Cairo to Aswan

Cairo is the vibrant capital of Egypt, and one of the largest cities in Africa and the Middle East. Known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets,” it’s famous for its rich Islamic architecture, bustling bazaars, and deep historical roots.

Aswan is not a country, but a city in southern Egypt, located along the Nile River. It’s one of Egypt’s most charming and historically rich destinations, known for its beautiful river scenery, ancient temples, and Nubian culture.Aswan is a peaceful city on the banks of the Nile, serving as a gateway to ancient Nubia. It’s famous for its warm climate, granite quarries, and key historical landmarks like the Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam, and the Unfinished Obelisk. The city also offers a unique cultural blend of Egyptian and Nubian traditions. A popular activity is taking a felucca ride (traditional sailboat) on the Nile, especially during sunset.

​Traveling from Cairo to Aswan via Egyptian National Railways (ENR) offers a scenic journey along the Nile River, with various train options to suit different preferences and budgets.​

Train Options:

  1. Express Air-Conditioned Trains:These trains provide comfortable seating and are a popular choice for travelers.​
  2. Sleeper Trains:Operated by a separate entity, these trains offer private cabins for overnight journeys, including dinner and breakfast.

Booking Tickets:

  • Online:ENR provides an online booking platform where you can check schedules, availability, and purchase tickets. Visit the official ENR website's booking section to plan your trip. ​
  • Customer Service Center:For assistance, ENR has launched a 24/7 voice customer service center. You can inquire about train schedules, ticket reservations, and other services by calling 1661 from a mobile phone or 09000661 from a landline. Note that calls cost 1.5 Egyptian pounds per minute.
  • At the Station:Tickets can also be purchased directly at train stations. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.​

Additional Tips:

  • Advance Booking:Trains, especially sleeper services, can fill up quickly. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred travel date and class.​
  • Travel Time:The journey from Cairo to Aswan typically takes between 12 to 14 hours, depending on the train type and number of stops.​
  • Identification:Carry a valid ID or passport when traveling, as it may be required during ticket purchase or onboard.​

Cairo to Aswan

Traveling from Cairo to Aswan by train is one of the most iconic rail journeys in Egypt, covering a scenic stretch along the Nile River Valley. Operated by Egyptian National Railways (ENR), this route connects the bustling capital of Cairo to the serene beauty of Upper Egypt, passing through historic towns, agricultural lands, and desert landscapes.

The Cairo–Aswan railway line runs southwards, mostly parallel to the Nile River. Key stations along the route include:

Your journey begins in Cairo, Egypt’s sprawling capital and a city that never sleeps. Here, the modern world collides with the ancient in spectacular fashion. Explore the Giza Pyramids—the last surviving wonders of the ancient world—along with the iconic Sphinx, watching over the desert sands for thousands of years.

Dive into Egypt’s deep history at the Egyptian Museum, home to treasures of Tutankhamun and countless other relics. Wander through Islamic Cairo, a labyrinth of mosques, minarets, and medieval alleys, or visit Coptic Cairo to explore early Christian sites and quiet churches.

  1. Cairo (Origin)
  2. Giza– Suburb of Cairo with views of the pyramids
  3. Beni Suef
  4. Minya
  5. Asyut
  6. Sohag
  7. Qena
  8. Luxor– Major historical hub
  9. Edfu
  10. Kom Ombo
  11. Aswan (Terminus)

Total Distance: ~880 km
Travel Time: 12–15 hours depending on train type

Train Timings & Options

There are several daily trains on this route. You can choose between day trains, night trains, and luxury sleeper services:

Day Trains (Ordinary & AC Express)

  • Mostly for locals, but tourists can also use them.
  • Basic AC trains have reserved seating.
  • Departures: Typically in the morning (8:00–10:00 AM)
  • Duration: 13–14 hours
  • Seats: 2nd and 1st Class AC
  • No sleeping facilities

Night Trains (Sleeper Trains)– Best for Tourists

Operated by Watania Sleeping Trains (in partnership with ENR)

  • Departure from Cairo: Around 7:45 PM or 9:00 PM
  • Arrival in Aswan: Between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM next day
  • Duration: ~13 hours
  • Cabins: Private single or double sleeper cabins
  • Meals: Dinner and breakfast included
  • Comfort: Clean, air-conditioned, comfortable for long travel

Tickets

  • Can be booked:
    • Online
    • At train stations
    • Through travel agents or hotel concierge

Prices:

  • Sleeper Cabins: $80–$120 USD per person (subject to change)
  • AC Express: ~$10–$20 USD depending on class

Similar Train Travel News

Chicago to California

Chicago to California

Chicago, a thriving and diversified metropolis in the state of Illinois, is encircled by a number of counties that add to the area's dynamic metropolitan area. The city itself is located in Cook County, which is the second most populated county in the US and is well-known for its vibrant urban life, cultural landmarks, and rich history. Cook County is surrounded by a number of suburban counties, including DuPage, Lake, Will, and Kane, which provide a variety of residential neighborhoods, forest preserves, and expanding commercial centers. Together, these counties make up the Chicago metropolitan area, also known as Chicagoland. With its unique blend of suburban beauty and urban energy, the area plays a crucial role in the Midwest's transportation, culture, and economics. There are 58 counties in California, and each has its own distinct topography, customs, and points of interest. California's many regions are reflected in everything from the vibrant metropolitan centers of Los Angeles County, the most populated county in the United States, to the picturesque areas of Marin and Monterey Counties. While Napa County is renowned for its world-class vineyards and wineries, San Francisco County is known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and tech-driven economy. While Orange County combines coastal appeal with theme parks like Disneyland, San Diego County in the south has breathtaking beaches and a rich cultural legacy.

