2025-08-06 01:08:13
transportation borg el arab airport hbe to cairo
Transportation from Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) to Cairo
Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE) is located near Alexandria, approximately 40 kilometers southwest of the city, and serves as an important gateway for travelers heading to northern Egypt. Many passengers arrive at Borg El Arab Airport to travel to Cairo, Egypt’s capital, or other destinations in the country. This guide outlines the most common transportation options available for traveling from Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) to Cairo.
Overview of Borg El Arab Airport (HBE)
Borg El Arab International Airport is the second-largest airport in Egypt, after Cairo International Airport. It serves primarily domestic flights, as well as some international flights. The airport is located outside Alexandria and is connected to major highways leading to Cairo. Though not as large as Cairo Airport, Borg El Arab is well-equipped and offers a variety of amenities, including lounges, restaurants, and currency exchange services.
Distance and Travel Time
The distance from Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) to Cairo is approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles), and the journey can take around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transport.
Transportation Options from Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) to Cairo
There are several ways to travel from Borg El Arab Airport to Cairo, each offering different levels of cost, comfort, and convenience. Below are the primary transportation options:
1. By Taxi
Taxis are one of the most straightforward and convenient ways to travel from Borg El Arab Airport to Cairo. They are available at the airport and can take you directly to your destination in Cairo.
Benefits of Taking a Taxi
- **Convenient**: Taxis are available at all times and provide direct transportation to your destination.
- **Comfortable**: Most taxis are air-conditioned and offer a comfortable ride, especially for the long journey.
- **Availability**: Taxis are easily accessible at the airport’s taxi stand.
Taxi Fares and Travel Time
- **Travel Time**: The journey from Borg El Arab Airport to Cairo typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- **Fare**: Taxi fares for this journey can range from EGP 400 to EGP 600, depending on traffic, the type of taxi, and the specific location in Cairo.
How to Book a Taxi
- You can book a taxi at the designated taxi stand outside Borg El Arab Airport.
- It's advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey or ask the driver to use the meter.
2. By Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber, Careem)
Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are available at Borg El Arab Airport and offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. These services are available via smartphone apps and provide transparent pricing and real-time tracking.
Benefits of Using Ride-Hailing Apps
- **Convenient**: You can easily book a ride using the Uber or Careem app from your smartphone.
- **Comfortable**: Ride-hailing cars are typically newer and well-maintained, offering a smooth ride.
- **Transparent Pricing**: With these apps, you can see the fare in advance, so there are no surprises at the end of the trip.
Ride-Hailing Fares and Travel Time
- **Travel Time**: The journey to Cairo will typically take around 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
- **Fare**: The fare for a ride-hailing service from Borg El Arab to Cairo usually ranges from EGP 400 to EGP 700, depending on traffic, type of vehicle, and demand.
How to Use Ride-Hailing Apps
- Download the Uber or Careem app from the app store.
- Enter your pick-up location (Borg El Arab Airport) and your destination in Cairo.
- Confirm the ride and wait for your driver to arrive at the designated pick-up point.
3. By Private Car or Limousine
For a more comfortable and luxurious experience, private car services or limousines are available for hire at Borg El Arab Airport. This is a great option for travelers who prefer a more personalized and exclusive service.
Benefits of Private Car Services
- **Luxury and Comfort**: Private cars and limousines offer a high level of comfort, with spacious, air-conditioned vehicles.
- **Personalized Service**: You will have a dedicated driver, and you can arrange the car to your needs.
- **Direct Route**: Private cars provide direct transportation to your hotel or other destination in Cairo.
Private Car Fares and Travel Time
- **Travel Time**: The journey usually takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
- **Fare**: Private car and limousine services range from EGP 700 to EGP 1,500, depending on the vehicle type, services, and provider.
How to Book a Private Car
- Private car services can be arranged in advance through a travel agency, hotel, or car rental company.
- You can also inquire about limousine services at the airport’s car rental desk.
4. By Bus
Bus services from Borg El Arab Airport to Cairo are also available, though they are less common than taxis and ride-hailing options. Buses are a more affordable option for travelers heading to Cairo.
Benefits of Taking the Bus
- **Economical**: Buses are the most budget-friendly option for traveling from Borg El Arab to Cairo.
- **Comfortable**: Many buses are air-conditioned, offering a more comfortable ride than public transportation.
Bus Fares and Travel Time
- **Travel Time**: The bus journey typically takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.
- **Fare**: Bus fares usually range from EGP 50 to EGP 150, depending on the bus company and type of service.
How to Use the Bus
- Bus services are available at the airport’s bus terminal. You can check with airport staff for schedules and availability.
- You can also book tickets through local travel agencies or online services.
5. By Train (Via Alexandria)
Though there is no direct train service from Borg El Arab Airport to Cairo, you can take a taxi from the airport to Alexandria’s main train station, **Raml Station**, and then board a train to Cairo. This is an option if you prefer traveling by train.
Benefits of Taking the Train
- **Scenic**: Trains offer a more scenic view of Egypt's countryside.
- **Affordable**: Train tickets are typically more budget-friendly than other options.
Train Fares and Travel Time
- **Travel Time**: The train journey from Alexandria to Cairo takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
- **Fare**: Train fares usually range from EGP 30 to EGP 100, depending on the class and type of train.
How to Use the Train
- First, take a taxi from Borg El Arab Airport to **Raml Station** in Alexandria.
- Once at the station, purchase a ticket for the next train to Cairo.
Things to Consider When Traveling from Borg El Arab Airport
1. Traffic in Alexandria and Cairo
Both Alexandria and Cairo are known for their traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. The journey from Borg El Arab to Cairo can take longer than expected during peak traffic times. It’s advisable to plan extra time for your journey if you have a scheduled flight or appointment.
Best Time to Travel
- Try to avoid traveling during the morning and evening rush hours (7 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM) to reduce travel time.
2. Currency and Payment Methods
Although taxis, private car services, and ride-hailing apps may accept credit or debit cards, it's always a good idea to carry Egyptian pounds (EGP) for smaller expenses, particularly for bus rides or when paying directly to taxi drivers.
Currency Exchange
- Currency exchange services are available at Borg El Arab Airport, so you can easily convert your foreign currency into Egyptian pounds (EGP) before your journey.
3. Language Considerations
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, it can be helpful to have your destination written in Arabic when using taxis or public transportation.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Transportation Option
The best transportation option from Borg El Arab Airport to Cairo depends on your budget, comfort preferences, and travel schedule. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are popular choices for their convenience, while private car services offer a more luxurious experience. Buses are an affordable option for those on a budget, and train travel can be an interesting way to explore the country. Whichever option you choose, you'll have a smooth journey to Egypt's bustling capital.
