11 min read | Published: Nov 09, 2023 | Updated: Nov 09, 2023 | TRIPS IN EGYPT

Trains in Egypt are more than mere modes of transportation; they are living conduits of the nation's history and evolution. The rhythmic chugging of locomotives echoes through the annals of time, connecting the contemporary with the ancient.

Now, Trips In Egypt will take you on a fascinating journey on the wings of imagination to the land of Egypt as you will discover together the amazing stories of technical wonders and cultures that have formed the Egyptian railway system into what it is today as we travel wonderful vistas and the Egyptian countryside aboard Egyptian trains.

The History of Trains in Egypt

History of Trains in Egypt - Trips in Egypt

The history of trains in Egypt dates back to the 1850s when British engineers built the first railway in Egypt that connected Cairo and Alexandria in 1854. In the Early Years, Muhammad Ali Pasha proposed that Egypt create a railway system to facilitate trade and make travel easier, and then the railway track started being built in 1851.

- The First Railway Line in Egypt

Cairo-Alexandria Railway was the first railway line in Egypt that connected the capital city of Cairo with Alexandria which is a significant Mediterranean Sea port. The Egyptian railway system began in 1854 with the completion and opening of the line which was around 220 kilometers long and helped so much in the movement of goods and people between the two cities.

- The Developments of Railway Network in Egypt

The railway network in Egypt was expanded rapidly later with the construction of the Cairo-Alexandria Railway. Then, other lines were created to connect many towns and destinations in Egypt. Trains reached more towns in the 1800s and 1900s including Port Said, Suez, Luxor, and Aswan, which resulted in the promotion of trade, industry, tourism, etc. The Egyptian government established the Egyptian State Railways (ESR) in 1856 to modernize and extend the railway infrastructure, and the ESR was important in establishing and maintaining the railways in Egypt.

- Evolution of Egypt's Railway System from Steam to Sparks

The steam engines powered Egyptian trains but by the 1900s, the railways had switched to electric trains. The first electric railway line that ran from Cairo to Helwan was opened in 1902. The Egyptian railway system was upgraded throughout time by electrifying new lines with diesel engines to improve the network, as well as upgrading stations and services.

- Egypt's Railway Revival

The train trade in Egypt was disrupted by the Suez Crisis in 1956, and in the 1970s the Egyptian rail network began to deteriorate owing to a lack of investment then the Egyptian government began in the 2000s to engage in the expansion of the rail network. The new railway between Cairo and Alexandria will begin operations in 2023.

Types of Trains in Egypt with Ticket Prices

- Passenger Trains

The train passengers have three different classes which are the most prevalent modes of transportation in Egypt and they transport passengers between cities and villages of the country.

Type of Train

Ticket prices

Passenger Trains

First-class: 250:500 EGP

Second-class: 150:300 EGP

Third-class: 75:150 EGP

- Freight Trains

Freight trains transport goods and materials across Egypt as they are significantly longer than passenger trains and can carry different types of cargo.

Type of Train	Ticket prices
Freight trains	Prices vary depending on the distance traveled and the weight of the cargo.

- High-Speed Trains

These trains are the fastest in Egypt as they have high speeds of up to 250 km per hour. The biggest cities of Egypt which are Cairo and Alexandria are linked by trains of high speed.

Type of Train	Ticket prices
High-Speed Trains	From 450 up to 1200 EGP

- Tourist Trains

Tourist trains were constructed for visitors, and they included panoramic windows that allowed passengers to enjoy the views from the trains.

Type of Train	Ticket prices
Tourist trains	Depending on the train/ destination

Train Ticket

Egypt has launched its first light rail transit system to connect the new capital with Cairo, it is a new and improved version of the tram that runs on electricity and is faster, and more environmentally friendly. The Cairo Light Rail Transit connects Greater Cairo with the New Administrative Capital and 6th of October City through a route different from the monorail. The LRT has 22 trains and 19 stations and can carry up to 500,000 daily passengers. It is the first in Egypt and aims to upgrade the country's transportation as it is one of the clean power transport systems in Egypt.
Tickets:

3 stations: 15 pounds.
6 stations: 20 pounds.
9 stations: 25 pounds.
12 stations: 35 pounds.

There are also parking spaces beside the terminals where you can leave your car until you return.

Please note that these are approximate prices and may vary depending on the time of year and the availability of tickets.

Available Directions to Use Trains in Egypt

Cairo to Alexandria

The train ride between the two cities takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, this is the most popular rail travel in Egypt.

Second class air-conditioned: EGP 57
First class air-conditioned: EGP 73
VIP train: EGP 130

Cairo to Luxor

The rail ride between the two cities takes around ten hours and is another popular train in Egypt.

Second class air-conditioned: EGP 114
First class air-conditioned: EGP 202
Sleeper train: EGP 40 to EGP 120

Cairo to Aswan

This is a lengthy train journey that lasts around 12 hours, and however, it is a magnificent ride as you will enjoy the Nile River and the desert while you are on the train.

First class air-conditioned: EGP 230
Second class air-conditioned: EGP 170
VIP train: EGP 350

Alexandria to Luxor

This is a less popular train rail, but it is still a good alternative if you want to avoid crowds, the rail ride between the two cities takes around 12 hours.

Second class air-conditioned: EGP 281
First class air-conditioned: EGP 359

Cairo to Port Said

The train from Cairo to Port Said takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes, and the train travels at an average speed of 120 kilometers per hour.

