Tipping in Egypt: What You Need to Know Before Your Trip (2025)

Feeling unsure about tipping in Egypt? Don’t worry—I was in the same boat! This guide breaks it all down in a simple, practical way so you know exactly who to tip, when, and how much.

Tipping in Egypt isn’t just polite—it’s part of everyday life. If it’s your first time here, you might be asking: who do I tip, how much, and is tipping in Egypt really that big of a deal?

I’ve been there. Coming from Spain, where tipping isn’t such a thing, I was totally lost when I first arrived in Cairo (you can check out my 3-day Cairo itinerary here). I had no clue what was expected and ended up in a few awkward situations—plus some late-night Googling to figure it all out.

So if you’re feeling unsure, you’re not alone! In this post, I’ll walk you through Egypt tipping culture, who to tip, how much to give, and a few tips in Egypt I wish I’d known earlier. It’s easy once you get the hang of it—and it definitely shouldn’t stop you from visiting. Egypt is absolutely worth it.

This blog post is all about tipping in Egypt

Why Tipping in Egypt Is So Common

In Egypt, tipping—known locally as baksheesh—is expected in most situations. Whether you’re checking into a hotel in Luxor, touring the famous temples of Egypt, or even using a public restroom, small tips are a normal part of how things work.

So why is Egypt tipping such a big deal?

• Many workers earn very low base wages and rely on tips to make a living
• Most tourism jobs are freelance or seasonal
• Tipping is a sign of respect in Egyptian culture
• It helps build warm, friendly exchanges between locals and visitors

Whether you’re visiting the Pyramids of Giza or exploring a Nubian village near Aswan, you’ll quickly see how common tipping in Egypt really is.

At first, I wasn’t sure if people were genuinely helping or just hoping for a tip. But once I realized how much locals rely on these tips in Egypt, it all clicked. Within a few days, I had a stash of small bills ready to go—and honestly, you get used to it fast.

Egypt Tipping Etiquette: Who to Tip and How Much

Wondering who expects a tip in Egypt—and how much is actually fair? Here’s a simple guide to Egypt tipping etiquette so you don’t get caught off guard during your trip.

1. Tipping Hotel Staff in Egypt

Hotel staff are some of the people who rely most on tips in Egypt. Wages in hospitality are low, so those small bills really matter. Tipping also makes your stay a lot smoother—trust me.

Here’s what’s typical for hotel tipping in Egypt:

• Bellhops and porters: 10–20 EGP per bag. At luxury hotels, 50 EGP is more common.
• Housekeeping: 20–30 EGP per night, left on your pillow or desk—or all at once when you check out.
• Concierge: 50–100 EGP if they help with bookings, transportation, or anything extra.
• Room service: 10–20 EGP per delivery, especially if a tip isn’t already added.

Need help picking the right hotel? Check out my guides on where to stay in Cairo, where to stay in Aswan, and where to stay in Luxor. I’ve got recommendations for every budget—with photos and honest reviews.

2. Tipping at Restaurants and Cafés in Egypt

Eating out in Egypt? Tipping is definitely part of the culture. Even when your bill includes a 10–15% service charge, it usually goes to the restaurant—not your server. A little cash tip shows appreciation and supports the people behind your meal.

Here’s a quick guide to restaurant tipping in Egypt:

• Sit-down restaurants: Add 5–10% in cash. I usually leave 20–50 EGP depending on the service.
• Buffets: 50–100 EGP directly to the staff, especially if they’re clearing your plates or helping you out.
• Bars and lounges: 50 EGP per drink is common. If you’ve got table service, tip 10% in cash.
• Cafés and casual spots: Rounding up or leaving 10–20 EGP is a nice touch.
• Fast food chains: No tip needed.
• Street food vendors: Not required, but rounding up or leaving a few coins is appreciated.

Hungry yet? Check out my full Egyptian food guide for all my favorite must-try dishes—from taameya to om ali.

3. Tipping Drivers in Egypt: Taxis, Uber, and Tours

Tipping drivers in Egypt isn’t always required, but in touristy areas—or when someone goes out of their way to help—it’s a kind gesture that’s always appreciated.

