Tipping on Safari in Tanzania: A Fair Guide for Guides, Drivers & Staff

Why is Tipping Customary in Tanzania? In Tanzania, like in many service-based economies worldwide, wages in the tourism sector can be modest. Tips form a significant and expected part of the income for many individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and on the front lines to make your trip special. It's a direct way to reward excellent service and contributes to the local economy and the livelihoods of families. Many staff members support extended families with their earnings.

General Tipping Guidelines (per group, per day, unless stated otherwise): These are suggestions, not rigid rules. Tip according to your satisfaction and budget.

Service Provider	Suggested Tip (USD)	Notes
Safari Guide/Driver	$20 - $30 per day per group	Your main point of contact, expert, and often friend.
Private Chef (on camping safaris)	$15 - $25 per day per group	For their culinary magic in the bush.
Camp/Lodge Staff (general)	$10 - $20 per day per guest	Often a communal tip box for waiters, housekeepers, kitchen staff, etc.
Porters (Kilimanjaro/Meru)	$8 - $12 per day per porter	Specific guidelines provided by trekking operators.
Transfer Drivers (airport/short)	$5 - $10 per transfer	For safe and timely transfers.
City Tour Guides (half/full day)	$10 - $20 per guide
Lodge Porters (per bag)	$1 - $2 per bag	For carrying your luggage.

How and When to Tip:

• Safari Guide/Driver: Tip at the end of your time with them. An envelope is a discreet way to do this. Some travelers also write a small thank-you note.
• Lodge/Camp Staff: Most lodges have a general staff tip box at the reception. This ensures fair distribution among all staff, including those you might not see (kitchen, laundry, groundskeepers). You can usually tip at check-out. If you wish to tip an individual staff member for exceptional service in addition to the general tip, do so discreetly.
• Camping Safari Crew (Cook, Camp Hands): If you have a dedicated cook and camp assistants on a mobile camping safari, you can tip them as a team at the end of the camping portion, or individually if preferred. Your main guide can often advise on this.

Currency for Tipping:

• US Dollars (USD): Widely accepted and often preferred, especially for larger tips for guides. Ensure notes are relatively new (printed after 2006), clean, and not torn.
• Tanzanian Shillings (TZS): Also acceptable, especially for smaller tips or if you're paying for something in local currency.
• Euros/GBP: Can be accepted, but USD is generally easier for recipients to exchange or use.

A Note on "All-Inclusive": Even if your safari package is "all-inclusive," this typically covers your accommodation, meals, park fees, and activities, but not tips for staff. It's an important distinction.

Remember, the goal of tipping is to show genuine appreciation for good service. The amounts are guidelines, and the spirit in which you give is just as important. A smile and a heartfelt "Asante sana" go a long way in making the staff feel valued.