Flight Guide to Cairo (Egypt)
Even thousands of years after the time of the Pharaohs, Cairo continues to dazzle millions of visitors every year with its rich display of remains from ancient Egypt, as well as influences from the Romans, Greeks, and Arabs. When you're starting off on your adventure through Egypt, there's really no better way to do it than booking affordable flights to Cairo.
Take a moment to acclimatize to the crowds and chaos, and you will soon find yourself enjoying the constant buzz of activity, crowded tea stalls and cafes, fragrant sheesha bars, and endless markets where you can buy loads of inexpensive trinkets and gifts. From the treasure-filled Egyptian Museum to the Pyramids at Giza, the secretive Sphinx, and the (slightly) more modern Islamic Cairo area, the city gives you a tantalizing hint of what you can expect on your journey through the rest of the country.
Flight Booking for Cairo
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is located about 20 km (12 miles) from downtown Cairo and is the city's primary airport. Airlines with flights to Cairo include EgyptAir, Lufthansa, KLM, United Airlines, and ITA Airways (formerly Alitalia). Air Canada also offers services from Canada through its codeshare partners, such as British Airways, EgyptAir, and Swiss International Air Lines. Direct flights from North America are rare, and most airlines connect to Cairo via major hubs like Amsterdam, New York, Paris, or London.
Round-trip flights to Cairo from North America typically range from 700 to 1,200 USD, depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Flights from Europe are often cheaper, with round-trip fares starting at 300 to 600 USD.
When to go and weather
Cairo has a typical desert climate, so if you're not used to extreme heat, it's best to avoid visiting during the summer months (June to August), when temperatures can soar above 100°F (38°C). Flights and hotels sell out quickly between November and March, which is the peak tourist season in Egypt. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). However, nighttime temperatures can drop to around 50°F (10°C), so remember to pack a sweater or two for the evenings.
The shoulder season (March to May and September to October) is a great time to visit if you're looking for cheaper flights and fewer crowds. Flights during this period can cost 100 to 200 USD less than during peak season. However, the weather can still be quite warm, so bring along a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.
Arriving in Cairo
Most flights to Cairo International Airport (CAI) arrive at Terminal 1, while Terminal 3 handles air traffic from EgyptAir and a few other airlines. Terminal 2 is currently closed for renovations. For further details on transport options, check the airport's website.
• Public Transit: Several Cairo Transit Authority (CTA) city buses depart from the parking lot in front of Terminal 1 to destinations across Cairo. One-way tickets cost less than $0.50 USD.
• Airport Shuttle: A one-way trip on the airport-provided shuttle bus costs about 4 USD per passenger to Heliopolis and 15 USD to the Helwan District. If you're travelling in a group, it’s cheaper to book an entire shuttle bus for your party (up to seven people), as you would pay only $20 USD for the entire vehicle to Helwan. You can book in advance via telephone or email or visit the Cairo Airport Shuttle Bus desk for the next available service.
• Taxi: Taking a cab from Cairo's airport can be a bit unpredictable. You can choose between the older black-and-white taxis (which operate without meters), newer white taxis (which are metered but may be more expensive than negotiating a price), or metered City Cabs (if available). Fares from the airport to downtown Cairo are approximately 10–12 USD, while a trip to the Pyramids in Giza could cost 25–30 USD.
• Chauffeured Car Service: Start your trip to Egypt in style by booking a luxury car or limousine service from the airport. A Mercedes-Benz trip to downtown Cairo costs about 20 USD. For a more budget−friendly option, book a mid−size vehicle for about 20USD or take a mini-bus for your family for about $13 USD.
• Car Rental: Driving in Cairo is not for the faint of heart, but if you're brave enough to take on the chaotic traffic, you can choose from several rental car companies, such as Avis, Sixt, Budget, and Hertz. Counters are located in each terminal, and you can either book in advance or at the counter upon arrival. Daily rental rates start at around 25–40 USD, depending on the vehicle type and rental duration.
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