BASICS /
Getting around
The infrastructure for travellers is good. There are no problems finding space in buses, shared taxis, or trains. And these are both frequent and cheap. Buses and shared taxis cover more destinations than trains, and are often more pleasant to use, even when they run parallel service to the railways. Trains are best in cases where you travel overnight, and want to be able to sleep. But with the Nile, Egypt offers means of transportation more attractive than the normal overland opportunities. Nile cruises come in all shapes, and qualities. Tourists looking for luxury will find exactly what they want, but have to pay according to standards. Budgeteers can stretch their money by going down to Aswan overland, and take one of the cheaper cruises back north. Two day trips with cabin and even food, can be had at incredible prices of US$15. Ferries inside Egypt's borders are mainly limited to the Red Sea, and for crossing the Nile. These are cheap, but a bit unreliable. Air flights work only between some few cities, and are expensive. Expect to pay 5- 15 times more than bus or train. Driving car can be rewarding, even if driving in Cairo will be horrible to the average Western driver. Renting car is far cheaper than in most other North African countries, while bringing your own vehicle is not encouraged, and forms and regulations will make this a bit time consuming.
