Cairo Airport Taxi Cost
Cairo International (CAI) to city, Giza & Pyramids — fares 2026
Fare Table
| Destination | Metered Taxi (EGP) | Uber (EGP) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Cairo / Tahrir Square | EGP 80–150 | EGP 200–320 | 30–50 min |
| Zamalek / Garden City | EGP 90–160 | EGP 220–360 | 35–55 min |
| Heliopolis (near airport) | EGP 40–80 | EGP 100–180 | 15–25 min |
| Maadi | EGP 120–200 | EGP 280–420 | 45–70 min |
| Giza / Pyramids | EGP 150–250 | EGP 300–500 | 45–75 min |
| New Cairo / Fifth Settlement | EGP 80–140 | EGP 200–320 | 30–50 min |
Note: Egyptian pound (EGP) rates fluctuate significantly. As of early 2026, USD 1 ≈ EGP 32–33. Metered taxi prices depend heavily on negotiation skills. Uber shows prices upfront.
Uber at Cairo Airport
Uber is the recommended option for most travellers. Upfront pricing eliminates negotiation, and the app tracks your route. Set your pickup location to the Uber/Careem pick-up zone outside Arrivals before leaving the terminal.
- • Careem (owned by Uber) is also popular and well-established in Egypt
- • Both apps work well at CAI — compare prices before booking
- • Payment: credit card, Vodafone Cash, or cash (enable cash payment in app settings)
Metered Taxis
White metered taxis operate from the official taxi stand outside Arrivals. Fares are very cheap by international standards but meter use can be inconsistent — some drivers prefer to negotiate a fixed price. For tourists unfamiliar with fair local pricing, Uber offers more certainty. If using a metered taxi, ensure the meter is running from the start of the journey.
Scam Tips
- Drivers who approach you inside Arrivals quoting very low prices — these often become expensive by journey end
- Refusing to use the meter and quoting an inflated fixed price — always agree on a fare before boarding
- Taking a longer route, especially to the Pyramids — turn on Google Maps to follow the route
- Extra charges for luggage — there is no official luggage surcharge for standard bags
FAQ
Is there a metro from Cairo Airport?▼
No — Cairo's metro does not currently reach the airport. The nearest metro station (Heliopolis/Hesham Barakat) is about 5 km from the terminal. A taxi/Uber to the metro station costs ~EGP 60–100, then metro fare to central Cairo is about EGP 7.
How long is the taxi ride to the Pyramids?▼
45–75 min depending on traffic, via the Ring Road or Corniche. Traffic can be heavy 07:00–09:00 and 16:00–19:00. Budget extra time.
Should I arrange a transfer in advance?▼
For peace of mind, especially late-night arrivals, pre-booking via Uber or a hotel transfer is recommended. Cairo airport can be chaotic at peak times.
Can I change money at the airport?▼
Yes — currency exchange booths and ATMs are in Arrivals at Terminals 2 and 3. Airport rates are slightly worse than city centre. Withdraw EGP for the taxi if using metered cabs.
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