Tipping

Tipping in Kenya and Tanzania or across East Africa is not compulsory,yet it is a meaningful way to recognize the people who make your safari safe, comfortable, and memorable. These guidelines reflect industry standards, including practices used by leading safari operators

Safari Driver-Guides
Your guide is the core of your journey—spotting wildlife, ensuring safety, sharing knowledge, and spending long hours with you in the field.

Suggested Tip:
– USD 10–20 per person per day, or
– USD 20–40 per day for couples or families giving one combined envelope

Lodge & Camp Staff
Most safari camps use a shared staff tip box to distribute tips fairly among housekeepers, waitstaff, chefs, porters, gardeners, and security teams.
Suggested Tip:
– USD 5–10 per person per day

Porters
For handling your luggage on arrival or departure:
– USD 1–2 per bag

City Transfers & Short Excursions
For airport pick-ups, drop-offs, or town transfers:
– USD 5–10 per vehicle

Balloon Safari Crew
Balloon safaris operate with a large support team,and tipping is customary but optional:
– USD 10–20 per person

When to Tip
– Guides: On the final day of your safari.
– Lodge staff: At check-out using the shared tip box.
– Porters & transfer drivers: Immediately after the service.

How to Tip
– Use USD, EUR, GBP, or local currency (KES/TZS).
– USD bills should be 2009 or newer.
– Place guide tips in an envelope.
– Use the communal staff tip box at lodges.

Families & Groups
Families and groups may leave one combined tip for the guide. At lodges, the standard is per person per day in the staff box.

Why Tipping Matters
Safari camps operate in remote locations with long working hours. Tipping directly supports hardworking staff and rewards excellent service.

Special Occasions or Enhanced Services
If your safari includes special requests—private guiding, photography outings, extended hours, or celebrations—an additional tip is appreciated but never expected.

What Not to Do
– Avoid giving sweets or coins to children.
– Avoid handing out money publicly.
– Avoid excessive tipping when unsure; use the guidelines.

Quick Reference Summary
Safari guide: USD 10–20 per person/day
Lodge staff: USD 5–10 per person/day
Porters: USD 1–2 per bag
Transfer drivers: USD 5–10 per vehicle
Balloon crew: USD 10–20 per person

DISCLAIMER!!
These are industry guidelines. Tipping is voluntary and should reflect your satisfaction.

FAQ: Why Isn’t Tipping Included in Salaries in Kenya & Tanzania?

1. Are tips excluded to avoid government taxes?
   No. Salaries and service charges are taxable in Kenya and Tanzania.
   If gratuities were included in the official salary, they would be taxed as normal income—so tourism operators keep tips separate to allow guests to give them voluntarily and directly.
   This keeps wages fair and transparent, not tax-driven.
2. Why don’t operators include tips in the safari price?
   Because safari service is highly personalized. Some guests request long days, photography guiding, special assistance, or unique experiences.
   Tipping allows guests to reward service based on their own satisfaction, not a fixed amount.

3. Are safari staff underpaid without tips?
   No. Staff receive regular salaries set by their employers. Tips are a bonus, not a replacement for wages (unlike some U.S. industries).And so it were to be included on the their Salary the Safari packages will increased following the deductions by the governments
4. Why do safari guides and lodge staff prefer this system?
   It rewards effort, expertise, and excellent service. Guides take pride in earning tips directly from guests.
5. Is this practice common in Africa?
   Yes. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and South Africa all use the same tipping structure.