Currency hacks: Egypt
The quirk: Dual exchange rate + cash culture
What's going on
Egyptian pound (EGP) devalued sharply in 2023-24. Official rate vs. parallel rate gap fluctuates.
The smart-traveler strategy
- Bring USD cash for hotel + tour payments — often cheaper than EGP.
- Withdraw small amounts from ATMs as needed — exchange rate decent.
- Carry small EGP bills (10s + 20s) for baksheesh (small tips).
- Major hotels accept USD; smaller venues EGP only.