Exchanging USD/EUR to EGP in Egypt: real experience from chats
Short answer
Carry USD or EUR and exchange them for Egyptian Pounds (EGP) locally at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs, as paying in EGP is more cost-effective and widely accepted. Ensure banknotes are newer than six years and be prepared to carry physical cash, as international cards are not universally accepted.
From real experience
1. **Local Currency (EGP) Preference:** It is generally more advantageous and widely accepted to pay with Egyptian Pounds (EGP).
2. **International Bank Cards:** While useful, they are not universally accepted. 3. **Currency Exchange:** Exchange foreign currency to EGP upon arrival at ATMs or bank counters (requires passport). The exchange rate is usually comparable to online rates. 4. **Cash:** Carry physical currency (banknotes not older than 6 years) as some shops only accept EGP cash.
✓ 1 report from chats
When traveling to Egypt, it is recommended to bring USD or EUR and exchange them for Egyptian Pounds (EGP) locally, as exchanging RUB to EGP in Russia is challenging.
Payment in EGP is generally more cost-effective. EGP can be obtained at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs. The largest EGP banknote is 200 EGP, so travelers should be prepared for a larger volume of cash for significant purchases.
✓ 1 report from chats
When exchanging currency in Egypt, be aware of the following: Exchanging USD to EGP is generally straightforward in banks or exchange offices with favorable rates.
However, exchanging EGP back to USD or other currencies is often unfavorable and may only be possible through informal channels or hotel staff. It's advisable to plan your currency needs in advance and use reputable exchange points. Consider exchanging money in your home country or using ATMs for withdrawals if possible, though fees may apply.
✓ 1 report from chats
To exchange US Dollars (USD) to Egyptian Pounds (EGP) in Sharm El Sheikh, the airport exchange office located to the right upon exiting is a convenient option.
In Hurghada, ATMs are generally a better choice for currency exchange compared to the airport.
✓ 1 report from chats
In Hurghada, US Dollars (USD) and Euros (EUR) can be easily exchanged for Egyptian Pounds (EGP) at banks, exchange offices, and ATMs.
Russian Rubles (RUB) are generally not exchanged at official points. However, some informal currency changers may exchange RUB in larger amounts (e.g., from 10,000 RUB), but at a very unfavorable exchange rate.