How to Book Train Travel From Cairo to Edfu, Egypt

With cities like the bustling, cosmopolitan Cairo, Egypt is an outstanding choice for travelers in search of a destination brimming with history and culture. Those seeking to book train travel from Cairo to Edfu should know that the country is rich with things to do and explore. Follow these steps to start planning your trip.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Book Train Travel From Cairo to Edfu

1. Choose to book your tickets online at the Egyptian National Railways Web site (see Resources below).

2. Book tickets by calling Egyptian National Railways at 011 ([phone].

3. Plan ahead by booking your tickets via an Egyptian travel agent. Bookings may be made via email or fax, but travelers report quicker service when booking by fax. Try and make your bookings at least a day in advance.

4. Enjoy the scenery by traveling on a daytime air-conditioned express train. First- and second-class accommodations are also available.

5. Sleep during your journey by booking travel on an overnight air-conditioned express train. These trains offer first- and second-class accommodations. First-class is your best bet for maximum comfort.

6. Travel time between these two cities runs over 10 hours.

Prepare for Train Travel From Cairo to Edfu

7. Get your Egyptian visa before arrival in Egypt by applying via your country's Egyptian embassy. All visitors to Egypt need a visa for entry, except those from Malta, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

8. Receive your visa once you touch down by obtaining your visa at the Egyptian airport of your arrival. Know that this option is only available to those traveling from the United States, Canada, the European Union, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

9. Schedule a smooth trip by not booking travel on an Egyptian national holiday. These holidays include January 7, April 25, May 1, July 23 and October 6. All businesses are closed on these days and trains run fewer routes.

Tips & Warnings

• Get last-minute tickets by purchasing them at the Cairo station. You may have to deal with long lines to make your transaction. The Cairo station has many booking windows, so check with a local to make sure you've joined the correct line.
• All phone numbers include the U.S. international prefix "011." When calling internationally outside the United States, substitute that "011" with "00."
• All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.
• Arabic is Egypt's official language; but you don't need to be fluent to communicate with Egyptians. Many speak English and French.
• Take the time to brush up on your knowledge of Arabic numbers. At main stations, arrival and departure times are shown in Arabic.
• Steer clear of discomfort by avoiding the ordinary trains. Though these trains are cheapest, they offer only rudimentary amenities.