Money and tipping in Egypt

Downtown Cairo and a Nile bridge seen from aboveRepresentative photo

Currency and money

The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). USD and EUR are accepted at hotels, larger shops, and most tourism vendors. Cards work in cities; carry small EGP notes for tips, taxis, market stalls, and public restrooms (5–20 EGP each). ATMs are common in cities and major resorts; withdraw modest amounts at a time.

Tipping (baksheesh)

Tipping is part of the service economy here. As a guideline:

  • Egyptologist guide: USD 30–50 per touring day for the group.
  • Driver: USD 10–15 per touring day.
  • Hotel housekeeping: USD 1–2 per night.
  • Restaurant: 10% if not already added as service.
  • Felucca / boatman: 50–100 EGP per group.

Tipping is always discretionary — only tip when service was good. We never include tips in the trip price.

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