04/05/2018
Sharm El Sheikh, a jewel on the Red Sea Riviera, beckons travellers with its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and bustling markets. While the allure of luxury resorts is strong, truly experiencing the city and saving your hard-earned cash often comes down to mastering local transportation. Far from being a daunting task, navigating Sharm El Sheikh's transport network can be an adventure in itself, allowing you to immerse yourself deeper into the local culture while keeping your holiday budget firmly in check. Forget expensive private transfers; this guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to traverse Sharm El Sheikh like a seasoned local, making every journey an economical and authentic part of your Egyptian escape.
Understanding the city's layout is the first step towards efficient and affordable travel. Sharm El Sheikh is a sprawling city, divided into distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character and purpose. Knowing where you are and where you want to go will significantly impact your transport choices and costs. Let's explore these key areas:
- Plateau of Um El Sid (Hadaba): Often considered the most populated residential area, Hadaba offers a glimpse into local life. It's a bustling district with shops, cafes, and a more authentic vibe away from the main tourist hubs.
- Old Market: As its name suggests, this is the oldest part of the city and serves as a vital transport hub. It's a fantastic place to shop for souvenirs, spices, and local goods, and it's where many minibus routes originate.
- Hay El Nour District: Primarily a residential area, this is where many of the city's workers reside. It connects well with other parts of Sharm, offering a more local experience.
- Naama Bay: The heart of Sharm El Sheikh's tourism, Naama Bay is famed for its array of tourist hotels, lively markets, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. It's a central point for many visitors.
- Sharks Bay: Home to Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, Sharks Bay is often the first and last impression many visitors have of the city. It also hosts a number of resorts.
- Nabq Bay (Ghargana): Located further north along the coast, Nabq Bay is characterised by its numerous hotels and resorts. It's a rapidly developing area known for its newer, larger establishments.
- Ruwaisat: Another significant area, particularly known as a transport interchange.
Each of these areas is interconnected by a network of public transport, primarily minibuses, which are your best friend for budget-friendly exploration.
Embracing the Minibus Network: Your Wallet's Best Friend
The minibus system in Sharm El Sheikh is incredibly efficient and remarkably cheap, especially when compared to private taxis. These small, often white or blue, vans operate on set routes, although they might not always be clearly marked. The key to using them is understanding their starting points and general directions, and not being afraid to ask the driver. The vast majority of minibus routes originate from the Old Market area, making it a central hub for navigating the city.
Minibus fares are incredibly consistent and affordable, typically ranging from a mere 2 to 5 Egyptian Pounds (EGP) maximum, depending on the distance. This fixed, low pricing makes them an unbeatable option for daily travel. Here's a breakdown of common routes and their approximate fares, which are surprisingly consistent and easy to remember:
- From the Old Market to Naama Bay: 2 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to Hadabet Um El Sid area: 2 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to El Nor district: 2 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to Delta Sharm: 2 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to Mobile El Ruwaisat: 2 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to Carrefour: 2 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to Sharks Bay: 4 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to El Montazah Bay: 4 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to Nabq Bay area: 5 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to El Salam Park: 5 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to El Ruwaisat: 5 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to Mobil to the New Traffic: 5 Egyptian Pounds
- From the Old Market to Wadi Mandar: 10 Egyptian Pounds
It's important to note that the minibus lines are quite logical. For instance, there’s a line from the Old Market to Al Hadaba, passing by local landmarks like the city council and police department. Another popular line connects the Old Market to Naama Bay, serving areas like Delta Sharm and Sharm El Sheikh International Hospital. Each stop on these shorter lines typically costs 1 EGP. For longer journeys, such as the third line that extends past Naama Bay, through the airport, and all the way to Nabq (Gharqana), the fare might increase to 3 EGP for most of the journey, with the maximum being 5 EGP if you're heading to the very end. You can even ask the driver to drop you off at specific hotel entrances, like Savoy Sharm El Sheikh Hotels, if they are slightly off the main road; this might cost you no more than an additional 5 EGP, but always confirm with the driver beforehand.
There's also a crucial line connecting the El Nour neighbourhood with Ruwaisat, serving as an important local artery. For journeys outside the immediate city, there's a single line linking Sharm El Sheikh to the capital city of Al-Tur, which costs around 10 EGP.
While minibuses are your go-to for budget travel, taxis offer convenience and direct routes, especially for those not keen on navigating local transport or travelling late at night. However, the taxi experience in Sharm El Sheikh requires a different approach to ensure you get a fair price. Officially, Sharm El Sheikh taxis have a meter, with an opening fee of 5 EGP and additional pounds for every 5 EGP after that. In practice, however, most taxi drivers prefer to agree on a price for the entire trip rather than using the meter. This is where your negotiation skills come into play.
