Money and Tipping in Egypt: What You Actually Need to Know

Travel Tips · 6 min read · Published 2026-02-05

Cash or card, how much to tip, and how to handle the Egyptian pound. A simple, practical money guide.

Money in Egypt is straightforward once you know the basics. The two things to get right are carrying enough small cash and understanding tipping, which is woven into daily life here.

The currency The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). You'll get the best rate withdrawing from ATMs in Egypt rather than exchanging large amounts of cash in advance. Take out what you need in stages, and keep some smaller notes back for tips.

Cash or card? Hotels, nicer restaurants and bigger shops usually take cards, but Egypt is still very much a cash economy for everyday things: tips, markets, small cafes, taxis and entry to some sites. Always carry cash, and never rely on card alone.

Tipping, explained simply Tipping, known as baksheesh, is normal and expected for small services, and it's modest money. A few rules of thumb: a small note for the person who helps with bags or watches your shoes, a bit more for restaurant staff, and a meaningful tip for your guide and driver at the end of a tour, since they're central to your experience.

Roughly who to tip Hotel porters and housekeeping, restaurant servers, the boat or cruise crew, drivers, and your guide. None of it is huge individually; the trick is simply having small notes ready so you're never caught out.

A couple of tips on tips Tip in Egyptian pounds rather than foreign coins, which can't easily be exchanged. And budget a small daily amount for baksheesh as a normal part of your trip rather than an annoyance; it genuinely smooths the day and is appreciated.

On our tours We're happy to give you clear guidance on sensible amounts so you never feel unsure. For the bigger picture on costs, see our guide on <a href="/blog/egypt-trip-cost">how much an Egypt trip costs</a>.