Egypt, with its ancient pyramids, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage, is a popular travel destination. Tipping, known locally as baksheesh, is a deeply ingrained part of Egyptian society. While tipping is not always mandatory, it is widely expected and appreciated in many service situations. Understanding when and How Much to Tip in Panama”>Much to Tip in Europe (France, UK, Italy, Germany, Spain, etc.)”>how much to tip can help you navigate your travels smoothly and ensure you show gratitude to those providing services. Here’s a comprehensive guide to tipping in Egypt.

Tipping at Restaurants and Cafés

Restaurants in Egypt typically include a service charge, but leaving an additional tip is customary for good service.

• Sit-down restaurants: A 10-15% tip is standard if a service charge is not included. If it is included, adding 5-10% directly to the server is appreciated.
• Casual eateries and local spots: Tipping 5-10% is a nice gesture, especially in smaller establishments.
• Cafés and coffee shops: Leaving 10-20 EGP ($0.50-$1 USD) or rounding up the bill is polite.
• Buffets: If waitstaff assist with drinks or clearing tables, a 5-10% tip is appropriate.
• Delivery services: A tip of 10-20 EGP ($0.50-$1 USD), depending on the order size, is recommended.

Tipping Hotel Staff

Hotels in Egypt, from budget accommodations to luxury resorts, expect tipping for most services.

• Bellhops and porters: Tipping 20-50 EGP ($1-$2 USD) per bag is customary.
• Housekeeping: Leaving 20-50 EGP ($1-$2 USD) per night is a generous way to show gratitude.
• Concierge: If they assist with reservations or special requests, tipping 50-100 EGP ($2-$5 USD) is appreciated.
• Room service: If a service charge isn’t included, tipping 10% of the bill is recommended.
• Spa and wellness staff: A 10-15% tip is standard for massages or treatments.

Tipping Taxi and Rideshare Drivers

Taxi drivers in Egypt don’t expect large tips, but rounding up the fare is a common practice.

• Taxi drivers: No fixed percentage is required, but rounding up or adding 10-20 EGP ($0.50-$1 USD) for good service is appreciated.
• Rideshare drivers (Uber, Careem): A 5-10% tip is appreciated for exceptional service.
• Airport transfers and private drivers: Tipping 50-100 EGP ($2-$5 USD) for long rides is a generous gesture.

Tipping Tour Guides and Excursion Staff

Tour guides and excursion staff in Egypt often rely on tips as a major part of their income.

• Group tours: Tipping 50-100 EGP ($2-$5 USD) per person is standard.
• Private tour guides: Tipping 200-400 EGP ($10-$20 USD) per day is appropriate for personalized service.
• Drivers on guided tours: If separate from the guide, tipping 50-100 EGP ($2-$5 USD) per day is recommended.
• Boat excursions: Crew members appreciate 50-100 EGP per person, depending on the service quality.

Tipping at Spas and Salons

Spas and beauty services in Egypt follow tipping practices similar to restaurants.

• Massage therapists and spa staff: A 10-15% tip is expected.
• Hairdressers and beauty salons: Tipping 10-15% of the bill is customary.
• Manicurists and estheticians: A 5-10% tip is appreciated.

Tipping Grocery Baggers and Gas Attendants

Certain service jobs in Egypt rely on small gratuities.

• Grocery store baggers: Many work for tips only, so leaving 5-10 EGP ($0.25-$0.50 USD) is common.
• Gas station attendants: If they clean your windshield or check your oil, tipping 5-10 EGP ($0.25-$0.50 USD) is appropriate.

Tipping Street Performers and Musicians

Egypt has a lively street performance culture, especially in tourist areas.

• Street musicians and performers: If you enjoy a performance, tipping 10-20 EGP ($0.50-$1 USD) is a kind gesture.
• Live bands at restaurants: If no service charge is included, tipping 50-100 EGP ($2-$5 USD) for musicians is appreciated.

Final Tipping Tips for Egypt

• Carry small bills and coins. This makes tipping easier, especially in markets and taxis.
• Check your bill before tipping. Some high-end restaurants and hotels include a service charge.
• Be discreet when tipping. Handing a tip directly to the service provider is considered polite.
• Use local currency. While some places accept USD, tipping in Egyptian Pounds (EGP) is preferred by most locals.

Conclusion

Tipping in Egypt is an essential part of daily life, and while some businesses include service charges, additional tips for great service are always welcome. By following these guidelines, you can navigate Egypt’s tipping customs with ease and ensure that you support the local service industry fairly. Enjoy your trip!