Overnight Train in Egypt
Are you wondering if taking an overnight train in Egypt is a good option? The answer is yes! With an area of 1.002 million km², journeys between two cities can be very long.
Are you wondering if taking an overnight train in Egypt is a good option? The answer is yes! With an area of 1.002 million km², journeys between two cities can be very long – nearly 650 km separate Cairo and Luxor! Traveling at night allows you to avoid wasting time between two destinations, while getting some rest… Let us tell you about Watania Sleeping Trains, the comfort of the compartments, the fares and the overnight connections…
Taking an overnight train in Egypt: the advantages
Traveling by overnight train offers several advantages. First, it allows you to discover the hinterland and have a chance to witness the sunrise or sunset. Next, this mode of transport helps you avoid traffic jams (which are an institution in Cairo!) and thus the stress of missing an internal flight. Finally, sleepers allow you to rest while limiting your carbon footprint…
Traveling with Watania Sleeping Trains: the overnight train company
The Egyptian railway network (Egyptian Railways) extends over 5,000 km of track and connects almost all major cities in the country. However, it does not manage overnight travel! At night, journeys are handled by the private company Watania Sleeping Trains (also called Watania ERNST).
Overnight train connections
Departure schedules
Watania Sleeping Trains offers several routes each evening:
| Routes | Departure time | Arrival time | Train number |
Only one departure | Aswan-Cairo | 17:15 | 06:25 | 87 |
Departure 1 | Cairo-Luxor | 19:45 | 06:10 | 86 |
Departure 2 | Cairo-Luxor | 21:10 | 07:50 | 82 |
Note: there are only 20 minutes between Cairo and Giza stations (El-Giza). For example, for a departure from Aswan at 17:15, you will arrive at 06:05 in Giza.
Stations served
Train 87 | 14 stations served | Aswan, Daraw, Kom Ombo, Klabsha, Idfu, Isna, Luxor, Qus, Qena, Nag hammadi, Sohag, Asyut, El-Giza, Cairo |
Trains 82 and 86 | 8 stations served | Cairo, El-Giza, Asyut, Sohag, Nag Hammadi, Qena, Qus, Luxor |
Ticket reservation
Although not mandatory, it is advisable to book your ticket no later than 6 PM on the same day (on the official Watania Sleeping Trains website or at the counter).
Note that train 82 (which ensures the second evening departure) has only 40 compartment spaces, compared to 74 in train 86.
When making your reservation, you will notice three pricing tiers: Egyptians, Arab nationals and foreigners. Even though they are at the higher prices, you must select the last option…
Fares and cabin types
Regardless of the route, fares are the same. They vary only depending on the type of cabin chosen:
- A private compartment, that is one berth (€108 / $120 USD);
- A shared compartment, that is two berths (€73 / $80 USD).
These fares include meal service.
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Cabin comfort and safety
Comfort
The compartments are known for being comfortable and well soundproofed. However, favor cabins in the middle of the car, as they are further from doors and less exposed to noise.
Each compartment is equipped with a washbasin with mirror, pillows, sheets, blankets, as well as a coat rack and blackout curtains. If you are sensitive to light, bring an eye mask.
Safety
The bunk beds are equipped with bars that prevent any falls from the upper bunk. Each cabin can be locked from the inside.
Baggage
The cabins have storage space suitable for large travel bags (backpacks) and suitcases.
Meals
Several dishes are offered for dinner, based on fish, meatballs, beef or vegetarian options. Breakfast is also included in the ticket price. Meal trays are brought directly to the compartments.
Be aware that only food is included (beverages are extra). It is possible to buy bottles of water on board for 10 EGP (less than €1). A bar car is at your service. If you don't want to add extra charges, remember to bring a water bottle.
Train comfort
Air conditioning
Air conditioning is available on all trains and all cars. Be aware that it cannot be turned off by the passengers themselves!
Toilets
Toilets are located in the common areas. They are clean and well-equipped. However, to avoid any inconveniences, use them during the night rather than in the early morning, when all the car's passengers have used them.
On-board staff
Available and attentive, the staff inform passengers of each stop 20 minutes before arrival.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to book your overnight train tickets in Égypte directly on the official Watania Sleeping Trains website. It is recommended to book no later than 6 PM on the day of departure. Online payment by international bank card is generally accepted. You can also purchase your ticket at the ticket counters of Cairo, Luxor or Aswan stations.
For foreign travelers, the fare for a private compartment (1 berth) is €108 / $120 USD and that for a shared compartment (2 berths) is €73 / $80 USD. These prices include meals (dinner and breakfast). Beverages are extra, except for water available on board for approximately 10 EGP (less than €1).
The overnight train journey between Cairo and Luxor takes approximately 10 to 11 hours depending on the train chosen. The first departure (train 86) leaves Cairo at 19:45 and arrives in Luxor at 06:10. The second departure (train 82) departs at 21:10 to arrive at 07:50. These schedules may vary slightly.
Yes, meals are included in the ticket price, regardless of the route. Dinner is served in the evening (dishes to choose from based on chicken, fish, beef or vegetarian option) and breakfast is brought to your compartment in the morning. Only beverages are extra.
Yes, the Watania Sleeping Trains overnight train is considered a safe and comfortable option. Each cabin can be locked from the inside. Bunk beds are equipped with safety bars to prevent falls. On-board staff are available throughout the journey and alert passengers to stops 20 minutes in advance.
Yes, Watania Sleeping Trains serves both Luxor and Aswan. Train 87 connects Aswan to Cairo serving 14 stations, including Luxor, Qena, Sohag and Asyut. Trains 82 and 86 connect Cairo to Luxor serving 8 intermediate stations.