When hailing a taxi, always agree on the fare before you get into the vehicle. Have an idea of what a fair price should be (using minibus fares as a baseline can help, but expect taxis to be significantly more expensive). Don't be afraid to haggle; it's part of the local culture. If a driver quotes an unreasonably high price, simply move on to the next one. There are plenty of taxis available, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Naama Bay and the Old Market.
Cost Comparison: Minibus vs. Taxi
To illustrate the stark difference in cost, let's look at some popular routes. While exact taxi fares will vary based on negotiation, the minibus prices are fixed and provide a clear benchmark for savings.
| Route | Minibus Fare (Approx. EGP) | Estimated Taxi Fare (Negotiated, Approx. EGP) |
|---|---|---|
| Old Market to Naama Bay | 2 | 30 - 50+ |
| Old Market to Hadaba | 2 | 25 - 40+ |
| Old Market to Sharks Bay (Airport) | 4 | 60 - 100+ |
| Old Market to Nabq Bay | 5 | 80 - 150+ |
| Naama Bay to Hadaba | (Requires transfer at Old Market, ~4) | 40 - 70+ |
As you can see, opting for minibuses can lead to substantial savings, freeing up your budget for other holiday delights like excursions, dining, or souvenirs.
Top Tips for Saving Money on Transport
- Embrace the Minibus: This is by far the most economical way to get around. Don't be intimidated; locals are generally helpful. Just flag one down going in your direction, confirm the destination, and hop on.
- Always Negotiate Taxi Fares: If you opt for a taxi, never get in without agreeing on the price first. If the driver insists on using the meter, be wary, as it's often not the preferred method for tourists.
- Have Small Change Ready: Especially for minibuses, exact change or small denominations (1, 2, 5 EGP notes) will make your life much easier and avoid potential issues with drivers not having change for larger notes.
- Learn Key Phrases: Knowing a few basic Arabic phrases like 'Kam sa'ar?' (How much?) or pointing to your destination on a map can be incredibly helpful.
- Walk When Possible: For shorter distances within areas like Naama Bay or Hadaba, walking is not only free but also a great way to discover hidden gems and soak in the atmosphere.
- Consult Hotel Staff: While they might suggest their preferred (often more expensive) transport options, they can give you a general idea of fair taxi prices for common routes.
- Be Patient: Sometimes, waiting a few minutes for the right minibus or a more reasonably priced taxi can save you money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sharm El Sheikh Transport
Q: Is public transport safe in Sharm El Sheikh?
A: Yes, public transport, particularly minibuses, is generally considered safe for tourists. They are frequently used by locals and are a common mode of getting around the city. Exercise standard travel precautions, especially at night.
Q: How do I know which minibus to take?
A: Minibuses usually have their general destination written on the front, often in Arabic. However, the best way is to simply ask the driver or point to your destination on a map. They are usually happy to guide you.
Q: Can I hail a taxi anywhere?
A: Yes, taxis are plentiful and can be hailed from almost anywhere on the main roads. They are easily identifiable, often being orange or white.
Q: What if a taxi driver refuses to negotiate?
A: If a taxi driver is unwilling to agree on a fair price, or insists on a meter that seems to be running too fast, it's best to politely decline and find another taxi. There is always another one around the corner.
Q: Are there specific taxi stands?
A: While taxis can be hailed anywhere, you'll find concentrations of them around major tourist areas like Naama Bay, the Old Market, and outside hotels. These are good places to start your negotiation.
Q: Do minibus drivers speak English?
A: Some may speak basic English, enough to understand common destinations. However, don't rely on it. Having your destination written down or clearly pointing it out is always a good idea.
Q: What are the operating hours for minibuses?
A: Minibuses operate from early morning until late at night, typically until midnight or even later in busier areas. However, frequency decreases in the late hours, and taxis become the more common option.
Conclusion
Saving money on transport in Sharm El Sheikh is not just about cutting costs; it's about enriching your travel experience. By understanding the city's geography, embracing the incredibly affordable minibus network, and mastering the art of taxi negotiation, you can navigate Sharm El Sheikh with confidence and ease. This approach allows you to stretch your holiday budget further, enabling more adventures, more delicious meals, and more unforgettable memories. So, next time you're in Sharm, ditch the expensive rides and jump into the heart of local life – your wallet, and your adventurous spirit, will thank you for it!
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