With the arrival of summer, it’s important to know travel tips, things you should know and prepare for, and things you should avoid, especially in Egypt. Egypt stands out from other countries for its tourist attractions and beaches that reflect the country’s culture and heritage. Egypt’s rich history is reflected in its contemporary culture. There are plenty of activities to engage your senses.
To enjoy all these attractions, there are a few things to consider, including the country’s cultural traditions. If you’re planning a trip to Egypt and some of its historical sites, knowing driving tips is essential, whether in cities or desert roads. As Egypt's landscapes unfold before you, it's essential to be well-prepared, ensuring that your road trip is not only memorable but also safe and enjoyable.
While you can travel without restriction through most areas of Egypt, travel permits are required for desert travel between Bahariya and Siwa oases (permits available in Siwa), to Ain Della and the Gilf Kebir/Jebel Uwaynat in the western desert, for the desert east of Marsa Alam, and if you want to camp around Berenice and the Red Sea coast south of Marsa Alam.
Before we dive in,
EGYPT TRAVEL GUIDE (No BS) | Scammers, Safety & Costs
Essential Requirements for Driving in Egypt
To drive legally in Egypt, foreign drivers must have:
Read also: Egyptian Adventure
- A valid domestic driver’s license
- An International Driving Permit (IDP), which acts as a legal translation
The IDP proves your eligibility to drive and is mandatory under Egyptian traffic law. The IDP must be obtained before you enter Egypt and presented alongside your original license.
Additionally, you should always carry these documents in the vehicle:
- Original driver’s license
- International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Passport (or a photocopy with visa page)
- Rental agreement or proof of vehicle ownership
- Vehicle registration (“car license”)
- Car insurance papers
Missing documents can lead to fines or delays.
The visa process is as simple as you can imagine. If you qualify, you can obtain a single-entry renewable tourist visa upon arrival for $25, valid for 30 days.
Before making a reservation, be sure to find out if you can pick up the car in one city and return it in another. Generally, this is only possible with cars from Hertz, Avis or Budget.
Read also: Learn Arabic in Egypt: Guide
Egypt is much more than just the Pyramids. There are numerous historical cities and new towns in Alexandria, Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor, and planning ahead will help you avoid any logistical complications.
Here’s what you should always have with you when driving in Egypt:
- Original driver’s license
- International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Passport (or a photocopy with visa page)
- Rental agreement or proof of vehicle ownership
- Vehicle registration (“car license”)
- Car insurance papers
Understanding Egyptian Driving Culture
Driving in Egypt is often described as organized chaos. The roads are a lively free-for-all where confident, assertive driving is a must. Expect a spirited local driving style - drivers commonly weave and negotiate for space with a symphony of horn honks. There’s an unspoken rhythm to the madness that seasoned locals instinctively understand.
The minimum age for driving in Egypt is 25 years, the maximum is 70. Many roads are easy and organized. Foreigners require an International Driving Licence (obtainable from motoring organizations at home).
Car horns are common, traffic signals are often ignored, but seatbelts are mandatory.
Read also: Clothing in Ancient Egypt
In many Egyptian cities, you might encounter locals who offer to help you find a parking spot in crowded areas. They'll guide you into the tightest of spots, making use of hand signals and friendly shouts to ensure a successful parking job. It's common to tip them for their help.
Most Egyptians are eager to help when asked, but you may need to connect some scattered items in Arabic with locals who speak another language. It is also useful if you need to fend off scammers or pushy merchants.
Most people in major cities dress casually, favoring comfort over fashion.
It is also useful if you need to fend off scammers or pushy merchants.
If you’re determined to drive, consider renting a car with a driver.
One of the most important things to know before traveling to Egypt is that it is a Muslim-majority country, and the dress code tends to be conservative compared to many other countries.
Staying connected in Egypt is crucial, especially when traveling, communicating with friends, or arranging transportation. Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat are the main telecom companies in Egypt. Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport or Hurghada Airport, you will find booths affiliated with these companies where you can purchase a SIM card.
Here’s a breakdown of key regulations and laws for foreign drivers:
- Egypt follows right-hand driving.
- Speed Limits:
- Cities: 50-60 km/h (around 30-37 mph)
- Open roads: 90 km/h (~55 mph)
- Expressways: 100-120 km/h (varies by road)
- Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
- Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal.
- Egypt has zero tolerance for driving under the influence.
Traffic signals exist but may not always be working-or followed. If a light is out, a police officer usually directs traffic.
In most major cities and on highways, road signs are bilingual (Arabic and English). However, in rural areas or side streets, signs might only be in Arabic.
Road Conditions and Safety Tips
Main roads and highways in Egypt are generally paved; many major routes are in decent condition or newly built. However, smaller side streets can have potholes or uneven surfaces. In older parts of cities, streets may be narrow and crowded with parked cars, market stalls, and pedestrians. Night driving can be hazardous on highways and rural roads.
