11 Types of transportation in Egypt: The best ways to fet around

Have you ever asked yourself how the Egyptians travel to the congested cities? No, not on camels! The first thing that comes to mind when you consider transportation in Egypt is the desert and camels walking in the desert, or overcrowded streets in Cairo with cars and donkey carts. Although these classic forms of transport indeed exist, there is a rich and developing transport scene in Egypt that will come as a surprise. In this paper, we will dig in some of the common means of transport in Egypt that you are most likely not aware of.

How to get around in Egypt?

In matters of transport in Egypt and more so among tourists, it is important to know the primary means of public transportation to ensure that the journey is smooth and pleasant.

Egypt has three transport modes which are linking towns: land, water and air.

Having numerous ways of transport, like a metro, bus, river bus, etc., you can travel to one place, to another one without any difficulties. Others of these means of transport such as the River Bus or Nile Taxi are more accessible and enjoyable to the tourists.

Land transportation

Egypt has numerous highways which link her to Africa and Asia. Cairo is connected to other cities by a developing network of roads such as the Ring Road, Alexandria Desert Road and Geish Road. Egyptian roads are generally advantageous with different benefits such as well-metaled ways and pliable and flat landscape. In Egypt, the road transport has a number of options which include:

Railways

The Middle East and Africa's oldest railroad system is the Egyptian railway system. It is particularly well-suited for extended journeys, as shorter trips, like traveling from Cairo to Alexandria, tend to be less expedient and less comfortable in comparison.

The Middle East and Africa's oldest railroad system is the Egyptian railway system

Metro

The only complete metro system in Africa is the Cairo Metro in Egypt. There are now two active lines in the system, and there are plans in place for a third. The National Authority for Tunnels is in charge of the metro. There is a robust subway system in the city that operates on a regular basis.

Read more: Top 10 famous foods in Egypt you need to try

Microbuses

Microbuses are renowned for moving at a rapid pace. Also, they are particularly common in Cairo and all other governorates. They are smaller than buses, you must seat because there is nowhere to stand, which makes microbuses a better mode of transportation than buses, the fee varies depending on the distance traveled, and there is no ticket. As you can discover microbuses at certain stations and stop them on the road, they are simple to access.

Buses

What is the main transportation in Egypt? How to get around in Egypt? Maybe, the answer is buses. In Egypt, buses are among the most often used forms of transportation. In addition to a vast number of governorates including Alexandria, Port Said, Ismailia, Sharm El Sheikh, and North and South Sinai, they are extensively dispersed in Cairo and Giza.

Bus is not the most effective mode of commuting due to the slowness caused by making various stops, heavy traffic and difficulty in acquiring a seat during rush hours. However, they are considered to be one of the cheapest methods of transport available and are always readily available. Take a ticket when you have paid the fare so that you can be able to prove that you have paid. The buses are marked with a unique line and a unique number written in Arabic on the front side at the upper part of the driver.

Buses - Waiting for tourists near the Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo, Egypt

Taxis

Taxis are a preferred mode of public transportation in Egypt because they are faster and more relaxed. However, they are more expensive than other options for local city transport, and you risk being tricked on the fare occasionally; therefore, it is preferable to urge the driver to use the meter or negotiate the fare with him.

Although there are no taxi stands, you can stop any taxi that is driving by. It is important to note here the availability of Uber and Careem, two private automobile services that can be booked using a specific app from your mobile shop. They are superior to a regular taxi since the fare is determined using a certain system, and you know it before you get in the car. These autos are also quicker and more practical. Because the drivers utilize GPS to determine the best and quickest route, you'll never get lost with them.

Tuk Tuk

Tuk Tuk is one of Egypt’s newest means of transportation, particularly in areas with minimal public transport. They are found in many governorates and many areas, and they are common as local transport in towns and small villages. Tuk Tuk has advantages; for example, the fare is inexpensive, and it can easily go on small and crowded routes. It also has disadvantages; for instance, it is considered unsafe, and it does not transport you to popular destinations but only within the boundaries of small areas.

Tuk Tuk is one of Egypt’s newest means of transportation

Waterway transportation

Explore waterway transportation, an efficient and scenic travel option connecting cities, ports, and attractions via rivers, canals, and seas.

River bus

Despite the fact that it's slower, a river bus is still preferable to a traffic gridlock. It's a fantastic option if you wish to travel to places along rivers, like the old Coptic neighborhood in Old Cairo. Every 15 minutes, it travels past Cairo University and the Giza Zoo from the Maspero neighborhood in central Cairo to Giza, showcasing the best features of Egyptian transport.

Airway transportation

 Flying can only be recommended in most instances in case you are on a tight schedule and also when you want to take scenic flights since the Nile valley and Sinai is very scenic when you view it in the air. Nevertheless, the most convenient means of transport when going through Aswan to Abu Simbel is an airplane. Egypt Air is located in the site, egyptair.com and it serves flights between different destinations in Egypt, such as Cairo, Alexandria, Mersa Matrouh, Port Said, Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Assyut, Sohag, Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. There are also routes between Aswan and Luxor and Aswan and Abu Simbel that they provide.

Early booking is possible when possible since prices go up as the planes get booked. During the winter it is better to have flight reservations between Cairo and Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, or Sharm at least an hour earlier. Contrify once again 72 hours prior to departure since overbooking is common.

Transportation in Egypt for tourists

When visiting Egypt, visitors should select a mode of transportation that will allow them to see the country's famous attractions. For instance, they can take the river bus, which will take them to Old Cairo's famous Coptic neighborhood. The view of the Nile makes it a lovely mode of transportation. Additionally, there are some means of useful transportation in Egypt for tourists, such as:

Carriages

Horse-drawn carriages are favored for sightseeing despite being slower. Travelers can explore distant cities and view provincial cities by using carriages as a mode of transportation. They often have the ability to travel where the taxi cannot, notwithstanding their delay. The majority of its use today is for sightseeing, particularly on holidays and special occasions. The Nile Corniche, Downtown, Zamalek, and Giza are the main locations where carriages may be found.

Horse-drawn carriages are favored for sightseeing despite being slower

Nile Taxis

The Nile taxi is another option for travelers who want to see the Nile and save time. Compared to the river bus, they are faster. There are two types of Nile taxis: those that you must wait for until enough passengers have boarded and those that you may reserve in advance for a convenient time for you.

In conclusion, Egypt offers an array of transportation choices to suit every traveler's tastes. Whether you favor the convenience of public transportation in the bustling cities or are drawn to more traditional adventures like cruises and camel rides, Egypt has something for everyone. As you plan your visit to this captivating country, remember that obtaining an Egypt e-visa is an essential step in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. Be sure to apply for your visa well in advance or contact Egypt Immigration Services, and prepare to immerse yourself in the wonders of Egypt's transportation and cultural treasures. Safe travels!