Should I exchange money before arriving?

Exchange $100-200 before you go, then use ATMs in Egypt for better rates. Avoid airport exchange counters. Many places only take cash.

How much should I tip?

Tip 10-15% at restaurants, $2-5 for tour guides per day, $1-2 for hotel staff per service. Small tips (1-2 Egyptian pounds) for bathroom attendants and small favors.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Only in upscale hotels and restaurants. Most attractions, local restaurants, and transportation require cash. Bring more cash than you think you'll need.

What's the biggest budget surprise?

Photography fees at major sites (extra $3-10 per location) and mandatory guide fees at some temples. Factor in $20-30 extra for unexpected charges.

How to Budget for a Week in Egypt

Budget $40-60 per day for mid-range travel in Egypt, or $20-30 for budget backpacking. Most expenses go to accommodation, food, and entrance fees to major sites like the Pyramids and Valley of the Kings.

Calculate accommodation costs. Budget hostels: $8-15/night. Mid-range hotels: $25-40/night. Book directly with properties in Cairo and Luxor for better rates than booking sites.
Plan for site entrance fees. Giza Pyramids: $13. Valley of the Kings: $11. Karnak Temple: $8. Abu Simbel: $22. Buy the student card if you're under 30 for 50% discounts.
Set your food budget. Street food: $2-4 per meal. Local restaurants: $5-8. Tourist restaurants: $12-20. Stick to local places and you'll eat well for $10-15 daily.
Factor in transportation. Domestic flights: $80-150. Overnight trains: $30-60. Local buses: $1-3. Taxis in cities: $3-8 per ride. Budget $100-200 total for getting around.
Add activities and extras. Nile felucca ride: $20-30. Desert safari: $40-80. Sound and light shows: $15. Tips for guides: $5-10 per day. Budget $20-30 daily for extras.
Account for shopping. Souvenirs at Khan el-Khalili: Start bargaining at 25% of asking price. Quality papyrus: $10-20. Cotton shirts: $8-15. Set aside $50-100 for shopping.

Should I exchange money before arriving?: Exchange $100-200 before you go, then use ATMs in Egypt for better rates. Avoid airport exchange counters. Many places only take cash.
How much should I tip?: Tip 10-15% at restaurants, $2-5 for tour guides per day, $1-2 for hotel staff per service. Small tips (1-2 Egyptian pounds) for bathroom attendants and small favors.
Are credit cards widely accepted?: Only in upscale hotels and restaurants. Most attractions, local restaurants, and transportation require cash. Bring more cash than you think you'll need.
What's the biggest budget surprise?: Photography fees at major sites (extra $3-10 per location) and mandatory guide fees at some temples. Factor in $20-30 extra for unexpected charges.