Navigating Egypt’s Public Transportation: Metro, Microbuses, Taxis & Ride‑Hailing

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons / User Mohammed Said

From Cairo’s crowded streets to historic sites, understanding Egypt’s transport network saves time and money. Here’s your guide to metros, minibuses, taxis and ride‑hail apps.

1. Cairo Metro

The metro is the fastest way across Greater Cairo:

• Lines: Three lines (1 red, 2 green, 3 blue), connecting major hubs.
• Hours: 5 AM–11 PM; trains every 3–7 minutes.
• Fare: E£ 5–10 depending on distance; use rechargeable smart card.

Learn more: Cairo Metro (Wikipedia)

2. Microbuses & Minibuses

Local microbuses run across Cairo suburbs and nearby cities:

• Routes: Unmarked—ask locals for directions and fares.
• Fare: Typically E£ 3–7; pay exact cash to the driver.
• Tip: Sit near the front and call out stops in Arabic (“waqif hina” = stop here).

3. Taxis & Ride‑Hailing Apps

For door‑to‑door comfort:

• White Taxis: Metered; insist on using the meter (“ishtraf meter”).
• Uber & Careem: Widely used; fixed fares, credit‑card or cash payment.
• Safety: Verify license plate & driver name before boarding.

Apps: Uber • Careem

4. Intercity Buses & Trains

To Luxor, Aswan or Alexandria:

• Buses: GoBus, SuperJet offer AC coaches; book online.
• Trains: Egyptian National Railways—1st/2nd/3rd class; sleeper cabins on overnight trains.

Book: Egyptian NR (official site)

5. Safety & Tips

• Keep valuables close; pickpocketing in crowded stations.
• Avoid microbuses after dark—use Uber/Careem instead.
• Learn key phrases in Arabic for stops and emergencies.