If you’re a beach buff, there are plenty of destinations on the North Coast or Naama Bay for diving or snorkeling trips. The idea of doing any activity or sport at any beach is completely within reach, as is dining at unique and affordable restaurants.
Sunscreen is essential if you don’t want to spend the second half of your vacation piled high with ice packs. This is especially true if you’re visiting Egypt during the summer. July is the hottest month, with temperatures ranging from 34.7°C (94.5°F) to a sweltering 43.3°C (109.9°F).
Egypt is famous for its cotton, and what better place to wear cotton than Egypt? Pack breathable clothing and make sure to include pastel and bright colors in your wardrobe.
Traffic lights in Cairo aren’t always working. There are some toll roads in Egypt, the most important of which is the Cairo-Alexandria road. Parking in Egypt can be difficult, especially in major cities. The emergency services number is 122 for the police and 123 for medical care.
The highest speed limit outside towns is 90km/h (56mph), despite old signs on some highways which still say 100km/h. In built-up areas, the highest speed limit is 60km/h (37mph), and on some stretches of road, the limit can be as low as 30km/h (18mph). Road signs are similar to those in Europe, but speed limits are usually posted in Arabic numerals. Vehicles drive on the right, although traffic in cities is relentless and anarchic, with vehicles weaving to and fro between lanes, signalling by horn.
Most roads are bumpy, with potholes and all manner of traffic, including donkey carts and camels. Beware, especially, of children darting into the road. If you injure someone, relatives may take revenge on the spot. Avoid driving after dark, when Egyptians drive without lights, only flashing them on to high beam when they see another car approaching. Wandering pedestrians and animals, obstructions and sand drifts present extra hazards. In spring, flash floods can wash away roads in Sinai. On pistes (rough, unpaved tracks in the desert or mountains) there are special problems.
Police or military road checks - signposted in English as “Traffic Stations” - occur on the approach roads to towns and oases and along major trunk routes. Foreign motorists are usually waved through, but you might be asked to show your passport or driving licence.
Renting a Car in Egypt
Renting a car gives you freedom to explore at your own pace - you can drive to off- the-path spots and avoid haggling with taxi drivers. However, you need to honestly assess your driving confidence.
Major international car rental companies operate in Egypt (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, etc.), particularly at airports and in large cities. There are also local rental agencies which might offer lower rates, but stick to well-reviewed ones to ensure the cars are reliable.
To rent a car in Egypt, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old (some companies require 23-25)
- Have held a driver’s license for at least 1 year
- Provide a valid passport
- Present an International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Use a credit card in the main driver’s name for the deposit
Fuel stations are frequent in towns and along highways. Petrol is affordable and you can pay first or have an attendant pump for you. Bring cash (small EGP bills) for payment and tips.
Alternative Transportation Options
Egyptian public transport is, on the whole, pretty good. There is an efficient rail network linking the Nile Valley, Delta and Canal Zone, and elsewhere you can travel easily enough by bus or shared (service) taxi. On the Nile you can indulge in feluccas or cruise boats, while in the desert there’s the chance to test your camel-riding prowess. For those in a hurry, EgyptAir provides a network of domestic flights. These Egypt travel tips on getting around will help you navigate with confidence.
Egypt’s three main bus companies, all based in Cairo, cover most of the country:
- Upper Egypt Bus Company - Serves the Nile Valley, Fayoum, inner oases, and the Red Sea Coast down to El-Quseir.
- East Delta Bus Company - Covers Sinai and the Canal Zone.
- West and Middle Delta Bus Company - Runs routes to Alexandria, Mersa Matrouh, Siwa, and the Nile Delta.
Collective service taxis (known as servees) are one of the best features of Egyptian transport. They operate on a wide variety of routes, are generally quicker than buses and trains, and fares are very reasonable.
In general, it’s only worth flying if your time is very limited, or for the view - the Nile Valley and Sinai look amazing from the air - although the trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel is easiest by plane. EgyptAir flies between Cairo and Alexandria, Mersa Matrouh, Port Said, Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Assyut, Sohag, Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel, as well as between Aswan and Luxor and between Aswan and Abu Simbel.
Here is a simplified table summarizing the key points for driving in Egypt:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Required Documents | Original license, IDP, Passport, Vehicle Registration, Insurance |
| Driving Side | Right-hand side |
| Speed Limits | Cities: 50-60 km/h, Open roads: 90 km/h, Expressways: 100-120 km/h |
| Safety | Seatbelts mandatory, avoid night driving |
| Local Customs | Expect heavy horn use, assertive driving |
Popular articles:
tags: #Egypt
