Car Rental in Cairo

Why rent a car in Cairo?

Cairo is one of the most fascinating cities in the Arab world. Most travelers come here for the stunning Giza pyramids, the largest of which is the only one of the seven wonders of the ancient world that survives to this day. But from well-preserved and diverse architecture to ancient communities and amazing food, the city of Cairo itself also has plenty to enjoy. After seeing Cairo, you can explore the rest that this fascinating country has to offer. 

Top ways to enter Cairo

• Cairo Airport: The busiest in Egypt, Cairo Airport is a hub for EgyptAir and Nile Air and is also served by around 30 other airlines. In addition to domestic connections, it provides flights to and from destinations in North and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Europe, East Asia, and the Americas. Located 22km (13.4 miles) northeast of the city center, Cairo Airport can be reached in about 30 minutes.
• Sphinx Airport: A newly built airport, Giza-Sphinx is set to open in 2020. Located practically a stone’s throw from the famous pyramids, the airport will primarily serve domestic connections, but might eventually come to also provide some international flights. Located 48km (30 miles) west of the city center, the airport can be reached in about 45 minutes.
• Alexandria Borg El Arab Airport: Serving Egypt’s second city on the Mediterranean coast, Borg El Arab Airport has flights by around 15 different airlines. The airport is mainly focused on serving Middle Eastern destinations but also has flights to and from Athens in Greece and Milan in Italy. Located 215km (133 miles) northwest of Cairo, the airport can be reached in about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
• Hurghada Airport: Serving the famous Red Sea coastal city of the same name, Hurghada Airport is the second-busiest in the country. The airport hosts flights by more than 50 different airlines (although many are only active seasonally). Located 475km (295 miles) southeast of Cairo, the airport can be reached in about five hours by car.

City facts

• Although located on the Nile River, Cairo has a hot desert climate. The average high temperature is 35°C  (95°F) in July, the warmest month, and 20°C  (66°F) in January, the coldest. Precipitation is extremely low throughout the year - it is practically nonexistent from June to September and there is a very tiny increase every December and January.
• With a population of 9.5 million, Cairo is not only the capital but also by far the largest city in Egypt. Around 11 million other people live in the city’s larger metropolitan area which means that around every fifth inhabitant of Egypt lives in or around Cairo; it also makes Cairo the largest metropolitan area in Africa, the largest in the MENA (the Middle East and North Africa) region, and the fifteenth-largest in the world. 

Top sights and activities

• Egyptian Museum. Also called the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, this is a must-visit place for any traveler interested in Ancient Egypt. The museum has a truly amazing collection of Egyptian artwork, religious objects, and other artifacts as well as many relics from other famous civilizations like Romans, Ancient Greeks, and others. Visiting in 2020 might be your last chance - by the end of the year or in 2021, the museum will be replaced by the Grand Egyptian Museum, an even more ambitious cultural institution.
• Cairo Citadel. One of the most impressive buildings in the city, Cairo Citadel was built in the 12th century and has been an important symbol of might for many of the civilizations that have ruled Egypt. Today, the fortification is a beloved tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a part of the collection of heritage buildings and areas collectively known as Islamic Cairo. 
• Coptic Cairo. The Coptic language is said to have directly descended from Ancient Egypt making its speakers, Copts, one of the oldest populations in the world (the tongue now only survives as a liturgical language). Unlike the majority of Egyptians who are Muslims, Copts are Eastern Orthodox Christians and, consequently, many of the landmarks of their Cairo quarter are sites like the Hanging Church and Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church. Other attractions of the area include the Coptic Museum and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. 
• Heliopolis. Despite being known as Masr el-Gedida, or New Egypt, in Arabic, its name shouldn’t fool you as this area in the east of Cairo is the oldest district in the city. Although most Ancient Egyptian sites are located outside the city boundaries (more on that below), Heliopolis is known for its impressive obelisk, as well as several other ancient sites. Nowadays, the area is considered one of the nicest for living in Cairo.
• Cairo Tower. Ever since its construction was finished in 1961, Cairo Tower has been one of the main features of the capital city’s skyline. Tourists are most attracted by the revolving restaurant and viewing platform at the top of it which naturally provides breathtaking views of the city below, especially during sunsets.

