Cairo to Luxor/Aswan by Overnight Train: Guide to Egyptian Sleeper Trains
Updated: Sep 24
To save time during my one week trip to Egypt, I decided to take the overnight train from Cairo to Aswan. The same train stops in Luxor and several other places, but Aswan is the longest journey of these. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about taking the sleeper trains in Egypt.
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How to Book the Train from Cairo to Luxor or Aswan
Book the sleeper train online with Abela Trains. The website is dodgy and does glitch for some people, but I managed fine. You can also book through 12Go. If you are not successful online, you can also buy a ticket a few days in advance at the train station.
You can choose a single or double cabin. The prices of each are $94.50 and $150 respectively, and if you choose the double cabin, you will be paired with someone of the same gender. These prices are inclusive of dinner and breakfast, which you pre-select when you book. Vegetarian meals are an option, and I was actually pleasantly surprised with the food that was served.
Cairo train station is labelled ‘Upper Egypt’ on the Abela Trains website. It’s called Bashtil and is very new and grand. When you arrive by taxi, someone might look at your ticket and guide you to the platform. It was a member of the tourist police for me, but it could be anyone. They might ask for a tip, even if you don’t ask for their help, but know that tipping is not necessary if you did not ask.
What is the Journey like from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan?
When the train comes into the platform, your ticket will be checked as you board. Find your cabin and your bed, and relax until they bring you dinner. This happens about an hour into the journey.
Once dinner is finished, they make up your bed and then leave you for the night. The guards know which station you are getting off at, so have timed meals and everything around that. They won’t let you oversleep! The guards are also awake throughout the journey so are available if you need something.
Breakfast is served about an hour before you are scheduled to arrive, and mostly consists of bread, jam, fruit, and yoghurt, and an egg.
The Train and Cabins on Egyptian Sleeper Trains from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan
The cabins are small but comfortable. If you have booked a double cabin, it will be a bunk bed. The cabins are slightly run down, but are otherwise fine. The bed linen is clean and fresh. There is a sink in each cabin hidden under the corner table - it was hard to find but a great addition. They provide you with a small soap and hand towel.
There are two toilets per carriage. They are western style but don’t flush - it is more of a pit situation! They don’t smell bad though. There is a sink with running water and soap and toilet paper are provided.
What to do When you Arrive at Luxor or Aswan
There are plenty of taxis at the station when you arrive. Be prepared to haggle your price down! I paid 100 EGP (approx. £4.30) for a 10-15 minute drive, which was roughly standard.
Despite my initial scepticism, I was pleasantly surprised by the train experience. It was a good way of saving time and covering a large distance overnight. Hopefully this guide answers any questions you have and makes the journey easier for you. Taking the train rather than flying is also the more sustainable option! As always, leave only your footprints behind :)
If you're headed to Egypt or more of Africa, check out my other posts here:
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