What's the public transportation like in Cairo? I know in a lot of big cities it can either be really good or really bad. If someone was staying for say... 2-3 weeks what would you say is the best way to get around inside the city?

I have heard that the best way to get around town is using a taxi. The biggest tip I was told was to negotiate the fare though. They are more than willing to negotiate.

the buses are fine if you want to go with the natives. I use it all the time.
Regarding the taxi I dont use them often most times it takes you twice as long . Dropping off to their uncles shops. As for driving They drive like raving lunitics. Also rush hours fumes horindous and in the summer forget it.
By the time you get back to your room your stink of fumes and you are coughing . Not healthy

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Denise

Thanks for the information. It's good to know that there is a good bus system, since I've gotten so used to using them here in the US and in other countries I've visited.

Hmm that's interesting most cities I've visited the taxi's were actually pretty quick. Good to know to stay away from them for the most part.

Actually, I've heard advisories that were definitely against taking the buses in the towns.

I suppose it depends on someone's expectations, but they can be very dirty and packed with people. And if someone was nervous about pocket picking, a crowded bus would be a place to avoid.

i do not really recomend public busses as it is really dirty and full of people , you will be really crashed.

the best way now to go around in cairo is the new taxi company called city cap. you can order them by phone. and they only charge according to the counter. really new cars, airconditioned , with very clever taxi drivers. i do recomend that. it is a new company that only started jan. 2006 .


can give the number if you want.


xxx

Buses are a great way to get the feel for a country, I find, especially one that is not Westernized. They might be dirty and crowded, but you can still enjoy the ride! I personally prefer to ride buses as much as possible, since taxis tend to rip you off and also, buses are far more economical.

you are right but have you seen the Egyptian public buses in cities before ? did you see how busy it is , ppl just hanging themselves on the open doors ?
can you do that ? try to take a bus from the Pyramids area to the musuem and you will see how long it will take you and how suffer you will . please do not ...... there is another kind of public transportation that we call it service . try that , that is not really bad , and still cost much less than taxi .

xxx

I'd be tempted to try the new taxi service mentioned above. I don't enjoy bartering so having a price clearly displayed by the taxi counter would be a plus for me.

Actually the buses sound dangerous to me.