Traffic and parking

• Egypt drives on the right-hand side of the road. 
• Unless specifically indicated otherwise, the speed limits are 100km/h - 120km/h (62 mph - 75 mph) on highways, 60km/h (37 mph) in populated and built-up areas.
• Many parts of Cairo, especially outside the city center, do not have traffic signs, street lights, etc. This has led Cairo drivers to develop a local understanding and a number of unwritten street rules for the local traffic which to an outsider might at first seem chaotic and unpredictable. Even if the street signs are in place, they might not be respected, speed limits are not followed, horns are used extensively, etc. Exercising extra caution and using common sense instead of just following the rules will significantly increase your chances of dealing with Cairo traffic.
• In Egypt, cars often have to share the highways with camels, horse carts, etc. Cattle and wildlife crossings can also be an issue. Drive carefully, especially after dark. 
• Speed bumps are in use and sometimes are not marked. 
• While you’ll find plenty of gas stations in and around Cairo and on main highways, they can be very sparse in rural areas. Never stay too low on gas and always set out your route in advance to know the location of the next gas station.
• Due to government subsidies, gas is very affordable in Egypt.
• It is strongly advised against driving in the desert without previous experience, even with a GPS system - a much better idea is to hire a local driver or at least a guide.
• Security can be an issue in Egypt - while Cairo and its surroundings are comparatively safe, most Western governments strongly advise traveling to the Western part of the country, as well as the Sinai peninsula. 
• The legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.00% for novice drivers. Exceeding the limit can lead to large fines and even imprisonment.
• Proof of insurance and the car’s documentation need to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
• When driving, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
• The ambulance number is 123, the police number is 122, the tourism police number is 126, the traffic police number is 128, and the fire department number is 180.

Toll roads

There are a number of toll roads in Egypt, with some starting/ending in Cairo. The amount you have to pay depends on the road of your choice, the time of the day, and the distance you travel. Cash is usually accepted. 

Ideas for day trips

• Giza. The number one reason why most people visit Egypt, Giza is home to the most famous Egyptian pyramids. The Great Pyramid, Sphinx, and other sites are located here, as are the Queens Pyramids and Pharaoh Tombs and Solar Barque Museum. Located about 15km (9 miles) from Central Cairo, the area can be reached in about 25 minutes.
• Dahshur Pyramids. Another Ancient Egyptian site, Dahshur is best-known for the Red Pyramid, but other pyramids and impressive structures are also located in the area. Much less crowded than Giza, Dahshur is a place to marvel at the pyramids in a more relaxed atmosphere. Located about 36km (22 miles) south of Cairo, Dahshur takes 40 minutes to reach.
• Fayum. Historically known as Krokodilopolis, Fayum is a city that’s rich in Ancient Egyptian, Christian, and Muslim heritage. You’ll find not only pyramids, but also the Qaitbay Mosque, the Greco-Roman settlement of Dimeh, and the Archangel Gabriel Monastery. Should all the history overwhelm you to the point where you’d like a change of scenery, Fayum is near Wadi Rayan, a protected nature area. Located 101km (63km) southwest of Cairo, Fayum takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach.

Most popular cars

The most popular rental car in Egypt is the Renault Logan, closely followed by the Nissan Sunny and the Mitsubishi Lancer. The most popular rental car types are economy, compact, and intermediate.

Further destinations

• Alexandria. Egypt’s second city is an atmospheric and historic place. From Kom el-Shoqafa Catacombs to the Citadel of Qaitbay and Alexandria National Museum, there are plenty of attractions to enjoy.  Even if you’re not a history lover, you’ll find plenty to enjoy including the beautiful Corniche Promenade and some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria is 220km (137 miles) northeast of Cairo and can be reached in about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
• Hurghada. A resort town on the Red Sea, over the last few decades Hurghada has become one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations. Although it’s perfectly possible to just enjoy the sun and the sea, Hurghada is also one of Egypt’s hubs of kitesurfing, snorkeling, and diving. Turn your back against the coast and you’ll find the mighty Sahara with opportunities for camel riding and desert safaris. Located 465km (289 miles) southeast of Cairo, Hurghada can be reached in about five hours.
• Luxor. One of the most famous destinations of historic Upper Egypt, Luxor is a travel destination like no other. The city is home to the famous Valley of the Kings where the tombs of Tutankhamun and many other pharaohs are located as well as impressive temple complexes and a Mummification Museum. Top off a great day by watching the sunset over the Nile from a felucca boat. Luxor is located 660km (410 miles) south of Cairo and takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes to drive to. Should you find it too long of a trip for a single day, cities like Asyut and Abydos are on the way and are great places to stop and rest. 

Car rental prices in Cairo

• Small cars - from $16 per day
• Medium cars - from $17 per day
• Large cars - from $19 per day
• SUVs - from $25 per day
• Premium cars - from $113 per day
• Vans - from $125 per day

Money-saving and other tips

Increase your chances of landing a great rental car by following these tips:

• Compare the rates of different rental car providers
• Book your rental car well in advance
• Plan your route before you go
• Know your fuel and mileage requirements
• Visit during the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Cairo is the cheapest in September when renting a car is about 55% cheaper than the yearly average and a whole 65% cheaper than renting a car in June.