Egypt Currency Guide: EGP, USD, Tipping and ATMs

Egypt's currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP or £E), divided into 100 piastres. Exchange rates change: check the current rate with your bank or a reliable currency service before travelling, and check the rate and fees offered before exchanging money. Cash is widely used, especially outside upscale hotels and restaurants.

How much cash to bring

The cash you need depends on your itinerary and what you have prepaid; there is no fixed budget suitable for everyone. If you plan to use a visa-on-arrival bank counter, carry US dollars in cash as a fallback and confirm the current fee and eligibility before travel. Exchange money into EGP at banks or licensed exchange offices, not street changers, and keep small notes for everyday expenses.

ATMs

ATMs are common in cities and tourist areas. Prefer machines inside bank branches or reputable hotels. Withdrawal limits and fees vary by bank, card and machine: review the displayed charges and your own bank's terms before accepting. Check whether your bank needs a travel notification.

Credit cards

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, malls, airline offices and — increasingly — at major museums and monuments, which now sell tickets by card or QR e-ticket. Amex is spotty. Small shops, taxis, souks and rural areas are cash-only. Always carry some EGP.

Tipping (baksheesh)

• Restaurants — check whether service is included before leaving an optional tip.
• Hotel porters — keep small EGP notes for tips if you choose to give them.
• Housekeeping — tip according to the service and your budget.
• Tour guides — ask your operator whether gratuities are included; there is no universal daily rate.
• Drivers — check whether a gratuity is included and agree the transport fare separately.
• Small services — ask about any charge before accepting help; tipping is separate from a stated fee.