Getting To and From Egypt
By AirMost visitors to Egypt will get there by air. A huge number of airlines operate in and out of Cairo and Egyptair offers international flights in and out of Luxor and Hurghada. Charter flights from London also fly in to Cairo, Luxor and Hurghada.
By Land
Unless you are visiting Libya or Sudan it is most likely that travelers will be coming overland from Israel. There are some bus services from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem to Cairo. You can take a bus to either border, cross by foot and then take local transport again. Taba is the main border open to tourists. Check with the embassy locally when you arrive for updated information.
By Sea/Lake
There are ferries operating from Greece and Cyprus to Alexandria. You can also catch a ferry to Jordan (Aqaba) and Sudan (Wadi Halfa). TourEgypt has schedules and contact information.
Getting Around Egypt
If you are traveling with a tour group then most of your transport will be arranged for you. If you have a few days on your own, or are planning to travel independently there are many options to get around the country.
By Bus
Buses range from luxury to overcrowded and grim! But they service all towns in Egypt. In general, the faster more luxurious buses will run between major cities and tourist destinations. Tickets can be bought at bus stations and often on the bus itself. Ask Aladdin has the main bus routes and schedules listed as well as prices.
By Train
Trains are an excellent way to travel within Egypt. There are air-conditioned express trains as well as ordinary trains which tend to be a bit slower and less likely to have AC. Note that trains do not go to the Sinai or the main beach destinations of Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh. For schedules and booking information see The Man in Seat Sixty-One.
By Air
If you have little time but a lot of money, flying within Egypt is your best option. Egyptair flies daily from Cairo to Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and Hurghada and twice a week to Kharga Oasis. Air Sinai (a subsidiary of Egyptair)flies from Cairo to Hurghada, Al Arish, Taba, Sharm el Sheikh, St. Catherine's Monastery, El Tor, and to Tel Aviv, Israel. Your local travel agent should be able to book these flights for you or go directly through Egyptair. Egyptair has booking offices throughout Egypt if you decide to buy a ticket while you are visiting. Book well in advance during peak season.
By Car
The major car rental agencies are represented in Egypt; Hertz, Avis, Budget and Europecar. Driving in Egypt, especially the cities can be a bit hazardous to say the least. Congestion is a huge problem and very few drivers actually follow any traffic rules, including stopping for a red traffic light. Take a taxi and enjoy the wild ride from the back seat! Tips on how to hail taxi's, bargain for a reasonable rate and tipping procedures can be found here.
By Nile
Cruises:
The romance of a Nile Cruise has sustained an industry of well over 200 steamers. A Nile Cruise used to be the only way tourists could get to the tombs and temples of Luxor. You can get excellent package deals usually ranging from 4-7 days. Get as much information as you can about the vessel before you go. If you are booking in Egypt, try and see the vessel before you purchase your ticket. Most boats start off in Luxor, sailing down to Aswan, with stops at Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo.
Feluccas:
Feluccas are lateen-sailed boats which have been used on the Nile since antiquity. Cruising on a Felucca at sunset is one of the pleasures of visiting Egypt. You can also opt for longer sails, heading down river from Aswan is the most popular route. Packages are available but most tourists organize their own trips. Be choosy about your Felucca captain!
