Egypt Currency Guide: EGP, USD, Tipping and ATMs

Egypt's currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP or £E), divided into 100 piastres. Exchange rates fluctuate; check XE or Google before you fly. Cash is widely used, especially outside upscale hotels and restaurants.

How much cash to bring

Bring $200–400 USD in mixed small bills ($1, $5, $10, $20). Use USD for visa on arrival ($30) and keep small bills for tips. Change USD or EUR into EGP as needed at bank ATMs or licensed exchange offices — never street changers.

ATMs

ATMs are common in cities and tourist areas. Use ones from major Egyptian banks: CIB, QNB, HSBC, Banque Misr, National Bank of Egypt. Withdrawal limits are usually 4,000–6,000 EGP per transaction. Notify your home bank of your travel.

Credit cards

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, malls and airline offices. Amex is spotty. Small shops, taxis, souks and rural areas are cash-only. Always carry some EGP.

Tipping (baksheesh)

• Restaurants — 10% if service is not included.
• Hotel porter — 20 EGP per bag.
• Housekeeping — 20 EGP per day.
• Tour guide — 100–200 EGP per day per person.
• Driver — 50–100 EGP per day.
• Small helps (photo of monument, restroom attendant) — 5–10 EGP.