Sachin Walls
Cairo Airport is just under 14 miles from the city centre, which is a 30-minute taxi ride away. The traffic in Cairo can be very heavy, so it's recommended to allow 90 minutes to get back to the airport. If you're taking a tour, it's best to book online in advance. You can pay $25 USD for a 30-day single-entry tourist visa on arrival at Cairo Airport, but some travellers have reported that the visa costs $75 or $100. If you don't want to leave the airport, EgyptAir offers passengers with long layovers free accommodation at a transit hotel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Code | CAI |
| Number of Terminals | 3 (T1, T2, T3) and a seasonal Hajj terminal |
| Transport to/from the airport | 45 minutes to an hour with bad traffic |
| Availability of ATMs | Difficult to find |
| Currency | Egyptian Pounds |
| Visa | 96-hour transit visa |
| WiFi | Available but poor connection |
| Food | Egyptian food is similar to other Middle Eastern foods |
| Alcohol | Not available at most places |
| Power | Power outages are common |
| Hotels | Le Meridien Cairo Airport, Novotel Cairo Airport, Le Passage Cairo, Radisson Blu Hotel Cairo Heliopolis |
| Security | Multiple screenings |
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What You'll Learn
- Cairo Airport has three terminals with an automated people mover linking Terminal 1 with Terminals 2 and 3
- There are lounges in the airport that offer fee-paid access to economy-class passengers
- Travellers have reported that some bathrooms are in poor condition and lack adequate supplies
- The Cairo Airport has a lot of security, including a second screening before sitting outside your gate
- If you're planning to leave the airport, it can take 45 minutes to an hour to get to downtown Cairo
Cairo Airport has three terminals with an automated people mover linking Terminal 1 with Terminals 2 and 3
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is one of the largest airports in the Middle East. It has three main passenger terminals (T1, T2, and T3) and a seasonal Hajj terminal. An automated people mover (APM) called the MiniMetro® links Terminal 1 with Terminals 2 and 3, the AirMall, and the multi-storey car park. This APM is the first of its kind on the African continent and is composed of two trains with a capacity of 170 passengers each. It operates via a technological process that allows the trains to travel on a thin strip of area, using rope traction and state-of-the-art air cushion technology for quiet and smooth mobility.
The airport also has an airbridge that physically connects Terminals 2 and 3. All baggage is screened in Terminal 1 before entering, which can cause long queues and chaos outside the entranceway. It is recommended to have your passports and documents readily available, as they will be checked frequently. Be cautious of aggressive porters or self-proclaimed "airport employees" who may offer to expedite your entry into the terminal for a fee.
There are a variety of dining options and shops available both airside and landside in all terminals, including duty-free shopping. While most of the airport has been renovated, some travellers have reported that the bathrooms lack adequate supplies, so it is suggested to come prepared with your own toiletries.
If you are looking for a place to rest, there are informal relaxation spots in each terminal, and a hotel connected to Terminal 3 by a pedestrian bridge. Le Meridien Cairo Airport offers easy access to the terminal and comfortable accommodations. Additionally, there are several other nearby hotels that provide airport shuttle services, such as Novotel Cairo Airport, The Gabriel Hotel, and Radisson Blu Hotel Cairo Heliopolis. These shuttles can also take you to various destinations outside the airport, such as Downtown, Alharam – El Maadi, and Heliopolis, at affordable rates.
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There are lounges in the airport that offer fee-paid access to economy-class passengers
If you have a long layover in Cairo, you might want to leave the airport to explore the city and its famous sights. The Cairo airport is just under 14 miles from the city centre, and the journey by taxi takes around 30 minutes, but it can take over an hour during peak times. The bus is another option, but it takes a similar amount of time.
There are several lounges in the Cairo airport that offer fee-paid access to economy-class passengers. These lounges typically offer comfortable seating, refreshments, and sometimes even shower facilities. They can be a great option for passengers who don't want to leave the airport or who don't have much time between flights.
However, if you do choose to leave the airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you'll need to go to one of the bank kiosks and pay for a single-entry tourist visa, which is typically $25 USD for a 30-day visa. This will allow you to pass through immigration and enter Egypt. It is also recommended to have local currency, Egyptian pounds, as finding an ATM outside the airport can be challenging.
Once you have your visa and some local currency, you can explore Cairo. The Pyramids of Giza are a popular attraction, and a guided tour can provide transportation and insight into their history. The Egyptian Museum is also a must-see, and foodies will enjoy sampling Egyptian cuisine, which is similar to other Middle Eastern foods. Just be aware that alcohol is not typically served in most restaurants.
