Quick Answer Egypt's currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP, written E£ or LE), divided into 100 piastres. On a Nile cruise you can pay most onboard bills by card or in major foreign currencies, but you will need Egyptian pounds in small notes for tips, markets and local purchases. ATMs are easy to find in Luxor and Aswan. Bring a mix of a debit card, a credit card and some US dollars or euros. |
Money questions come up on every Egypt trip: how much cash to carry, whether cards work and where to exchange. This Egyptian currency guide explains the banknotes, the Egyptian pound exchange rate, using credit cards in Egypt, ATMs in Luxor and Aswan and how much cash to bring to Egypt for a Nile cruise.
Last updated: October 2026. Exchange rates change daily; check a live rate before you travel.
Key Takeaways
- The Egyptian pound has floated since March 2024, so its value can change.
- Banknotes come in EGP 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200.
- Cards are widely accepted on cruise ships, in hotels and larger shops.
- Small notes are essential for tips, toilets and markets.
- Exchange money at banks, official exchange offices or ATMs, never on the street.
Egyptian Banknotes and Coins
| Denomination | Type | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 25 and 50 piastres, EGP 1 | Coins | Rarely needed by tourists |
| EGP 5 | Note | Small tips, toilet attendants |
| EGP 10 | Note (polymer and paper) | Small tips, snacks |
| EGP 20 | Note (polymer and paper) | Tips, drinks, small purchases |
| EGP 50 | Note | Markets, taxis |
| EGP 100 | Note | Restaurants, shopping |
| EGP 200 | Note | Larger purchases |
Newer polymer EGP 10 and 20 notes circulate alongside older paper versions. Both are valid.
The Egyptian Pound Exchange Rate
Since Egypt allowed its currency to float in March 2024, the exchange rate has been set by the market and can move over time. Use a reliable currency app or your bank's website to check the latest rate before your trip and during your stay. The official rate at banks and ATMs is generally fair, and there is no reason to use unofficial money changers.
Where to Exchange Money
- Banks: reliable, with official rates; branches in Luxor and Aswan.
- Exchange offices (bureaux de change): found in airports and city centers, usually quick and fair.
- Airport counters: convenient on arrival for your first cash and visa fee.
- Hotels and cruise ships: convenient but sometimes less favorable rates.
US dollars, euros and pounds sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange. Bring clean, undamaged notes, as torn or marked notes may be refused.
ATMs in Luxor and Aswan
ATMs are widely available in Luxor and Aswan, especially along the Corniche, near major hotels and in bank branches. Most accept international Visa and Mastercard cards and dispense Egyptian pounds. Tips:
- Use ATMs attached to banks during opening hours if possible.
- Check your home bank's foreign withdrawal fees.
- Decline the "dynamic currency conversion" offer and choose to be charged in EGP.
- Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid blocked cards.
Using Credit Cards in Egypt
Cards are accepted on Nile cruise ships, in hotels, large restaurants, supermarkets and many tourist shops. Smaller cafés, local markets, taxis and street vendors usually require cash. Some shops add a surcharge for card payments. Contactless payments are increasingly common in cities.
On board, most cruise ships let you charge drinks and extras to your cabin and settle the bill at the end by card or cash. Ask at reception which cards and currencies are accepted.
How Much Cash to Bring to Egypt
For a typical 4-night Nile cruise, many travelers find the following useful as a guide, in addition to card payments:
| Expense | Suggested Cash |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (if needed) | 30 USD per person, in cash |
| Crew and guide tips | Around 60–100 USD per person for a 4-night cruise |
| Small daily tips and toilets | A stack of EGP 5, 10 and 20 notes |
| Markets and souvenirs | Depends on shopping plans |
| Drinks on board | Often payable by card |
| Optional excursions | Check whether card payment is accepted |
Carrying some US dollars or euros is helpful for larger tips and emergencies, while Egyptian pounds cover daily needs.
Practical Money Tips
- Break large notes at hotels, banks or supermarkets to keep a supply of small notes.
- Keep tip money separate from your main wallet.
- Use a money belt or zipped bag in crowded markets.
- Check change carefully, especially between similar-looking notes.
- Agree prices before services such as carriage rides, felucca trips and taxis.
- Keep receipts for currency exchange, which can help if you want to convert pounds back before leaving.
Customs Rules
Travelers entering or leaving Egypt with large amounts of foreign currency, generally above the equivalent of 10,000 USD, must declare it. Limits also apply to carrying Egyptian pounds in and out of the country. Check the latest rules with Egyptian customs before you travel.
Travel Without Money Worries
Our team explains exactly what is included and which costs to budget before you travel. Read our tipping guide and cost breakdown, or contact us.
