Car Rental in Cairo

Where to drive

• The Giza Pyramids and Sphinx are a short drive from central Cairo, typically 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. Having your own car allows you to visit at your own pace, avoiding crowded tour buses.
• Explore Saqqara and Dahshur, home to ancient pyramids like the Step Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid, located approximately 30-45 km south of Cairo. This trip takes about 1-1.5 hours one way.
• A day trip to Fayoum Oasis, about 100-120 km southwest of Cairo, offers stunning natural beauty, including Lake Qarun and Wadi El Hitan (Whale Valley). The drive takes roughly 1.5-2 hours.
• Drive to Alexandria, Egypt's second-largest city, situated on the Mediterranean coast, approximately 220 km north of Cairo. This journey typically takes 2.5-3 hours and offers a different historical perspective.
• Discover the monasteries of Wadi Natrun, located about 100 km northwest of Cairo. This spiritual journey takes around 1.5 hours and provides insight into early Christian history.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Egypt, you will generally need a valid passport, your national driving license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Drivers typically need to be at least 21 years old, and some rental companies may require drivers to have held their license for a minimum of one year.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Cairo can vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around $25-$35 per day, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from $50-$100+ daily. Prices generally peak during the high tourist season from October to April and can be lower during the hot summer months.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Egypt, you drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are approximately 50-60 km/h in urban areas, 90-100 km/h on rural roads, and up to 120 km/h on highways. The legal blood alcohol limit for driving is very low, close to zero (0.05% or less), so it's best to avoid alcohol entirely if you plan to drive. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child seats are not always legally enforced but highly recommended for safety.

Parking

Parking in Cairo can be challenging, especially in older, densely populated areas. Street parking is often available but can be scarce and may require paying a local attendant. Many hotels offer private parking. For tourist sites, dedicated parking lots are usually available for a fee. It's advisable to use secure, supervised parking whenever possible.

Fuel stations

Fuel is widely available across Cairo and throughout Egypt. Prices are generally subsidized and relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. Payment is usually in Egyptian Pounds (EGP), and cash is often preferred at smaller stations, though larger ones may accept cards. There are different grades of gasoline (e.g., 92 and 95 octane).

Which car to choose

For driving in Cairo and on major highways, a compact or economy car with automatic transmission is often sufficient and easier to navigate through traffic. If you plan to venture into desert areas or less developed roads, an SUV with higher ground clearance would be more suitable. Automatic transmission is highly recommended due to the heavy traffic conditions.

Frequently asked questions