Taxis in Egypt - Everything you need to know about getting around the land of the pharaohs
- Damian Brzeski
- 5 days ago
- 10 min read
Taxi in Egypt? It doesn't have to be a stressful experience. Although local realities can be surprising - from the lack of taxi meters to the need to haggle - all it takes is a little knowledge to navigate the land of the pharaohs efficiently and without unnecessary stress.
In this guide, you will find practical tips, prices, differences between taxi types and proven methods for safe transport - also from the airport. Find out how to drive like a local without being surprised.
Taxis in Egypt - what you need to know to get started
Traveling around Egypt can be exciting, but if you plan on getting around the country by taxi , it's worth knowing a few key rules beforehand.
There are many different means of transport in Egypt, but taxis are the most frequently chosen by tourists in Egypt - especially in popular destinations such as Hurghada , Cairo or Marsa Alam .
Taxis are available almost everywhere, from major cities to resorts to the airport . You can find them outside your hotel, on main streets and near tourist attractions. And while it may seem simple, using this means of transport requires knowing the local rules of the game.
First of all, you need to know that prices are not fixed. In some places there are taxi meters , in others you have to negotiate. Different types of vehicles, different quality of service, lack of consistent rates and frequent misunderstandings with drivers are just part of the Egyptian road reality.
Still, with a little preparation, taxi travel in Egypt can be quite convenient – and sometimes even indispensable.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything from how to find a driver , to booking with Kiwitaxi , to comparing taxi prices in Hurghada , Cairo , and Alexandria . Ready to jump in the backseat and explore Egypt like a local?
Types of Taxis in Egypt – Know the Differences Before You Get in
On Egyptian roads you will encounter different types of taxis. Not all of them are the same – they differ in comfort, price and operating principles. It is good to know them before you get into the first car that comes your way.
Private Taxis – Classics in New and Old Editions
This is the most common choice for tourists. In larger cities like Cairo and Alexandria, there are newer, white taxis with a taximeter – although not every driver will want to turn it on. Older, black or colored taxis (depending on the city), usually don't have working meters – then it is necessary to agree on a price in advance.
The entry fee is usually 5-8 EGP, and each kilometer costs 3-5 EGP. Remember that the price for tourists is often inflated, so haggling is almost a ritual.
Shuttle Taxis – Economical but Challenging
A form of public transport in Egypt , similar to a minibus, these taxis run on fixed routes, picking up passengers along the way.
Prices are very low – usually 1–3 EGP per person – but you need to know the route and speak Arabic, so it can be a challenge for tourists.
Shared taxis are popular mainly among the residents of Cairo and Alexandria, you will rarely see them in resorts.
Uber App and Similar – Modernity on Egyptian Streets
Rides booked over the phone are becoming increasingly popular. The Uber app and local Careem (now owned by Uber) are a solution for those who prefer to have everything under control – a price known in advance, a route on the screen and no need to negotiate.
The Uber app is available in cities such as Cairo, Alexandria and Hurghada . It is an ideal option for solo travelers and women – the ride is recorded, and the Uber driver usually knows basic English. You can also add comments to the driver in the app, such as a request for air conditioning or help with luggage.
However, it is worth being careful about trying to drive outside the app – some drivers try to arrange a “left-handed” ride to avoid the commission. Always insist on driving through the official app.
what are taxi prices in Hurghada, Cairo and Alexandria – what to expect?
If you’re going to Egypt, you’re probably wondering: how much does a taxi ride really cost? Well, it all depends on the city, the time of day, the length of the route… and your negotiation skills.
Taxi prices in Hurghada - a paradise for drivers, a trap for tourists
In Hurghada , as in many Egyptian resorts, taxi prices can vary greatly – especially if you are a tourist.
Locals usually pay 10-20 EGP for a ride between districts, but drivers can offer visitors as little as 10 euros for the same route. So don’t be surprised – always negotiate!
It is best to ask the hotel reception for an approximate price for a given trip in advance. Short trips in the city centre (e.g. Sheraton Road, Marina, Sakkala) should cost 20-40 EGP, while a longer trip , e.g. to the airport, should cost 100-150 EGP. Set a price before setting off to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Taxi Prices in Cairo – Meter or Contract?
In the capital, the situation is more complex. Taxi prices in Cairo are theoretically defined - the start is around 8 EGP, and each kilometer is 4-5 EGP. The problem is that many drivers do not want to turn on the taximeter. Instead, they offer a price "by eye."
For example, a ride from central Cairo to the Giza Pyramids (about 10km) can cost between 80 and 120 EGP – but only if you are familiar with local rates and can haggle.
From the airport to downtown Cairo, a taxi will cost you around 150–200 EGP, unless you use Uber , in which case it will be closer to 100–150 EGP.
Taxi Prices in Alexandria – Seaside Chillout and Local Tricks
In Alexandria , the same rule applies as in Cairo – there are white taxis with a taximeter and older models without one. Taxi prices in Alexandria start at around 7-8 EGP for a start, and a kilometer is 3-4 EGP.
For short journeys in the city centre you will pay 20–40 EGP, for longer journeys (e.g. from Montazah to the city centre) – around 60–80 EGP.
Some drivers can overprice, especially at popular attractions or tourist hotels. Haggling is the norm here – and often necessary.
How to negotiate the price and not get scammed
If you’re used to clear, set price lists – welcome to Egypt, where the game begins.
For us Europeans, the concept of negotiating a price may seem foreign. We are used to the fact that the price on the tag or meter is the final price.
Meanwhile, in the countries of the Middle and Far East – and especially in Egypt – the price quoted is often only a starting point for negotiations .
One could even speak of a tradition of bargaining , deeply rooted in local culture. After all, it is the Arabs who have been considered masters of trade for thousands of years!
