Currency and Money Tips in Egypt
how can you pay in Egypt?
When you float in a hot-air balloon over Luxor, the Nile shines like a silver ribbon. The temples rise from the desert like timeless guardians. While the view is amazing, managing your money in Egypt helps your trip run smoothly.
Understanding the Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Egypt’s official currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP), often shortened to LE (from the French “livre égyptienne”). You will find banknotes in amounts of 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5 pounds. Coins are not as common, but they are available in 1 and 50 piastres.
For reference:
– A bottle of water costs about 5–10 EGP.
– A short taxi ride in Luxor may cost 40–60 EGP.
– A simple local meal can cost 80–100 EGP.
It’s important to carry small bills, as many vendors and drivers may not have change for larger bills.
Luxor Tours & Activities
Looking to save some costs on your travel? Why not join a shared group tour to explore Luxor, Egypt? Here are some activities you might be interested in:
Currency Exchange in Egypt
Exchanging money is easy, but where you do it matters.
– Banks and official exchange offices: These offer reliable rates and security.
– Hotels: Convenient but usually have worse rates.
– Street exchangers: Best to avoid because of scams and counterfeit risks.
Tip: Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate use. Then use banks or official offices in the city for better rates. Always ask for a receipt and count your money before leaving the counter.
Using ATMs in Egypt
ATMs are common in cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, but they are less reliable in rural areas.
Withdrawal limits are usually 8,000 EGP per transaction.
Be aware that Egyptian banks may charge fees, and your home bank may add foreign transaction fees.
For safety, use ATMs inside banks or malls. Avoid ATMs in isolated areas and cover your PIN when you enter it.
Carry both cash and cards for flexibility, especially when you travel outside major cities.
Cash vs. Cards: What Works Best
In Egypt, cash is very important. You need cash for taxis, markets, small shops, and tips.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, nice restaurants, and malls, with Visa and Mastercard being the most widely accepted.
Before you travel, check with your bank about foreign transaction fees.
A good plan is to use cards for bigger purchases and keep cash for everyday expenses.
Tipping in Egypt: What You Need to Know
Tipping, or baksheesh, is an important part of Egyptian culture. It is not just a thank-you; it is expected in many situations.
– Guides and Drivers: Tip 50–100 EGP based on service.
– Hotel Staff: Give 20–30 EGP for housekeeping or luggage help.
– Restaurants: Leave 10% of the bill in cash, even if you pay by card.
– Restroom Attendants and Small Services: Tip 10–20 EGP.
Having small bills for tips is helpful. Some travelers find baksheesh confusing, but accepting it as part of the culture creates goodwill.
Avoiding Scams
Be aware of money-related scams, but you can easily avoid them.
– Fake Notes: Learn how to spot real currency. Real notes have raised ink and clear watermarks.
– Inflated Prices: Always ask for prices upfront, especially in taxis and markets.
– Overcharging Tourists: Bargaining is expected in markets; don’t be afraid to negotiate.
Practical Tips:
– Split your cash into different pockets or bags.
– Use a money belt for larger amounts.
– Keep receipts for big transactions.
Budgeting for Your Trip
Egypt is affordable, but costs depend on your travel style.
– Budget Travelers: Plan for 600–800 EGP per day (street food, hostels, public transport).
– Mid-Range Travelers: Expect to spend 1,200–1,800 EGP per day (comfortable hotels, guided tours, restaurants).
– Luxury Travelers: Budget 3,500+ EGP per day (five-star hotels, private guides, fine dining).
Egyptian currency
Got a Question?
F.A.Qs
The official currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP), also written as LE. Notes are more common than coins, and you’ll often hear locals refer to prices in “geneh,” the colloquial word for pound.
Yes, but only in hotels, tourist shops, or for larger transactions. Everyday purchases—like taxis, street food, or local markets—require Egyptian pounds.
Banks and official exchange offices offer the most reliable rates. Avoid street exchangers to reduce the risk of counterfeit notes.
ATMs are common in major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, but less reliable in rural areas. Always use machines inside banks or malls for safety.
Carry a mix. Cash is essential for small purchases and tipping, while cards are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and malls. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express.
Learn to recognize genuine notes (raised ink, watermarks).
Always ask for prices upfront.
Bargain in souks—it’s part of the culture.
Split your cash and avoid carrying all your money in one place.
Bring some USD or Euros to exchange upon arrival, then use ATMs for topping up. This ensures you always have local currency without carrying too much cash.
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