Tanzania Safari Tipping

REASONS FOR TIPPING

• Tipping is a way to express gratitude for good service and acknowledge the efforts and dedication of those who take care of you.
• For safari guides in particular, tips can constitute a significant portion of their income.
• Even small amounts matter. Tipping helps establish a more fair socio-economic balance between tourists and locals.

WHO TO TIP

• Tips can go to all staff directly or indirectly involved in your safari.
• Especially your safari guide, who typically accompanies you for several days around the clock, should be considered for tipping.
• Other staff such as drivers, waiters, housekeeping, kitchen, security, maintenance personnel etc. can also receive smaller tips.

HOW TO TIP

Methods may vary, but there are several common approaches:

• Tipping box: Many establishments provide a locked box in the lobby where guests can leave their tips. The manager distributes the collected tips among the staff.
• Through the manager: If there is no tipping box, guests can hand their tips to the manager upon departure.

• Personal tipping: Alternatively, guests can personally tip the staff based on the service provided. You can give your safari guide a tip for the whole trip at the end of your safari.
• Tipping on credit card bills: Some lodges and camps offer the option to add tips to your credit card bill.

HOW MUCH TO TIP

The amount of tip can depend on various factors, including the level of service, the size of your group and your personal satisfaction. Here's a rough guideline for tipping in Tanzania, based on industry standards:

• Private safari guide: 10 - 30 US dollars per guest per day
• Private safari chef: 5 - 10 US dollars per guest per day
• Other staff: 1 - 2 US dollars per guest per day

ADDITIONAL TIPS

To simplify tipping, consider the following:

• Check your itinerary and think of situations where tipping is appropriate, so you can estimate amounts in advance.
• Ensure you carry enough cash and keep tips in separate envelopes to facilitate distribution.
• You can use US dollars or Tanzanian shillings.