Tipping Guideline

Tipping is always a popular subject with Tanzania safaris, Kilimanjaro hiking & the overall Tanzania Holiday. Travelers often ask themselves how much should I tip? or why should I tip. After paying for your safari it is only logical asking yourself these questions given the sums already paid for the safari.

Tipping Culture & Origin in Tanzania

Tanzania is not a wealthy country, and Westerners might see the local customary wages as unjust. So it has always been a tradition to tip your safari crew or mountain crew and others who serve you while traveling in Tanzania. In fact, it is fair to say tips are expected when traveling through Tanzania and the crew or servers will feel unappreciated when not tipped.


Why is tipping so important? And why you should tip?

Tipping holds immense importance in Tanzania, particularly in the context of the travel and hospitality industry. While tipping is customary in many places worldwide, it plays a unique role in this region due to the diverse workforce and economic dynamics. Understanding why tipping is crucial and why you should tip can greatly enhance your experience while supporting the local staff who contribute to making your journey memorable.

1. Economic Support for Guides, Cooks, and Staff

Guides, cooks, and other essential staff rely heavily on tips to supplement their incomes. While our company takes pride in providing fair wages that surpass market averages, it's important to acknowledge that most of our crew members work on a temporary basis. The nature of their employment might involve extended intervals between jobs, such as safaris. Tipping serves as a lifeline during these times, ensuring that they have a steady source of additional income. By tipping, you directly contribute to the livelihoods of the people who dedicate themselves to making your adventure exceptional.

2. Expressing Gratitude and Appreciation

The dedication and commitment of our crew members go above and beyond the call of duty. While they fulfill their responsibilities, they also strive to create extraordinary experiences for our clients. For instance, during hikes, some porters willingly carry clients' belongings, and in some cases, even offer physical assistance, all in a bid to increase the chances of reaching the summit. On safaris, guides occasionally extend the evening game drives, risking penalties, to ensure that clients witness remarkable wildlife encounters. These actions exemplify the dedication of our crew to your satisfaction. Tipping is not only a way to acknowledge their extra efforts but also to express gratitude for the lasting memories they help create.

3. Encouragement and Motivation

As employers within the travel industry, we recognize that exceptional talent seeks environments that value and reward their skills. The presence of a reliable tipping system often determines the choices made by top guides and chefs. In some cases, they might opt for a company with lesser base pay but greater earning potential through tips. By understanding this aspect, you gain insight into the pivotal role tipping plays in shaping the quality of service you receive. Your tips not only show appreciation but also contribute to motivating the crew to consistently deliver their best.


How to make sure your tip gets where you intend it to?

1. Direct Delivery for Personal Impact

Handing your tip directly to the individual it's intended for is a simple yet impactful gesture. By doing so, you establish a direct connection with the person who has contributed to your experience. This practice ensures that your appreciation is received firsthand, fostering a sense of acknowledgement and respect. Whether it's a guide who shared their expertise or a cook who crafted delectable meals, your direct interaction amplifies the significance of your tip.

2. Transparency through Envelopes

While personal handoffs are ideal, we understand that there might be instances where you prefer a more discreet approach. Placing your tip in an envelope is an acceptable alternative, preserving your privacy while maintaining the spirit of gratitude. 

3. Group Tips with Equitable Distribution

In certain scenarios, you might opt to provide a group tip to be divided evenly among the crew. This is a considerate approach, especially when you've received exceptional service from multiple team members. However, even in this situation, it's recommended that you take the time to communicate your intentions. Inform the crew that you're providing a collective tip to be shared, so they're aware and can distribute it fairly among themselves.

4. Open Communication

Clear communication is key to ensuring that your tip is received as you intended. If you've chosen to use an envelope or contribute to a group tip, make an effort to inform the crew about your decision. A simple conversation can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that your gesture of gratitude is executed according to your wishes.


When to tip:

Most clients opt to present their tips at the conclusion of the safari, a logical decision considering it's influenced by the overall satisfaction with the service provided by your crew.

Understanding the Absence of Tip Surcharge in Safari Costs

A common question that arises is why safari providers don't include a predetermined surcharge for tips within the trip's total cost. This inquiry stems from the consideration of simplifying the process. However, the unique taxation structure in Tanzania offers insights into the reasoning behind this approach.

Tax Implications and Preservation of Value

Tipping in Tanzania enjoys a tax-free status, a favorable attribute that enhances the direct financial impact on the recipients. Incorporating tips into the trip's cost would lead to the imposition of an 18% Value Added Tax (VAT) on the tip amount. Furthermore, if tips were categorized as official income for the crew, they would be subjected to income tax, subsequently diminishing the net value received by the crew or necessitating an increased tip amount from clients.

