upper Egypt.
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