When there is no taximeter – arrange everything in advance
Many taxis in Egypt don’t have a working meter. The driver may also claim that it “just broke down.” What then? The key is to always agree on a price before setting off . Otherwise, you’ll be told a fare at the end of the ride that will leave you stunned.
Instead, negotiate. Ask calmly, “How much to [name of place]?” and continue the conversation until you get a fair price. You can also mention that you know the reality (“the hotel said it was 50 EGP”), which often works.
The Most Common Tricks Drivers Use - and How to Avoid Them
Here are some tricks that many very friendly or even " very nice" drivers use:
Inflated price after the exchange rate : despite prior agreement, demands more. Solution: reconfirm the price when getting off and pay only what was agreed.
No change : "Sorry, no change, my friend" - a typical gambit. Carry small banknotes (5, 10, 20 EGP).
Banknote swap : you give 100 EGP and he shows 10 EGP saying you made a mistake. Say out loud how much you are giving ("I give a hundred") and look at your hands.
Pushing for extra courses : "I'll take you to my cousin's great perfume shop" – politely decline.
How to stay confident and not get caught off guard
The most important thing is your attitude. Be polite but firm. Haggling is part of the culture – a very safe driver won’t be offended if you try to cut the price in half. After all, it’s a normal part of Egyptian life.
Sometimes a driver who was initially pushy turns out to be really helpful after a short conversation – and even becomes your guide around town.
Sometimes a safe driver will offer to provide transportation care for the entire day – this may be a good option if the price is reasonable and you feel comfortable and good with him.
Haggle boldly, with a smile – and remember that in Egypt it is not shameful, but an everyday occurrence.
Uber in Egypt - a modern alternative to the classic taxi
Although we do not want to advertise it, it is impossible to ignore the fact that Uber in Egypt can be simply convenient – especially for tourists who do not feel like haggling with every driver .
Where does the Uber app work?
The Uber app is available in major cities, including Cairo , Alexandria , and Hurghada . It is in these cities that the Uber app is most frequently used by visitors.
When you order a ride by phone, you can see the price and route right away. This means you don't have to worry if the Uber driver suddenly changes it. If there's a problem, you always have confirmation of the ride in the app.
Short pros – for clarity
no need to negotiate
price known in advance
possibility of payment by card or cash
recorded route and comfortable ride
Many travelers admit that thanks to this they felt comfortable and the whole trip went as a smooth ride . If you care about time and peace - it's worth having Uber on your phone. Especially when other passengers have already arrived comfortably and you are still trying to negotiate something on the street.
Alternative ways to book airport transfers in Egypt
Not everyone likes to catch a taxi off the street after a long flight. That's why many tourists decide to book an airport transfer online. There are several platforms in Egypt that offer this service - simple, predictable and stress-free.
Most popular transfer platforms
Kiwitaxi is very popular among tourists, but it is not the only option. You can also choose:
Welcome Pickups
GetTransfer
Suntransfers
SharmTaxi (operates locally in Sharm el Sheikh)
Most of them offer a dedicated driver who will wait with a welcome sign at the airport , help with luggage and speak English. You choose the class of car, specify the destination address and pay in advance through the booking system – simple and transparent.
Why is it worth it?
Such a transfer in Egypt is a particularly good choice if you are traveling with a family, have a lot of suitcases or are landing late at night. You avoid haggling, have a guaranteed price and pick-up time.
Many tourists praise their experience with Kiwitaxi : "The ride with Kiwitaxi was comfortable and good , the driver was punctual, and the journey itself was relaxing and comfortable ." This type of service is also a great option for people who simply like to have everything planned.
In case of problems, it is easy to find the driver , because you have the contact and the car registration number. In addition, other passengers are already comfortably on the way, while you are still looking for a taxi.
Taxis vs. Other Options – Comparison with Other Means of Transport
Taxis are a convenient way to get around, but they’re not always the best choice in Egypt – especially if you’re looking to save money or are travelling during rush hour.
Fortunately, transport in Egypt offers a whole range of options: from the metro, through minibuses and buses, to tuk-tuks and organized transfers in Egypt .
Public Transport in Egypt – When is it Worth It?
In large cities such as Cairo and Alexandria, public transport in Egypt works quite well – especially the Cairo Metro , which is relatively clean, fast and cheap.
Trains run every few minutes, and at popular stations there are separate carriages for women.
Trams in Alexandria are more of an atmospheric curiosity than an efficient means of transport – slow, often outdated, but cheap.
City buses, on the other hand, can be crowded, old, and difficult for tourists to decipher.
Minibuses in Egypt - cheap, but not always safe
Minibuses in Egypt are very popular among locals – especially in smaller towns and resorts. Fares are really low (2–5 EGP), but ride comfort, punctuality and safety are often highly questionable.
There are cases of overloaded buses, reckless driving and lack of air conditioning. What's more - according to travelers' accounts and press data - minibuses are involved in a large number of road accidents.
The October 2024 accident on the Al-Galala highway (12 fatalities) is just one of many examples.
Long-distance trains and buses – different standards, sometimes dangerous
The Egyptian railway suffers from serious infrastructure neglect . In recent years, there have been several major rail disasters ( Sohag, Toukh, Minya ), which have raised questions about standards and management.
Intercity buses, while often more comfortable thanminibuses , are not without risk either. Accidents involving large coaches – most often due to speed and driver fatigue – occur regularly.
Therefore, when traveling on longer routes, it is worth using proven companies (Go Bus, Blue Bus), booking a seat in advance and avoiding driving at night.
Taxis are just one element of the wide range of public transport options available in Egypt .
It is always worth adjusting the measure to the place, time of day and your own needs – and be careful, because not every course will be safe.
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