How To Go

Traversing to Wadi Al-Natron: Navigating the Historic Routes by Air, Road, and Rail

Wadi Al-Natron, a beacon of historical and spiritual significance in Egypt, offers various travel options from Cairo and beyond for those eager to explore its ancient monasteries and serene desert landscape. Here’s how you can reach this revered destination:

Journeying by Bus from Cairo

  • Option 1: Catch a West & Mid Delta Co bus destined for Alexandria. Request a stop at “Master Mall and Rest” near Wadi Natrun. Expect to pay the full Alexandria fare of around E£120.
  • Option 2: For a more budget-friendly route, opt for microbuses departing from Midan al-Remaya near the Pyramids of Giza. These cost approximately E£75 and take about one hour.
  • Option 3: Buses from the Abboud area in Cairo, also operated by West & Mid Delta Co, charge about E£100 and directly enter Wadi Natrun.

Local Transit in Wadi Al-Natron 

Upon arrival, tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available for local excursions.

  • Visiting Monasteries: A tuk-tuk ride to Deir Anba Bishoi and Deir el-Sourian is priced around E£100, including return. It’s also possible to walk between these monasteries.
  • For an extensive monastery tour, consider hiring a taxi, which typically costs E£120 per hour.

Taxi Service from Cairo 

  • A comprehensive round trip by taxi, covering monastery visits, is approximately E£500. This rate accommodates the drive and exploration time around the monastic sites.

In essence, reaching Wadi Al-Natron from Cairo is facilitated by a variety of transport modes catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether opting for the communal experience of buses and microbuses for the longer stretches, or the personalized convenience of tuk-tuks and taxis for local travel within Wadi Al-Natron, visitors can tailor their journey to their needs. This guide serves as a pathway to discovering the tranquil beauty and rich history of Wadi Al-Natron, ensuring a memorable exploration of one of Egypt’s most sacred landscapes.

Created On March 25, 2020

Updated On January 25, 2024

WADI AL NATRON Travel Guide
Ancient domed Coptic monasteries with a tall bell tower nestled among palm trees in Wadi El Natron, Egyp
The timeless beauty of Wadi El Natron's Coptic monasteries, a testament to Egypt's Christian heritage
Image of the beige walls and rounded domes of Deir as-Suriani monastery under a clear blue sky, with a palm tree in the foreground
Deir as-Suriani Monastery - A Peaceful Oasis in the Desert

How to Go

Navigating Your Way to Ismailia: A Traveler's Guide

 Traveling to Ismailia, Egypt, is an adventure into a picturesque city known for its lush greenery, beautiful gardens, and the Suez Canal’s calming waters. Ismailia is located in the northeastern part of Egypt, approximately halfway along the Suez Canal, making it a serene stopover for those looking to explore the less-traveled paths of Egypt. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey to Ismailia:

Getting There

By Air

The nearest major airport to Ismailia is Cairo International Airport (CAI), which serves as a primary gateway for international travelers coming into Egypt. From Cairo, you can opt for various transportation methods to reach Ismailia.

By Road

  • Private Car or Taxi: You can hire a private car or taxi from Cairo or any major city in Egypt. The drive to Ismailia from Cairo takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via the Cairo-Ismailia desert road, offering scenic views of the desert landscape transitioning into the green oasis that Ismailia is known for.
  • Bus: Several bus companies operate services from Cairo and other major cities to Ismailia. Buses are an affordable and comfortable option, with the journey from Cairo taking approximately 2 hours. The main bus stations in Cairo, such as Turgoman and Almaza, have regular departures to Ismailia

By Train

Egypt’s railway network also connects Cairo to Ismailia, providing a scenic and relaxed way to travel. Trains depart from Cairo’s Ramses Station to Ismailia, and the journey takes around 2 to 3 hours. Train travel offers a unique perspective of the Egyptian countryside and is a recommended experience if you have the time.

ISMAILIA Travel Guide
Colorful mosaic art installation in the foreground with a lush green park and desert landscape in the background
Art meets oasis in this striking juxtaposition of mosaic beauty and arid desert
A crane on a barge in a river with a cityscape in the background under a clear blue sky
The interplay of industry and urban life on the river's edge

How to Go

Journeying to Al Fayoum: Your Guide to Seamless Travel

Setting off towards Al Fayoum, an alluring oasis nestled close to Cairo, is an experience teeming with various transportation choices, each providing its own unique flavor of adventure. This detailed guide aims to simplify your journey to this historic city, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience.

