Complete Guide to Transportation in Egypt: Airport Transfers, Ride-Hailing Apps, and Nile River Cruises
Transport Guide
2026-10-03
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For getting around Cairo, Uber is the most hassle-free option. For longer distances, planes and trains are the main options, while Nile River cruises between Aswan and Luxor operate as a unique system all their own. This guide covers it all.
Arrival and Getting into Town
| Airport | City | Getting into Town |
|---|
| Cairo International Airport (CAI) | Cairo | Uber/Careem takes about 30–60 minutes, or take the airport bus |
| Luxor International Airport (LXR) | Luxor | Taxi takes about 15–20 minutes |
| Aswan International Airport (ASW) | Aswan | Taxi takes about 20–30 minutes |
| Hurghada International Airport (HRG) | Hurghada | Taxi takes about 15 minutes |
Local Transportation
- Uber and Careem: Highly recommended in Cairo and Alexandria, with transparent pricing and no haggling.
- Taxis: White taxis often use meters, but roadside cabs usually require negotiating the fare in advance.
- Metro: Cairo’s metro is inexpensive and covers key parts of the city, though it can be crowded and has limited lines.
Inter-city Transportation
- Flights: The routes between Cairo–Luxor and Cairo–Aswan are frequent, making them the fastest option for long distances.
- Trains: Overnight sleeper trains run from Cairo to Aswan, saving you daytime travel time.
- Nile River Cruises: The classic way to travel between Aswan and Luxor, often including meals, accommodation, and stops at key sites.
Tips
- Journey times between attractions can exceed expectations due to traffic—always allow buffer time.
- Drivers and guides who approach you directly at tourist sites may overcharge. Use apps or ask your hotel to arrange transport.
- Female travelers should consider going out with others at night and prioritize using ride-hailing apps.