Arriving at Sharm El Sheikh Airport (SSH) and getting to your hotel or the city center is usually straightforward, though it’s good to have a plan. Your options range from readily available taxis to pre-booked private transfers and shared shuttles, each offering a different balance of cost, convenience, and travel time. Understanding these choices will help you start your trip smoothly.
Official taxi stands are generally located just outside the arrivals area. Look for clearly marked signage directing you to them. It’s best to only use taxis from these designated stands to avoid potential issues with unlicensed drivers. Before getting in, confirm the approximate fare with the driver, or ensure they will use the meter. Expect to pay somewhere between 10 and 20 USD to reach most hotels in Sharm el Sheikh, depending on the distance and time of day. Be prepared to negotiate a little, especially if the meter isn’t used.
Pre-booking a private transfer is a popular choice for a hassle-free arrival. Many companies offer this service. Typically, you’ll receive instructions on where to meet your driver – often inside the arrivals hall with a sign displaying your name. Confirm the meeting point details in your booking confirmation. Prices for private transfers usually range from 25 to 50 USD, depending on the vehicle type and destination. This option provides door-to-door service and peace of mind, especially if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or arriving late at night.
Shared shuttle services and minibuses are a more budget-friendly option, but they involve more stops and can take longer. These are often available from desks within the airport, or sometimes you can pre-book. Expect to pay around 5 to 15 USD for a shared shuttle. If you’re comfortable with local transport and traveling on a budget, public buses are also an option, though they require a walk to the nearest bus stop outside the airport and may involve transfers. Travel times on buses will be significantly longer. Trains are not a practical option for reaching Sharm el Sheikh from the airport.
The time it takes to reach your destination depends heavily on traffic, the time of day, and the amount of luggage you have. During peak hours, the journey to the city center or popular resort areas can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes. To nearby cities like Dahab, expect a transfer time of around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, while Nuweiba is typically a 2.5 to 3.5 hour drive.
| Option | Typical Time Range | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 20-45 minutes | 10-20 |
| Private Transfer | 20-45 minutes | 25-50 |
| Shared Shuttle | 45-90 minutes | 5-15 |
| Train/Metro | Not Applicable | N/A |
| Bus | 60-120+ minutes | 2-5 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Look for clearly marked taxi stands just outside the arrivals area. Avoid drivers approaching you inside the terminal.
Using taxis from the official stands is generally safe. Always confirm the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
Many companies offer online booking. Ensure you receive clear meeting point instructions in your confirmation.
Around 10 to 20 USD, but this can vary depending on traffic and the time of day.
Yes, shared shuttles are usually more affordable, but they take longer due to multiple stops.
Public buses are available, but require a walk and may involve transfers. They are best for budget travelers with time.
Expect a transfer time of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours by taxi or private transfer.
Negotiate a fare before starting your journey. If you can’t agree, consider finding another taxi.
Most reputable companies monitor flight arrivals and will adjust accordingly. Confirm this with your provider.
It’s best to have local currency (USD is widely accepted) as many taxi drivers don’t accept cards.
Check your booking confirmation for contact details and call the company immediately.