What is the Currency in Egypt and How to Manage Money? - Emo Tours Egypt: Unforgettable Budget Tours & Travel Deals 2025-2026

What is the Currency in Egypt and How to Manage Money?

  • Official Currency:

    • Banknotes (200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1 EGP).

    • Coins (1 EGP, 50 Piastres, 25 Piastres).
       

  • Exchange Rates:

    • Fluctuations and how to check current rates.

    • Where to exchange money: banks, airport exchange kiosks, hotel exchange desks.
       

  • Cash vs. Card:

    • Cash is King (for small purchases): Essential for street vendors, small shops, taxis, and tipping.

    • Cards: Widely accepted in major hotels, upscale restaurants, large retail stores, and increasingly at official archaeological sites (credit/debit cards only for tickets).

    • ATMs: Widely available in cities and tourist areas; advise checking with your bank about foreign transaction fees and withdrawal limits.
       

  • Bringing Foreign Currency:

    • USD, EUR, GBP are widely accepted in tourist areas and for higher-value services.

    • Best to convert a portion to EGP for daily expenses.

    • Limits on cash brought in/out of the country (e.g., 5,000 EGP, 10,000 USD or equivalent).
       

  • Tipping (Baksheesh):

    • Explain the culture of tipping in Egypt (it's expected and a significant part of income for many).

    • Guidelines for different services: guides, drivers, restaurant staff, hotel staff, camel/horse handlers, bathroom attendants.

    • Advise carrying small denominations of EGP for tipping.
       

  • Budgeting Tips:

    • Research average costs for meals, transportation, souvenirs.

    • Factor in entrance fees and optional activities.

    • Allocate a daily budget for incidentals and tips.
       

  • Emo Tours Egypt's Advice: Our tours often include major costs, reducing the need for constant cash transactions, and our guides can advise on tipping.