This is a ubiquitous question that we often get asked by travelers days before about Tipping on Safari on their safari, “How much and who “, this is, of course, a very personal choice and a very hard one for us to answer definitively. While it has become expected, one should not feel forced to tip.
This guide is aimed at helping you understand how much to tip, who to tip when, and how to tip. We have split our advice based on various accommodation and experience types to make it as easy as possible.
Who to Tip
On safari, many people work behind the scenes to make your experience very memorable. Each role has its tipping guidelines.
Whereas the non-safari lodges and hotels. (i.e., city, beach, mountain) It is more straightforward - a single tip for the staff is equally divided among them.
To note,
We’ve put the below details in US Dollars for simplicity but see the section below, what currency to tip in as it varies depending on the country.
Each figure is per guest, per day, however the below are Just Guidelines on the tipping perspective.
Safari Lodges;
- Guide / Ranger: $20 per day
- Tracker /Scout: $15 per day
- General staff: $20 (shared among all staff)
- Butler: $10 per day (only when required)
- Porters: $ 3 per guest per movement
Note: Some safari lodges have trackers and some don't.
Non - Safari Lodges & Hotels
- General staff: $20 (shared among all staff)
- Butler: $10 per day (where applicable)
Extras - Massage therapist: $10 per treatment
- Local tour guide/sightseeing excursions: $15 per tour
- Golf caddies:20% to 30% of the caddie fee
Transfers
- $5 to $10 per movement
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda
- Guides: $20 per trek, per guest (usually 2 guides each tipped after the trek)
- Trackers: $15 per guest
It is customary to include guides, trackers, security personnel (rangers) and porters when tipping on a gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda or Uganda.
Restaurants
- 10% to 15 % of the total price (depending on the service)
Beach Destinations
- Beach skippers: $ 10 - $20 per day
- PADI staff: $15 per day
When To Tip
You will generally tip at the end of your stay at a hotel or lodge.
For non-inhouse guided activities and transfers, tip at the end of each activity. for example, during gorilla trekking, guidance is not offered by the hotel staff. At restaurants tip at the end of your meal.
How to Tip
Cash or Card?
Cash is always preferred; prepare cash before your journey, for it is unlikely to come across an ATM in safari areas, and some properties don't accept cards. The hotels provide safes to keep your money safe.
How Tipping Works at The Hotel /Lodge
Tipping methods vary depending on the hotel you are staying at. Usually, there is a tip box at the reception; if not, the host/manager will advise to whom tips should be handed. Some places provide tipping envelopes in your room to separate your tips for different staff members.
What Currency to Tip in East Africa?
Shillings (Uganda, Kenya & Tanzania) and Rwanda Francs are accepted, however, preferred. US Dollars, British Pounds, and Euros are accepted on safari.
NB: Ensure international bank notes are in small denominations ($5, $10, $20 notes) and crisp condition, as many African banks will not accept large, imperfect notes. Remember, tipping is discretionary. Only tip if you genuinely feel that the service you have received warrants it. Different cultures approach tipping differently, so never feel pressured to contribute more than you’re comfortable with. For More Information about our Guidelines on Your Incredible Safari, please contact us