More Info
Milan - Paris

Milan - Paris

One of the most recognizable cities in the world is Paris, the capital of France, which is frequently referred to as the "City of Light." Paris, which is home to famous structures like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, is renowned for its romantic ambiance, exquisite architecture, and rich cultural legacy. Tourists swarm to take in world-class cuisine, fashion, and art while strolling along the Seine River and exploring quaint neighborhoods like Montmartre. It's the ideal fusion of beauty, history, and contemporary style. A pleasant and picturesque high-speed train ride connects two of Europe's most famous cities: Milan and Paris. The direct train, run by TGV INOUI or Frecciarossa, travels through stunning scenery, such as the French countryside, Piedmont hills, and the Italian Alps, in around 6 hours and 30 minutes. Departure:Milano Centrale Arrival:Paris Gare de Lyon Highlights:Alps views, comfortable seating, city-center to city-center convenience Classes:Standard, First Class, Business (on Frecciarossa)  

More Info
Paris-Barcelona

Paris-Barcelona

The Paris to Amsterdam route is a delightful journey that takes you through the heart of Western Europe, offering a mix of rich history, culture, and picturesque landscapes. Key Highlights: Travel Time:3.5 to 4 hours by high-speed Thalys train. Departure:Paris Gare du Nord Arrival:Amsterdam Centraal Distance:~500 km What to Expect Along the Way: Paris:Begin in the romantic capital with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and charming neighborhoods like Montmartre. Cities in between: Lille (France):A beautiful blend of French and Flemish influences, known for its stunning architecture and lively squares. Brussels (Belgium):The political heart of Europe, offering grand squares, waffles, and beer. Amsterdam:End in the artistic capital of the Netherlands, with its canals, world-class museums, and historic districts like the Jordaan.

More Info
Madrid - Barcelona

Madrid - Barcelona

Spain's capital, Madrid, is a bustling, sophisticated metropolis in the center of the nation. Madrid, which combines traditional Spanish culture with a vibrant, contemporary lifestyle, is well-known for its wide boulevards, regal architecture, and top-notch museums. The city is home to vibrant areas including Malasaña and Chueca, the Royal Palace, and the well-known Prado Museum. With its lively plazas, late-night tapas bars, and enthusiastic residents that liven up the city, Madrid has a historic yet vibrant vibe. Barcelona, which is situated on the Mediterranean coast in northeastern Spain, has an entirely distinct atmosphere. It is well-known for its distinctive fusion of Gothic charm and modernist art. The city displays Antoni Gaudí's magnificent architectural creations, particularly the famous Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Barcelona is renowned for its lively street life along La Rambla and in the Gothic Quarter, as well as its laid-back beach culture and inventive culinary scene. Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, offers tourists a rich and varied experience by proudly expressing its unique identity, language, and cultural heritage.

More Info
Cairns to Uluru

Cairns to Uluru

Cairns is a tropical city in Queensland, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. It’s also close to the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Popular for snorkeling, diving, and eco-adventures, Cairns offers lush landscapes, reef cruises, and Indigenous cultural experiences. Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a massive red sandstone monolith in the heart of the Northern Territory. It holds deep spiritual significance to the Anangu Aboriginal people. Surrounded by desert and located in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, it's famous for glowing colors at sunrise and sunset, stargazing, and cultural walks. Experience Australia's heartland in style by traveling from tropical Cairns to the Red Centre's iconic Uluru with a journey that includes the legendary Ghan Train. Start in Cairns, known for its lush rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef, then make your way south to Adelaide, where you board The Ghan — one of the world’s greatest rail journeys. Over several days, The Ghan takes you through the rugged Outback, with stops in Alice Springs and Katherine, offering immersive off-train excursions. From Alice Springs, transfer to Uluru (Ayers Rock) by road or air, where you can witness the majestic rock formations and sacred Aboriginal culture.

More Info
Tokyo to Yokohama

Tokyo to Yokohama

Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and one of the most populous cities in the world. It’s a global hub for finance, culture, and technology. Known for its mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional temples, cutting-edge fashion, and efficient transport, Tokyo is a vibrant and fast-paced city. Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city, located just south of Tokyo. It’s a major port city known for its beautiful waterfront, international influence, and modern architecture. Yokohama has a relaxed vibe compared to Tokyo, with attractions like the Cup Noodles Museum and a large Chinatown district.   Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Line: Tokaido Shinkansen Travel Time: Approximately 18 minutes Fare: Around ¥1,380 for an unreserved seat and ¥3,210 for a reserved seat JR Tokaido Main Line Travel Time: Approximately 23–30 minutes Fare: Approximately ¥500–¥1,000 ​ Keihin-Tohoku Line Travel Time: Approximately 40 minutes Fare: Approximately ¥500–¥1,000 ​TravelPander+6 Narita Express (N'EX) Service: Direct service from Narita Airport to Yokohama Booking: Reservations can be made online ​ All these trains are modern, punctual, and offer a comfortable travel experience. If you're looking for a scenic or luxury train journey within Japan, options like the Saphir Odoriko or Seven Stars in Kyushu might be of interest.​

More Info