Here’s what I usually tip drivers in Egypt:

• Uber or Careem: Round up or give 5–10 EGP in cash. Some drivers don’t get paid immediately through the app, so a small tip can really help.
  (Not sure how rideshares work in Egypt? Here’s my full Uber guide.)
• Taxis (non-metered): Always agree on the price first, then round up by 5–10 EGP if they’re friendly or helpful.
• Private drivers for tours: 50–100 EGP per day is standard. For multi-day trips or exceptional service, I usually give 100–150 EGP per day.
• GoBus or other long-distance buses: No tip needed—but if someone helps with your luggage, 10 EGP is a nice thank-you.
• Boat rides (like crossing the Nile): 20–50 EGP is typical for short, private crossings.

If you’re planning longer transfers or want to book a private driver ahead of time, I highly recommend 12Go Asia. I’ve used them across Egypt and other parts of Asia—they’re super reliable and easy to book with.

Need help with negotiating prices? Here’s how I haggle while traveling—and yes, it works in Egypt too!

4. How Much to Tip Tour Guides in Egypt

If you’re joining a tour in Egypt—whether it’s a day trip from Cairo to Alexandria or a 3-day adventure in the Siwa Oasis—be ready to tip your guide. It’s part of the culture and really helps support the locals who make these experiences so special.

Here’s what’s typical for tipping tour guides in Egypt:

• Half-day group tour: 100–150 EGP per person
• Full-day group tour: 150–250 EGP per person
• Private guide: 200–300 EGP per day (more if they go above and beyond)
• Tour driver: 50–100 EGP per day

For multi-day tours, I usually wait until the last day to tip. My entire Egypt trip was organized by Medjet Travel, and my guide Mohammed was incredible—he got 500 EGP per day from me, paid in full at the end. And honestly, he totally earned it.

Bonus Tip: I like to include a handwritten thank-you note and tuck the tip into an envelope. It feels more personal—and locals really do appreciate that extra touch.

5. Tipping on a Nile Cruise in Egypt

Tipping on a Nile cruise is super straightforward. Instead of tipping each staff member, you leave one envelope at the end that gets shared with the whole crew—housekeepers, waiters, kitchen staff, and even the engine team.

Here’s what’s typical:

• General guideline: $10 USD per person, per night
  (So if two people are on a 5-night cruise, that’s about $100 USD total.)
• How to tip: Most cruises provide an envelope on the last day. Just fill it out and drop it off at reception—preferably when other staff members are around, so it feels more appreciated and transparent.
• Guides: If you have a personal guide on your cruise, tip them separately. A good rule of thumb is 30% of your total cruise tip.

When I did my Aswan to Luxor Nile cruise, I actually loved this system. No awkward tip moments every time someone brought me tea—just one thoughtful thank-you at the end.

6. Everyday Tips in Egypt: Temples, Toilets & Markets

Not all tipping in Egypt happens at hotels and restaurants. Some of the most confusing—and honestly frustrating—moments were the small everyday ones.

Especially at places like the Temple of Kom Ombo or the Valley of the Kings, I never knew if someone was just being friendly… or expecting a tip. Spoiler: it’s usually the latter.

Here are a few situations to keep in mind:

• Temple staff or guards: Someone might offer to take your photo, unlock a gate, or give a “secret” tour. I usually gave 10–20 EGP, or up to 50 if the info was actually useful.
• Public toilets: 5–10 EGP is standard, even if you’ve already paid to get in. It often includes a tissue or helps keep the place clean.
• Spas and salons: Just like at home, tip 10–15% for massages, facials, or beauty treatments.
• Markets and vendors: Tipping isn’t expected—but if someone helps carry your stuff or gives you samples, 20–50 EGP is a nice gesture.

My rule of thumb? If someone makes your day a bit easier or goes out of their way to help, a small tip is a simple (and appreciated) way to say thanks. 💛

When Not to Tip in Egypt

That said—tipping in Egypt doesn’t mean handing out money to everyone who talks to you. Just because someone offers “help” doesn’t mean it’s actually helpful (or worth tipping for).

Tipping should feel like a genuine thank-you, not an obligation. If someone didn’t truly assist—or made you uncomfortable—it’s completely okay to skip it.