When returning to the airport, plan for heavy traffic and leave at least 90 minutes to get back to allow for potential delays. Using a ride-sharing app like Uber is a safe and affordable option for transportation in Cairo.
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Travellers have reported that some bathrooms are in poor condition and lack adequate supplies
Cairo International Airport (CAI) has three passenger terminals (T1, T2, and T3) and a seasonal Hajj terminal. While most of the airport has been renovated or is new, travellers have reported that some bathrooms are in poor condition and lack adequate supplies. This means that some bathrooms may not have toilet paper, so it is advisable to bring your own.
Terminal 1 (T1) is where all baggage is initially screened, which can cause long queues and crowds outside the terminal. It is also where your passport and documents will be checked frequently, so it is important to have them readily available. Be cautious of aggressive porters or self-proclaimed "airport employees" who may offer to expedite your entry into the "first-class line" for a fee. They may ask for your passport as a form of collateral until you pay them for their services.
Once inside the terminals, there are dining options and shops available both airside and landside. Duty-free shopping is also available in all terminals. If you plan to rest in the airport, Terminal 3's Level 3 (landside) and Zone H are said to have plenty of lightly padded benches that can provide a comfortable sleep. For added security, it is recommended that solo travellers try to sleep near other travellers.
If you prefer more privacy and comfort, there are hotels near the airport that can accommodate your needs. Le Meridien Cairo Airport is connected to Terminal 3 by a pedestrian bridge, while the Novotel Cairo Airport offers a free 24-hour airport shuttle bus upon request and has day rooms available. Other nearby hotels include Le Passage Cairo and Radisson Blu Hotel Cairo Heliopolis, both of which offer airport shuttle services upon request.
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The Cairo Airport has a lot of security, including a second screening before sitting outside your gate
Cairo International Airport (CAI) has three passenger terminals (T1, T2, and T3) and a seasonal Hajj terminal. The airport has a reputation for being a confusing and challenging place to navigate, with travellers facing long lines, aggressive porters, and frequent document checks.
One notable aspect of the airport's security is the presence of a second screening before passengers can sit outside their gate. This additional layer of security is implemented when leaving the country and can impact departure times. It is recommended to keep this in mind when planning one's departure to avoid any unexpected delays.
Cairo Airport also has initial baggage screening in Terminal 1, which can cause congestion and chaos outside the entranceway. This process involves screening all baggage before entering the terminal, leading to a crowded and disorganized environment. It is advisable to have passports and documents readily available, as they will be frequently checked.
In addition to the security measures, Cairo Airport offers various amenities to travellers. These include dining options, shops, and duty-free shopping in all terminals. There are lounges accessible to economy-class passengers for a fee, and a hotel connected to Terminal 3 via a covered bridge. The airport also provides access to WiFi, although foreign travellers may encounter difficulties connecting without a local SIM card or eSIM.
Overall, while Cairo Airport may present challenges with its extensive security measures and busy terminals, it also provides essential services and facilities to travellers passing through.
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If you're planning to leave the airport, it can take 45 minutes to an hour to get to downtown Cairo
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is a busy airport with three passenger terminals and a seasonal Hajj terminal. It can be chaotic, with long lines and multiple screenings, so it's important to plan your time there accordingly. If you're leaving the airport, it can take 45 minutes to an hour to get to downtown Cairo, depending on traffic. To avoid being overcharged, it's recommended to book a taxi in advance using an app. Cairo's traffic can be unpredictable, so it's wise to allow for extra time when returning to the airport.
The airport has a variety of dining options, but most do not serve alcohol. The bathrooms may be in poor condition, and it is suggested that travellers bring their own toilet paper. There are lounges accessible to economy-class passengers for a fee, and a hotel connected to Terminal 3 for those who want to rest during their layover.
Cairo Airport is known for its aggressive porters and self-proclaimed "airport employees" who may offer expedited services for a fee. It is important to be cautious and keep your passport secure. The airport has Wi-Fi, but foreign travellers may need a local SIM card or eSIM to connect. ATMs can be difficult to find, so it is recommended to get cash at the airport or exchange currency at a hotel.
Overall, while Cairo International Airport can be chaotic, with proper planning and awareness of potential challenges, travellers can make the most of their time there and safely explore downtown Cairo during their layover.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you need a visa to leave the airport in Cairo. You can pay $25 USD for a 30-day single-entry tourist visa.
The journey from Cairo Airport to downtown Cairo is about 14 miles and can take 30 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic.
The metro is clean and simple to use, but the only other way to get to the city from the airport is by bus or taxi. Uber is also popular in Cairo and is one of the least expensive ways to get around.
The Pyramids of Giza are a must-see during your layover in Cairo. You can also visit the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
