Cairo to Aswan

Where to Stay

Traveling from Cairo to Aswan by train with Egyptian National Railways (ENR) offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey:

1. Train Options and Classes:

Seated Trains:These trains offer First and Second Class air-conditioned seats. First Class provides more spacious seating, while Second Class is more economical.
Sleeper Trains:Operated by Watania Sleeping Trains, these overnight trains offer private compartments with sleeping arrangements, including a sink and mirror for basic hygiene.
Talgo Trains:A newer addition to ENR's fleet, Talgo trains offer enhanced comfort and faster travel times with First and Second Class seating options.

Schedules and Duration:
Trains operate frequently between Cairo and Aswan. The journey typically takes between 12 to 17 hours, depending on the train type and number of stops. For example, the VIP Train 2006 departs Cairo at 5:15 PM and arrives in Aswan at 6:00 AM, with a duration of 12 hours and 45 minutes.

3. Ticket Prices:

Seated Trains:Prices vary based on class and train type. For instance, First Class tickets on Special Express trains are approximately $45–$65, while Second Class tickets range from $35–$50.
Sleeper Trains:Tickets range from $90 to $130, depending on the accommodation type.
Talgo Trains:Tickets are priced between $95 and $109, offering a faster and more comfortable journey compared to traditional sleeper trains.

4. Booking Tickets:
Tickets can be purchased online through the Egyptan. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for sleeper trains, as they tend to fill up quickly.

5. Onboard Experience:

Seated Trains:Offer basic amenities with air-conditioned compartments.
Sleeper Trains:Provide private compartments with sleeping berths, a sink, and mirror. Meals are typically included in the ticket price. Note that the compartments can be compact, which might be a consideration for taller passengers
Talgo Trains:Known for their modern amenities and enhanced comfort, making the journey more pleasant.

6. Tips for Travelers:

Security:Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
Comfort:Bring personal items like a travel pillow or blanket for added comfort, especially on longer journeys.
Refreshments:While some trains offer meals, it's a good idea to carry snacks and water.
Restrooms:Facilities are available on board but may not always meet high standards of cleanliness; carrying hand sanitizer is recommended.

Traveling from Cairo to Aswan by train is one of the most iconic rail journeys in Egypt, covering a scenic stretch along the Nile River Valley. Operated by Egyptian National Railways (ENR), this route connects the bustling capital of Cairo to the serene beauty of Upper Egypt, passing through historic towns, agricultural lands, and desert landscapes.

The Cairo–Aswan railway line runs southwards, mostly parallel to the Nile River. Key stations along the route include:

Your journey begins in Cairo, Egypt’s sprawling capital and a city that never sleeps. Here, the modern world collides with the ancient in spectacular fashion. Explore the Giza Pyramids—the last surviving wonders of the ancient world—along with the iconic Sphinx, watching over the desert sands for thousands of years.

Dive into Egypt’s deep history at the Egyptian Museum, home to treasures of Tutankhamun and countless other relics. Wander through Islamic Cairo, a labyrinth of mosques, minarets, and medieval alleys, or visit Coptic Cairo to explore early Christian sites and quiet churches.

Cairo (Origin)
Giza– Suburb of Cairo with views of the pyramids
Beni Suef
Minya
Asyut
Sohag
Qena
Luxor– Major historical hub
Edfu
Kom Ombo
Aswan (Terminus)

Total Distance: ~880 km
Travel Time: 12–15 hours depending on train type

Train Timings & Options

There are several daily trains on this route. You can choose between day trains, night trains, and luxury sleeper services:

Day Trains (Ordinary & AC Express)

Mostly for locals, but tourists can also use them.
Basic AC trains have reserved seating.
Departures: Typically in the morning (8:00–10:00 AM)
Duration: 13–14 hours
Seats: 2nd and 1st Class AC
No sleeping facilities

Night Trains (Sleeper Trains)– Best for Tourists

Operated by Watania Sleeping Trains (in partnership with ENR)

Departure from Cairo: Around 7:45 PM or 9:00 PM
Arrival in Aswan: Between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM next day
Duration: ~13 hours
Cabins: Private single or double sleeper cabins
Meals: Dinner and breakfast included
Comfort: Clean, air-conditioned, comfortable for long travel

Tickets

Can be booked:
- Online
- At train stations
- Through travel agents or hotel concierge

Prices:

Sleeper Cabins: $80–$120 USD per person (subject to change)
AC Express: ~$10–$20 USD depending on class

Travel and Flights

1. Cairo

Don’t miss:

The Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx– One of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Egyptian Museum– Home to the treasures of Tutankhamun.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar– Historic market perfect for local shopping.
Citadel of Saladin & Mosque of Muhammad Ali– Ottoman architecture and panoramic city views.

2. Saqqara & Memphis

Step Pyramid of Djoser– The oldest pyramid in Egypt.
Ancient ruins of Memphis– Egypt’s first capital, with a colossal statue of Ramses II

3. Fayoum (Optional Detour)

Wadi El Rayan– Desert waterfalls and natural reserves.
Wadi Al-Hitan (Valley of the Whales)– UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient whale fossils.

4. Beni Suef / Minya (Off the Beaten Path)

Tuna el-Gebeland Hermopolis – Greco-Roman archaeological sites.
Beni Hassan Tombs– Middle Kingdom tombs with vibrant wall paintings.

5. Luxor (A must-stop!)

East Bank:

Karnak Temple– Massive temple complex with the Great Hypostyle Hall.
Luxor Temple– Stunning night-time lighting and ancient inscriptions.

6. Edfu

Temple of Horus– One of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon god Horus.

7. Kom Ombo

Temple of Kom Ombo– Unique double temple dedicated to Sobek (crocodile god) and Horus.
Crocodile Museum– Preserved mummified crocodiles.

8. Aswan

Must-visit sites:

Philae Temple– Beautiful island temple dedicated to Isis.
Unfinished Obelisk– Massive obelisk in a granite quarry.
Nubian Museum– Showcasing the rich history of Nubia.
Nubian Village Tour– Colorful villages with warm hospitality and vibrant culture.
Aswan High Dam– Major engineering project that shaped modern Egypt.