Taxi vs Bus at Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Take Bus — cheaper on typical fares.
Side by side
| Factor | Taxi | Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Option | White Taxi (metered) | Cairo Airport Shuttle Bus |
| Cost | EGP 200–400 if meter is used | EGP 50 |
| Journey | 45–75 min | 60–90 min |
| Wait | 0–10 mins | Every 30 mins |
| Payment | Cash | Cash |
| Locals recommend |
- ✓ Official
- ! Most refuse the meter from the airport
- ✓ Cheap and official
- ! Limited stops
- ! Daytime only
Scams to watch either way
- 'Meter broken' flat fare
Driver quotes EGP 700+ flat, refuses meter.
Avoid: Take Uber or Careem. If using a white taxi, agree on meter before luggage goes in the boot.
- Hotel is closed / changed
Driver claims your hotel shut down and offers a 'friend's' hotel for commission.
Avoid: Ignore. Have the driver go to your booked address. Confirm by phone if needed.
- Currency switch
You hand EGP 500, driver palms it and shows EGP 50, demands more.
Avoid: Count notes aloud, hand over one at a time.
Frequently asked
Q.Taxi or Bus from CAI — which is better?
Bus — cheaper on typical fares. Cairo Airport Shuttle Bus: EGP 50, 60–90 min.
Q.How much is Taxi from Cairo International Airport?
EGP 200–400 if meter is used typical. Journey 45–75 min, wait 0–10 mins. Payment: Cash.
Q.How much is Bus from Cairo International Airport?
EGP 50 typical. Journey 60–90 min, wait Every 30 mins. Payment: Cash.
Q.What should I watch for on arrival at CAI?
'Meter broken' flat fare: Driver quotes EGP 700+ flat, refuses meter. — Take Uber or Careem. If using a white taxi, agree on meter before luggage goes in the boot.
Fare tiers, first-30-minute checklist, all transport options ranked, and every reported scam.