Second class air-conditioned: EGP 99
First class air-conditioned: EGP 130

Cairo to Marsa Matruh

The train from Cairo to Marsa Matruh takes about 5 hours with an average speed of 100 kilometers per hour.

Second class air-conditioned: EGP 130
First class air-conditioned: EGP 220

Cairo to Ismailia

The train from Cairo to Ismailia takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes with an average speed of 120 kilometers per hour.

Second class: EGP 30
First class: EGP 47

Cairo to Tanta

The train from Cairo to Tanta takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes with an average speed of 100 kilometers per hour.

Second class: EGP 10
First class: EGP 20

Cairo to Beni Suef

The train from Cairo to Beni Suef takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes with an average speed of 100 kilometers per hour.

Second class: EGP 10
First class: EGP 20

Alexandria to Marsa Matruh

The train from Alexandria to Marsa Matruh takes about 5 hours with an average speed of 100 kilometers per hour.

Second class: EGP 105
First class: EGP 150

Luxor to Aswan

This is a great way to see the temples and other ruins in Luxor before continuing to Aswan, this is a short train journey, and it takes about 2 hours.

Second class air-conditioned: EGP 85
First class air-conditioned: EGP 120

Cairo to Damietta

The train from Cairo to Damietta takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Second class: EGP 15
First class: EGP 30

Cairo to Al Minya

The train from Cairo to Al Minya takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Second class: EGP 10
First class: EGP 20

Cairo to Sohag

The train from Cairo to Sohag takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Second class air-conditioned: EGP 57
First class air-conditioned: EGP 73
VIP train: EGP 130

Cairo to Mansoura

The train from Cairo to Mansoura takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

It costs around EGP 20

Cairo to Zagazig

The train from Cairo to Zagazig takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes.

The average price of a train ticket from Cairo to Zagazig is EGP 15
First-class tickets cost around EGP 25

Alexandria to Asyut

The train from Alexandria to Asyut takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes.

Second class: EGP 105
First class: EGP 150

Cairo to Alamein

The train from Cairo to Alamein takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes.

Second class air-conditioned: EGP 99
First class air-conditioned: EGP 130

Cairo to Suez

This is a great way to see the Suez Canal as you travel, and it is a short train journey that takes about 2 hours.

Second class: EGP 30
First class: EGP 47

Cairo to Fayoum

The train travel from Cairo to Fayoum takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes with an average speed of 120 kilometers per hour.

The ticket fare is EGP 45.

Luxor to Qena

The train from Luxor to Qena takes about 54 minutes.

Second class: EGP 10
First class: EGP 20

For more details, kindly click here: https://www.enr.gov.eg/En/

Sleeper Trains in Egypt

Sleeper trains provide travelers with a unique opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the Nile River and the desert while relaxing in your private cabin with air conditioning, a bed, and a wash basin. Sleeper trains operate overnight and offer a supper and breakfast service also saving time and money, so, if you plan to visit Egypt, sleeper trains are an excellent choice to book.

Sleeper trains in Egypt also link Cairo to key cities such as Luxor, Aswan, and Alexandria, where travelers can see ancient Egypt monuments and the countryside.

Facilities of the Sleeper Trains

Sleeper trains provide many levels of comfort and privacy as they provide compartments with one or more mattresses where passengers may sleep without disturbing others. There are several amenities accessible aboard the train that passengers can use within their cabins such as toilets, sinks, and showers that are communal or private. The passengers can have meals in the dining restaurant in the sleeper trains. There are many sleeper trains that offer a bar or café where you can get beverages and snacks.

The passengers can keep their belongings in particular places or cabins on sleeper trains. Sleeper trains are equipped with safety measures such as fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and emergency exits to keep passengers safe. There are many sleeper trains that offer power outlets or USB connections near the seats or beds so that travelers can charge their gadgets.

How to Book A Train in Egypt?

Visit the official website of the Egyptian Railway https://www.enr.gov.eg/En/
Sign up with your email address.
Before you proceed, please read all of the conditions and terms.
Choose "I agree to the terms and conditions above".
Choose the type of trip you want.
Enter the particulars.
Proceed to payment by Visa or MasterCard.
Enter the required information.
The confirmed tickets are emailed to you as a PDF.

Tips for Traveling by Train in Egypt

You should make your reservation for tickets in advance to prevent losing out on your cabin. This is especially important if you are traveling during peak season, and you will be able to reserve tickets online or at the railway station.
Train delays are common in Egypt, so be prepared for such situations.
There are three classes of trains in Egypt: first class, second class, and third class. The first class offers the most comfort, but it costs the most, the second class is a reasonable choice if you want to save money, while the third class is the cheapest option but it is also the least uncomfortable.
Cash is King! Cash is the main form of payment in Egypt, so you will have to use it to buy your tickets.
Traveling by Egyptian train requires modest clothing as it is a Muslim country, which means that you should wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
You should learn some Arabic words to help you when interacting with the Egyptians.
It is important to inform the train staff before traveling if you are a traveler with a disability so they will be able to assist you and find a seat that suits you.
It is better for you to carry your bottled water with you to stay hydrated.
Do not drink alcohol in public as it is considered impolite behavior.
You should keep a certain amount of cash with you while on your tour, but do not carry a large amount.

Pharaoh's Express: Adventures through Egypt

Egypt tour packages unlock a captivating journey through ancient wonders. From the iconic pyramids to Luxor's sun-kissed temples, each package immerses travelers in a tapestry of history. Expert guides reveal pharaohs' secrets, while luxurious accommodations offer respite. A magical odyssey, blending culture and comfort, awaits in the heart of Egypt.