CAIRO - GETTING AROUND

By Metro

The Metro system in Cairo provides visitors with a fast, efficient and cheap way to get around the city. There are three lines that operate from 5 am until 1 am daily (2 am during Ramadan) with trains departing every 15 minutes, tickets cost approximately 2LE for a single, one-way journey and can be purchased from ticket booths located in the stations. The three lines run vertically and horizontally across the entire city and will eventually link with the airport, the stations are easily identified by a red `M` sign. Visit www.UrbanRail.net for more information.

By Taxi

Taxis are one of the most convenient ways to get around in the city of Cairo, you can find taxis outside the metro and train stations, at taxi stand throughout the city or call and order one by phone. There are black and white cabs in the city and most drivers are known to not speak English. White taxis are newer and more comfortable than the older taxis and fares can be negotiated without using the meter. Yellow cabs are known as the city cabs and normally are hired by calling to make a reservation, however, you can hail one from the street. Fares start around 3.50LE and go up based on the total distance traveled. Be sure to have change handy when taking a cab as the drivers are notorious for not having change if you pay larger bills.

Uber and Careem can be used in the city and there is no need to negotiate the price as everything is done through your smartphone. Simply download the apps, put in your pick up location and drop off destination and pay with a credit card through the app.

By Bus

Buses in the city are a cheap way to travel, however, they can be very crowded, with routes that are hard to navigate and pickpockets are common, which do not make them a great option for visitors. The cost is around 2LE per ticket. The best buses to look for are the Cairo Transit Authority (CTA), which serve most of the major hubs including the Pyramids of Giza and the Cairo International Airport. Most information on the buses is in Arabic and there are no bus numbers or routes to follow. You can catch a bus at one of the bus stations in the city or even hail one from the street.

By Foot

Getting around Cairo on foot is a great way to see many of the city`s ancient attractions including the Pyramids at Giza and the Sphinx. There are many narrow cobblestone alleyways in the city that are great to explore on foot, strolling through Old Cairo and The Citadel are both great experiences filled with many things to discover.

By Boat

Cruising along the Nile River is a great way to see the city from the water or enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional `felucca` (wooden boats). Take a River Boat Dinner Cruise along the river for an enjoyable evening filled with food and entertainment. A felucca ride will cost around 60-80LE for a one hour journey.