What to Expect on a Sleeper Train in Egypt: First Class

First Class train at Aswan Station

One of my favorite elements of my Egypt expedition with Travel Talk Tours was the modes of transportation we took. A highlight of that was our two nights on Egypt's sleeper train. 

This post gives you some insight into what taking a sleeper train in Egypt is like. 

Abu Simbel

If you're planning on visiting Abu Simbel, Aswan or Luxor, you can either fly, drive, or take a sleeper train.

Taking an Egyptian sleeper train is truly a chaotic but magical experience.

Cairo train station is insane. If you are female-identifying, this is the one place I strongly suggested covering your shoulders and bottom modestly. While I never felt unsafe, there are many people at the train station and dressing conservatively will save you from unwanted attention.

I suggest having someone who speaks Arabic with you to help sort out the train announcements. Although, it will be pretty obvious which train is yours. Tourists tend to ride First Class, and I'd advise you do the same. Although, don't expect First Class to be of the same quality as in the US or Europe.

Third, Second, and First class are all different trains. That means that the entire train is dedicated to your class. The third and second class trains are extremely chaotic, and not for the anxious.

When staying in first class, you will be assigned a small roomette and an included meal. Additional snacks and beverages are available for purchase from your car attendant.

We loved our train attendant on the ride down to Aswan. We got along so well that he even asked for a group photo with us to show his wife!

Our First Class Roomette

You will be sharing a bathroom with about 20 other people. Bring some flip-flops and remember not to flush the toilet when the train is stopped for semi-obvious reasons.

The trains in Egypt go fast, and as a result, you are bouncing all over the place. So hold on when walking around!

The sleeper train in Egypt is by no means a luxury experience, but I had a blast with the adventure of it all.

If you are a regular traveler searching for a bit of adventure, give the sleeper train a try. If you're more of a nervous person, consider booking a flight down to your location.