If your bags are packed and you’re ready to go, you might be starting to think about all the final details for planning your epic African adventure. Many of our clients ask us how much to tip on safari and we’d say the best way to prepare is to know before you go. Our complete guide to tipping on safari in Africa is designed to help you know what to expect. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s put the final touches on your trip to Africa!
Cash or Credit Card?
One consideration you might not have thought about yet is whether to travel with cash or do your tipping on your credit card. As is always the case the world over, cash reigns supreme. You’ll need to tip in cash for city drivers and trekking teams, however you can opt to place your tips on credit card at the safari bush lodges. To do this, speak to the lodge manager on your last day in camp. They will take you to the office to charge your card and break down the totals you want directed to each staff member or group of staff.
How much to tip?
City restaurants: 10% of the bill at restaurants
Tours/Drivers: $20 per couple per day
Ranger/Guide: $20 per couple per day
Butler: $15 per couple per day
Camp Staff: $15 per couple per day
What currency to tip in on safari?
For most countries, tipping in USD is expected and appreciated. This is true for Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Rwanda and Uganda. In Namibia, however, you will be charged in the countries’ local currency if you are paying your tips via credit card. And in South Africa, you will be expected to tip in South African Rand, however USD will still be accepted. If you are paying your tips via credit card in South Africa, you will be charged in the local currency.
Rwanda
In Cities: 10% of the bill at restaurants
Driver Guide in Cities: $20 per couple per day
Trekking Porters: $20 per porter per trek
Trekking Guide and Trackers: $50 per couple per day
Butlers: $15 per couple per day
Lodge Staff: $20 per couple per day
It is important to note that these tipping guidelines are just that – guidelines. If you had an exceptional stay and wish to tip above average for that special staff member who went above and beyond, this is always appreciated. Safari workers are often working to support their entire families back in the villages, so a little goes a long way!
Read more: Our travel guide to Rwanda
Safari & Zanzibar
In Cities: 10% of the bill at restaurants
Driver Guide in Cities: $20 per couple per day
Ranger/Guide: $20 per couple per day
Tracker: $15 per couple per day
Butler: $15 per couple per day
Lodge Staff: $20 per couple per day
Read more: A luxurious escape to Tanzania & Zanzibar
