Traveling to Egypt, whether on an all-inclusive resort stay, a Nile River cruise, or an independent tour, often raises questions about tipping etiquette. Known locally as baksheesh, tipping is an ingrained part of Egyptian culture and a vital source of income for many service workers. Understanding how much to tip in Egypt helps you budget appropriately and ensures you show respect for the hard-working staff who enhance your travel experience.
This article covers tipping norms for all-inclusive resorts and common service providers, from tour guides to drivers, as well as practical advice on cash, daily budgets, and the overall cost of a trip to Egypt.
How much to tip in Egypt all inclusive?
Even in all-inclusive packages where meals, beverages, and some activities are pre-paid, tipping remains customary for housekeeping, bartenders, waitstaff, and concierge services. Recommended guidelines:
- Housekeeping: EGP 50–75 per room per day placed daily on the pillow
- Bartenders/Waitstaff: EGP 20–25 per drink or meal.
- Concierge/Porters: EGP 50-100 per service, depending on luggage or special requests.
- Spa Therapists: 10–15% of the treatment cost, in cash directly to the therapist.
How much do you tip in Egypt in US dollars?
- Housekeeping: U$D 1–1.5 per room per day.
- Bartenders/Waitstaff: U$D 0.25–0.50.
- Concierge/Porters: U$D 1–2.
Many resorts bundle a small service charge, but it rarely replaces direct tipping. Always carry small denominations of Egyptian pounds to tip on the spot.
Show appreciation for excellent service, keep Egyptian pounds handy for tips!
How much do you tip a tour guide in Egypt?
Guides are often the most visible face of Egyptian tourism, enriching your visits to the Pyramids, Karnak Temple, or Abu Simbel. Their expertise and flexibility warrant generous tips:
- Group Tour Guide: U$D 5–10 per person per day
How much do you tip a private tour guide in Egypt?
Private guides who curate custom itineraries and handle logistics deserve higher gratuities:
- Standard Full-Day Guide: U$D 20–25 per day.
- Luxury or Specialized Guides: U$D 30–40 per day, for historians, Egyptologists, or desert-safari specialists.
- Short Excursions (Half-Day): U$D 15–20.
Tip in cash at the end of the day or tour, ideally in U$D or EGP. A simple handwritten thank-you note can be a heartfelt way to show your appreciation and leave a lasting impression
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How much to tip hotel staff in Egypt?
Apart from housekeeping and bartenders at all-inclusive resorts, various hotel staff assist you during your stay:
- Bellhops/Porters: EGP 10–20 per bag
- Valet: EGP 10–20 per retrieval
- Front-Desk Concierge: EGP 20–50 for special services (restaurant bookings, tickets)
- Maintenance/Handyman: EGP 20–30 per request if they solve issues promptly
If your hotel includes a 10% service charge, you can still tip directly for exceptional service.
How much do you tip housekeeping in Egypt?
Around 1–2 U$D per room per day.
How much to tip a driver in Egypt?
Whether you hire a private car for a day trip or use taxis, tipping drivers is customary:
- Private Day-Trip Driver: U$D 5–10 per day, especially if they assist with luggage, sightseeing stops, and water provision.
- Airport Transfer Drivers: U$D 1–1.50 each way
Always tip at the end of service. If your driver doubles as a guide, consider tipping at the higher private-guide rate.
How much do you tip a taxi in Egypt?
Round up the fare or add 10%, For example, on a 45 EGP ride, tip 5 EGP.
What is the best way to pay in Egypt?
The best way to pay in Egypt depends on where you are and the type of transaction. Here are some key points to consider:
- Cash (Egyptian Pounds – EGP) is widely used for small purchases, tipping, and local markets.
- Credit/debit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but cash is recommended as a backup.
- ATMs are available for withdrawing EGP, though bank fees may apply.
- Mobile payment apps like CIB Smart Wallet and QNB ALAHLI E-Wallet are increasingly popular for local transactions.
- Foreign currency (USD, EUR, GBP) may be accepted in tourist areas, but exchanging to EGP is preferable for better rates.
Is it better to use cash or credit card in Egypt?
Using both cash and credit cards in Egypt can be beneficial, depending on the situation:
- Credit cards are commonly accepted in major hotels, upscale restaurants, and large retail stores, making them convenient for higher-value purchases. However, cash remains essential for everyday transactions like shopping at local markets, using taxis, or giving tips.
- When it comes to tipping in Egypt restaurants, cash is typically preferred and handed directly to the server. On the other hand, tipping in Egypt hotels may involve giving small amounts to housekeeping, bellboys, or other staf, often in cash and sometimes placed in a shared tip box. To make the most of your trip, it’s best to carry both cash and a card.
How much cash do I need per day in Egypt?
Budget roughly:
- Cairo & Luxor/Aswan (non-all-inclusive): U$D 40–60 per person, covering street food, local transport, minor tips, and entrance fees.
- Resorts (all-inclusive): U$D 5–10 per day for tipping staff.
- Day Tours/Private Excursions: U$D 20–30 per day for guide/driver tips and lunch.
Carry a mix of EGP and U$D. ATMs are common in cities but less so in remote areas; plan accordingly.
Is 2 dollars a good tip in Egypt?
Yes, 2 U$D (≈ 100 EGP) is well received for exceptional service such as a full-day driver or tour guide.
Is 50 EGP a good tip?
50 EGP (≈ 1 U$D) is generous for bellhops or concierge if they assist significantly (multiple bags, special requests).
Is Egypt cheap or expensive?
Compared regionally, Egypt is very affordable:
- Local Meals: U$D 1–3 (fuol, koshari)
- Mid-Range Restaurants: U$D 10–20 per person
- Luxury Dining: U$D 30+
- Hotels: U$D 30–100 for mid-range; U$D 150+ for luxury resorts
Overall, travelers find Egypt to be a budget-friendly destination that offers excellent value.
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Summary:-
Gratuities in Egypt aren’t just a polite gesture, they’re an essential part of the local economy and a meaningful way to show appreciation for good service and warm hospitality. By understanding the tipping culture in Egypt and how much to tip in Egypt by following basic guidelines, especially when it comes to tipping in all-inclusive settings, you’ll be able to tip appropriately, enjoy smoother interactions, and build genuine goodwill throughout your Egyptian adventure.
