Transportation
Means of Transportation
There are several means of transportation in Egypt. Riding public transportation is the best way to get to know the city and its people.
Also note that although this is a Muslim country, men and women are often very close together in public transportation. In buses, you can always ask for some rearrangement so that you can sit next to someone of the same gender. People are very accommodating to, and respectful of, this request.
Microbus: These are privately owned vehicles that work like buses. They are either blue/white colored minivans or small bus-type vehicles. They will have someone leaning out the door yelling the final destination. Rates vary according to how far you need to go, but most charge 1 LE for traveling the entire route. These are very convenient, frequent and inexpensive, but you must be cautious. Microbus drivers are notorious for dangerous driving. When choosing a microbus, choose the small buses, as opposed to the minivans, as they tend to be safer. (Note: you do not receive a ‘ticket’ upon paying.)
Buses: There are two types: air conditioned and public. They travel the same routes, are numbered the same way, and are marked with their destinations. The AC buses are 2 pounds, clean and comfortable, although the AC is not always working. The public buses are 50 piastres (1/2 of a pound) to 1 LE. Both give the passenger a ticket, which they must hold on to for the entire trip. They are jam packed and not comfortable at all. They are not recommended especially for women.
Taxi: This is obviously the most expensive form of transportation, but you also get door-to-door service and a guarantee that you will not be ‘smushed’ next to someone else. Know the going rate for a particular trip before you go by asking a friend. For long trips, set a price before you go to avoid an argument.
Sample taxi prices from Al-Diwan:
Tahrir: 15
Ramses: 10-12
Al Maza in Heliopolis: 10
Sultan Hassan masjid: 15
Khan al-Khalili/Al-Azhar: 15
Mohandiseen: 20-25
Carrefoure: 15
Maadi: 20
Overground Metro: This is like what is known as a ‘tram’ in some places. They are very convenient for long distances if you know the right routes. They are very cheap (25 piastres) and usually less crowded than buses or microbuses. They are, however, less frequent and slower. The passenger is given a ticket, which they must hold on to for the entire trip. This is the tram that runs along Mustafa Nahas. Some of the more useful routes are the ones to Heliopolis and to Ramses. Note: One of the cars is usually reserved for only women.
THE Metro: This is mostly in downtown Cairo, and that stations are marked with a big red ‘M.’ This is mostly underground and very modern. You buy a ticket from the ticket booth, and the cost is according to the distance of travel. An average trip costs 50 piastres to 1 LE. (If you lose your ticket, you will have to pay a fine.) This is very clean, fast and convenient, though very crowded during commute hours. One or two of the cars are usually reserved for women.
Train: This is good for long distances, including Alexandria and Upper Egypt. If you want a reserved seat, book second-class or first (second is excellent; first is more comfortable for overnight trips). As an example of ticket prices, the two-hour train to Alexandria (Turbini or Fransi) is 25 pounds one way. The best place to buy a ticket ahead of time (up to a week) is the Central Maza in Heliopolis. You can also book a ticket over the phone, or at the Ramses train station. If you board the train without a ticket, you are not necessarily entitled to a seat and you may have to pay additional money.
Long Distance Bus: This is often the best way to travel to almost all destinations in Egypt (Sinai, Suez Canal, Alexandria, North Coast). Ticket prices are low, the service is timely and quick, and the buses are in good condition. Also, some of the bus stations are closer to Nasr City than the train station. There are several bus companies, each serving a different region of Egypt. You can buy your ticket from the station.
Capital Taxi Cab:
Cairo has recently started the Capital Taxi Cab service which are yellow in color and distinct from the typical black and white taxis found in Cairo. They are equipped with a wireless system that enables the drivers to receive orders from the "base" on where to go next. The taxis are air-conditioned, comfortable and come with a digital metre that accurately measures the distance travelled and fare. They use a newly adjusted fare system. The starting fare is from 3:50 pounds (EGP) and an additional 1 pound for every kilometre after that. For a charge of 7:50 pounds, you can call the capital taxi cab to come to your place.
Even though this may be a bit more expensive than catching a cab yourself, it is better for foreigners because of the fixed pricing. This will help you to get rid of the problem people ,especially foreigners, have with drivers on prices. Diwan highly encourages its to use this service.
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