Embarking via Microbus: Quick and Culturally Rich

For efficiency and a dose of local life, the microbus is an excellent choice. These buses depart from several locations in Cairo, including Midan al-Remaya in Giza, Ulali near Ramses Station, and the ring-road underpass in Moneib. The ride, which typically takes between 1½ to two hours, is a vibrant introduction to the Egyptian way of life, whisking you away to Al Fayoum.

Travelers with sights set on the serene Lake Qarun or the charming artisan village of Tunis will find direct microbus services from Midan al-Remaya to Abshaway invaluable. Once at Abshaway, a subsequent microbus ride delivers you to your scenic or cultural destination. For the return journey to Cairo, microbuses from Medinat al-Fayoum offer frequent and accessible routes back to the capital’s various stations, with fares reflecting the distance to your specific endpoint.

The Train Route: Leisurely and Scenic

For those who prefer to soak in the views at a leisurely pace, the train from Giza Suburban station to Medinat al-Fayoum presents a delightful option. Departing at 9 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm, the train journey offers passengers a peaceful glimpse into the Egyptian countryside, albeit at a slower speed compared to road travel. The return service operates at 7.15 am, noon, and 5.30 pm, totaling around 2 hours for the trip, providing a calm and scenic backdrop to your travel tale.

Choosing Your Path

Whether you lean towards the energetic buzz of a microbus journey or the relaxed tempo of a train ride, traveling to Al Fayoum is an integral part of your Egyptian adventure. Each transportation mode not only serves as a bridge to Al Fayoum’s breathtaking landscapes and rich historical tapestry but also offers an authentic slice of Egyptian culture and daily life. This journey, irrespective of the mode of transport chosen, sets the stage for the remarkable experiences and discoveries that await in Al Fayoum. The city, a cradle of history and natural beauty, promises visitors an unforgettable exploration of Egypt’s lesser-known treasure, making the journey as captivating as the destination itself.

Created On March 18, 2020

Updated On January 24, 2024

AL FAYOUM Travel Guide
An expansive desert oasis with lush greenery and a large body of water amidst golden sands.
Serenity amidst the sands: A flourishing oasis in the heart of the desert
A wide waterfall with a heavy flow, surrounded by a semi-arid landscape under a clear sky.
The raw power of nature is encapsulated in this dynamic waterfall, a serene yet potent force against a tranquil sky

How To Go

Before You Go

Check the Latest Travel Advisories

  • Always check the latest travel advisories from your government or international bodies like the United Nations or the World Health Organization. Given the ongoing geopolitical changes in the Middle East, these advisories are subject to change and can offer crucial advice on travel safety.

Obtain Necessary Permissions

  • Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may need special security clearances or permissions to travel to Al-Arish. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Getting There

By Air

  • El Arish International Airport serves as the primary gateway to the city by air. However, flight schedules might be affected by the current situation, so it’s essential to confirm with airlines directly regarding the availability of flights.

By Road

  • The Northern Coastal Highway is a major route that connects Al-Arish with other parts of Egypt, including el-Qantarah at the Suez Canal, extending to the Gaza border crossing at Rafah. Checkpoint security along this route is likely to be heightened, so prepare for possible delays and thorough inspections.

Railway

  • The railway line from Cairo to Al-Arish is currently under reconstruction. Once completed, it is expected to offer a convenient alternative for travelers. Keep an eye on updates regarding the completion of this project for future travel plans.

While You Are There

Stay Informed

  • Keep abreast of local news and any advisories issued while you are in the area. Situations can evolve rapidly, and staying informed will help you make the best decisions for your safety.

Respect Local Laws and Customs

  • Al-Arish, like the rest of Egypt, has a rich cultural heritage. Respecting local customs, traditions, and laws is paramount. This includes dressing modestly, understanding local etiquette, and adhering to any curfews or travel restrictions in place.

Security Precautions

  • Given the heightened security environment, always follow the advice of local authorities and your country’s embassy or consulate. Avoid areas known for unrest and be cautious when traveling outside of secured areas.

Alternative Travel Suggestions

Considering the current recommendations to avoid travel to Al-Arish until further notice, you might explore other destinations within Egypt that offer rich cultural experiences and historical insights. Destinations like Cairo, luxor, and Aswan, while always popular, can provide travelers with a safer and equally enriching Egyptian adventure.

Conclusion

Traveling to Al-Arish at this time comes with significant challenges and risks due to the geopolitical situation in the region. It is crucial to weigh the necessity of your trip against these risks and adhere to all travel advisories and regulations. For those with essential travel needs, thorough preparation, including securing the necessary permissions and staying informed of the latest developments, is key to a safe journey. For others, exploring alternative destinations within Egypt may be the best course of action until the situation in Al-Arish stabilizes.


Created On March 18, 2020

Updated On March 20, 2024

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