Cairo Day Tours
For American travelers, tipping is a standard part of daily life. However, the tipping culture in Egypt—known locally as baksheesh—operates on a slightly different frequency. It is less about a strict percentage at the end of a meal and more about a continuous exchange of small gratuities for services rendered throughout the day.
If you don't know the unwritten rules, figuring out who to tip and how much can be a major source of travel anxiety. This guide will demystify the process so you can tip confidently and respectfully.
Understanding "Baksheesh"
In Egypt, baksheesh is a vital part of the local micro-economy. Many workers rely heavily on these small tips to supplement their incomes. You will be asked for baksheesh for handing you paper towels in a restroom, carrying your bags, or even pointing out a good photo spot at a temple. The key is to carry a stack of small bills and view it as a cultural experience rather than a scam.
Suggested Tipping Guidelines (in USD Equivalents)
While local Egyptian Pounds (EGP) are always preferred for small tips, small pristine US bills ($1 or $5) are widely accepted. Here is a realistic breakdown for 2026:
|
Service Provider |
Suggested Amount |
When to Tip
|
|---|---|---|
|
Private Egyptologist / Guide |
$15 - $20 per person, per day |
At the end of your time with them (or end of the tour). |
|
Private Driver |
$5 - $10 per person, per day |
At the end of the day or the end of the trip. |
|
Restaurant Waitstaff |
10% - 15% of the bill |
Leave cash on the table, even if a "service charge" is on the receipt (the charge rarely goes to the waiter). |
|
Hotel Bellhop / Baggage |
$1 - $2 per bag |
Upon delivery to your room. |
|
Housekeeping |
$2 - $3 per day |
Leave on the pillow each morning. |
|
Restroom Attendants |
$0.50 (approx. 10-20 EGP) |
When entering or exiting the restroom. |
|
Nile Cruise Crew |
$30 - $50 total per passenger |
Usually placed in a communal tip box at the reception on the final day. |
The "Pre-Paid Tipping" Solution
Constantly reaching into your wallet and doing mental math can detract from the magic of the Pyramids. We completely understand this frustration.
When you book a full itinerary with Kemerya Tours, we offer a "Tipping Kitty" or pre-paid gratuity option. You can pay a flat amount at the beginning of the trip, and our tour managers will handle all the small tipping (drivers, bellhops, hotel staff, cruise crew) on your behalf. You only have to worry about tipping your main guide at the very end if you feel they provided exceptional service. It is the ultimate way to enjoy a stress-free Egyptian vacation.
-webp.webp "Luxor West & East Banks Private Day Tour")
-webp.webp "Giza Pyramids Camel or Horse Riding Tour")
-webp.webp "Hurghada Desert Safari")