Here’s when you can confidently skip it:

• If someone’s being aggressive: At tourist sites, some people will start giving you unsolicited “tours” or pushy photo ops, then demand a tip. Don’t feel guilty—just say “la, shukran” (no, thank you) and walk away.
• At markets and shops: In places like Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, you’re not expected to tip for browsing or bargaining. Only tip if someone genuinely helps, like wrapping your item or carrying bags.
• When there’s already a service charge: Some restaurants and hotels include a 10–15% service fee. You can leave a little extra if the service was great, but it’s totally optional.
• At official sites: Places like the Grand Egyptian Museum or Coptic Cairo have salaried staff who usually don’t expect tips—unless they go out of their way to help.
• If the experience wasn’t good: Tipping is about appreciation. If someone was rude, unhelpful, or made you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to walk away without tipping.

Top Egypt Tips for Tipping Like a Local

Tipping in Egypt can feel confusing at first—but once you get the hang of it, it’s really straightforward. These are the Egypt tips I wish someone had told me before my trip:

• Get familiar with the currency. The national currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Knowing the exchange rate helps you avoid tipping too little—or too much. (As of June 2025, 1 USD = 50 EGP.)
• Cash is king. Most tipping in Egypt is done in cash—even at high-end restaurants and luxury hotels. Don’t count on your credit card, and don’t assume the service charge is enough.
• Carry small bills. You’ll need 5, 10, and 20 EGP notes constantly. Break larger bills at your hotel, a café, or money exchange as soon as you land.
• Tip in Egyptian pounds. Some people might accept USD or euros, but it’s always better to tip in local currency. And skip the coins—€1 or $1 coins can’t be exchanged and are pretty useless to locals.
• Know what’s fair. Small tips—like 5, 10, or 20 EGP—are perfectly normal. You don’t need to go overboard. Egyptians usually tip small amounts too.
• Use common sense. Not everyone who offers “help” deserves a tip. If the gesture felt pushy or unhelpful, it’s totally fine to walk away.
• Ask if you’re unsure. Not sure how much to tip your driver, guide, or boat captain? Just ask your hotel or tour operator—they’re used to it and happy to help.

Pro Tip: Download the XE Currency app to check exchange rates quickly. It’s a game changer when jet lag has your brain foggy and you’re trying to figure out if 500 EGP is a little… or a lot.

Is Egypt Expensive? Real Travel Costs

Short answer? Not really. Egypt is one of the most affordable countries I’ve traveled to in the Middle East and North Africa. Whether you’re backpacking on a budget or splurging on a luxury Nile cruise, your money stretches a lot further here.

As a budget traveler, you can easily spend under $40 USD per day. And if you’re mid-range or luxury, you’ll get boutique hotels, private drivers, and full-day guided tours for a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe or the U.S.

Here’s a rough breakdown of daily travel costs in Egypt:

Expense	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Hotel per night	$15–30	$50–100	$150+
Meals	$2–5 (local)	$10–20	$30+
Transport	$1–3 (local)	$5–15	$50+
Attractions	$5–15 per site	Same	Same
Daily Total	$25–40	$60–120	$200+

Even if you’re ticking off bucket-list experiences like visiting the stunning Philae Temple or going hot air ballooning over Luxor, Egypt still offers incredible value. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort if you’re on a budget—and if you do want to splurge, you’ll be amazed at how far a little extra can go.

FAQs About Tipping in Egypt

Before we wrap up this ultimate guide to tipping in Egypt, let’s quickly answer some of the most common questions travelers have about “baksheesh”—the local word for tipping.

Final Thoughts on Tipping in Egypt

Tipping in Egypt can definitely feel confusing at first—I’ve been there! But I hope this guide makes you feel more confident about when to tip, how much, and who actually expects it.

Just remember: tipping is a simple way to show appreciation. Keep small bills handy, tip when it feels right, and don’t worry about getting it perfect. Even a small gesture means a lot here.

Got questions or a story to share about tips in Egypt? Drop a comment or send me a message—I’d love to hear from you.

Other Egypt Travel Guides You Might Enjoy:

• 10 Truly Unique Things to Do in Cairo You Won’t Find in a Guidebook
• The Absolute Worst Time to Visit Egypt – Here’s When to Avoid!
• Why You Need to Visit Edfu Temple – Egypt’s Hidden Treasure
• 5 Best Things to Do in Aswan for a Peaceful Nile-Side Escape
• 7 Epic Things to Do in Luxor – From Temples to Tombs

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