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Egypt: Cairo
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
BEST WAY DOWNTOWN: Limousine

BASICS
The airport is located 16 miles (25 km) northeast of the center of Cairo. Tourist information is open 24 hours a day, and is located in the arrivals hall just after passport control. Tourist Police also patrol the airport; they have a white band on their arms. They are a good source of information and are always available to assist arriving passengers.

TAXI
There are taxis available outside the arrivals hall, but for only a few Egyptian pounds less than the limos, it may not be worth the hassle. The taxi fare to central Cairo should be about 28 Egyptian pounds ($8). You will need to bargain with the driver, and hold your ground. It will take from 30 to 45 minutes for the journey depending on the traffic.
 
LIMOUSINE
Limousines from the airport to Cairo are really very old black Mercedes cars. Except for being met by a friend, business associate, or car rental company, the limousines are the best and easiest way into Cairo.

After you exit from the arrivals hall you will see a long line of the black Mercedes. Go toward the front of the line and ask for a limousine. A dispatcher will tell you the fare and direct you to the correct car. At this time it's a good idea to have a few pounds for tipping the men, or boys, who will help you put your bags into the car.
On the way out of the airport you will stop at a Tourist Police booth where they will write down your limo's license number, along with your name. You will be asked to sign the log book for your security.

The cost of a limo is about 50 Egyptian pounds ($10) and will take about 30 to 45 minutes to a central hotel, depending on the traffic. You pay the driver who will probably remind you about tips. Definitely give a good tip to these drivers if all goes well—about 15 percent is customary.

RENTAL CAR
There are rental cars available from companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz. Driving in Cairo should not be considered by most travelers. You can hire a driver with your car for very little more per day—about 30 Egyptian pounds ($10).

If you have appointments in many different places in and around the city, a car and driver is the only way to do it. If you book in advance you can have your driver meet you at the airport.

  • World Airport Information Main Page
    — Adapted from How to Get Out of the Airport
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