Egypt Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Egypt

Renting a car in Egypt offers significant freedom and flexibility for exploring this historically rich country. With a vehicle, you can visit key attractions such as the Giza Pyramid Complex, an archaeological site that provides a deep cultural experience, or the Grand Egyptian Museum, showcasing fascinating artefacts. Both of these sites are conveniently located in Cairo, allowing for easy day trips. If you’re drawn to scenic locations, Naama Bay, known for its beautiful beach and outdoor experiences, is another destination you can access at your leisure.

The convenience of a rental car is especially beneficial for families or groups, as it allows ample space for luggage and the freedom to create your own travel itinerary. You can easily drive to popular cities like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, which feature attractions like Marina Hurghada and Nabq Bay. This flexibility not only enhances your sightseeing experience but also makes managing your travel plans much simpler. By choosing to rent a car in Egypt, you can embark on a truly personal journey through the country’s awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Most popular car hires in Egypt

• Compact: This car option is perfect for those travelling in groups of up to 5 people. With the capacity to accommodate 3 medium suitcases, compact cars are especially suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families. They are ideal for navigating Egypt's urban areas, offering ease of parking and efficiency for your journey.
• Midsize: A popular choice for couples and families, the midsize car comfortably fits up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a balance between space and manoeuvrability, making it a great selection for those looking to explore Egypt while enjoying a bit more room for luggage and passengers alike.
• Economy: If you're seeking a budget-friendly option, the economy car is an excellent choice. It can accommodate up to 5 travellers and supports up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families. This option allows you to save on rental costs while still enjoying the flexibility to travel around Egypt at your leisure.

Where to stay in Egypt

• Sharm El Sheikh: Known for its stunning outdoor and beach experiences, Sharm El Sheikh is a vibrant city that attracts travellers seeking beautiful scenery. Highlights include Naama Bay, ideal for beach holidays and scenic views, as well as Nabq Bay and Naama Bay Beach. Visitors can enjoy nearby shopping centres and a variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a great choice for those looking to relax and explore the local culture.
• Hurghada: A popular destination for families and business travellers, Hurghada offers a lively city atmosphere with plenty of activities. Explore the Marina Hurghada for adventure and beach access, or relax on Mahmya Island Resort. The area features shopping centres and a water park, catering to various interests and age groups. With its blend of urban excitement and leisure options, Hurghada is perfect for a versatile holiday.
• Cairo: As a bustling metropolis, Cairo is rich in culture and history, making it a must-visit for those interested in the ancient world. Key attractions include the Giza Pyramid Complex and the Grand Egyptian Museum, both of which are significant archaeological sites. The city's numerous shopping centres and public markets offer a vibrant local experience, making it an excellent base for exploring Egypt’s historical treasures.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Egypt

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those summer drives, or an economical car to keep costs down, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-sized rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, yet it may be worth it for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards as payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Egypt

The best value period to rent a car in Egypt is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. This is closely followed by November, which also offers good value with slightly low prices and steady demand. June through August see slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making them the most expensive months to rent a car. Meanwhile, December stands out as the busiest month, where demand peaks and prices remain higher.