Embracing Transparency for Mutual Trust

While we maintain a strong belief in the mutual trust between our team and clients, we are proactive in preserving transparency for everyone involved. Our commitment to clarity extends to the tipping process. To prevent any ambiguity and obviate the need for explanations, we encourage clients to directly present their tips to the deserving individuals. For those who prefer a discreet approach, the option of using envelopes is available, respecting individual preferences while adhering to the values of openness and recognition.


Who to tip:


Factors to consider when tipping:


Tipping currency:

When it comes to expressing your gratitude through tipping, you have the flexibility to choose between foreign or local currency. For the convenience of both you and the recipients, we recommend considering the following currency options: Dollars (USD), Euro (EUR), and Pound Sterling (GBP). These currencies have the advantage of seamless conversion into Tanzanian shillings, enhancing the ease of the tipping process.

USD bill date: Ensure that any US bills you use for tipping are not dated prior to the year 2000. This is due to the fact that such bills are neither accepted within the country nor hold their full value in Tanzania. Keeping this in mind guarantees that your tip retains its intended worth.

For your convenience, it's advisable to prepare a well-considered amount of USD Dollars before arriving in Tanzania. This approach mitigates potential variations in exchange rates, which can fluctuate significantly. 


Tipping Range

Tipping is slightly different on each tour; so here is a guideline that will help you sort and plan thoroughly.

You can tip more or less depending on the performance of the crew. Here are some examples:

It's crucial to note that tipping guidelines differ based on the size of your party and whether you're on a private or group tour. For private tours with two participants, the suggested minimum tip is designed as a baseline. Conversely, for solo travelers, the maximum tip recommendation applies. However, if you're part of a private group consisting of more than three individuals, we advise adhering to the group guide tipping guideline for optimal fairness and consistency. This ensures that your tip aligns with the dynamics of your specific tour configuration, promoting equity while appreciating the efforts of your dedicated guides.


Tipping Guidelines on a Mount Kilimanjaro Assent

Support Porters and Guides

When it comes to tipping on a Mount Kilimanjaro ascent, the perspective differs from that of a safari experience. Tipping here isn't solely about recognizing exceptional service; it plays an essential role in sustaining the livelihoods of porters and guides, making it a vital contribution rather than a discretionary gratuity.

Understanding Porters and Guide Compensation

Unlike other settings, the tips you provide on Mount Kilimanjaro are instrumental in supplementing the wages of porters and guides. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to ensure your climb is safe and successful. The established minimum wages serve as a foundation: $10 USD per day per porter, $20 USD per guide, and $15 USD each for assistant guides and mountain cooks. It's important to note that the nature of their work might lead to time gaps between assignments. Additionally, some companies unfortunately fall short of meeting even these basic wage standards.

Recognizing Fair Compensation

A crucial threshold to consider is the appropriate remuneration for the arduous work these individuals undertake. If the total cost for a 5-day climb is less than $1800 USD, or for a 6-day climb is less than $1900 USD, it's likely that the wage requirements haven't been met adequately. Even when these minimum wage criteria are satisfied, it's worth acknowledging that they still fall short of what can be considered fair compensation. This is precisely why we encourage clients to go beyond these minimums and consider tipping.

Supporting Porters and Guides: Your Impactful Gesture

Your tips directly impact the lives of the porters, guides, and support staff who make your Kilimanjaro ascent possible. By tipping generously, you contribute to a more equitable distribution of income and acknowledge the relentless effort put forth by these individuals. Your contribution reflects not only your appreciation for their service but also your commitment to promoting fair treatment within the industry.


Each group will have:


Tipping Averages:

Note: Joining a group will reduce your tip figure as a tipping obligation will be shared among the group

Tipping Example:

Scenario: 

Climbers choosing treks with more or less should consider an average increase or decrease of $60 USD on their tipping budget.

Note: Climbers who find tipping well above their budget could consider donating hiking gear directly to the crew if they don’t plan on using them again.


Donation of Clothing & Equipment

Clothing and Equipment

An impactful way to extend your appreciation to the climbing team is by considering the donation of your clothing and equipment in addition to the customary tip following your ascent. Keep in mind that the climbing staff scales Kilimanjaro numerous times annually, resulting in rapid wear and tear on their own gear.

Exploring the Donation Option

Consider opening a door of generosity by exploring the option of donating your climbing clothing and equipment to the team. A straightforward inquiry can help identify specific needs. This provides the opportunity for individual contributions that resonate on a personal level. Your donation, no matter the scale, serves as a valuable resource for those who often refrain from allocating their resources to what they perceive as luxuries rather than necessities.

Direct Impact Through Individual Donations

A crucial distinction lies in the directness of your donation. Your items will be most impactful when you personally donate them. By avoiding the practice of handing items to your guide for distribution among porters, you ensure that your intention translates directly to the individuals in need. This approach maintains transparency and guarantees that your generosity isn't lost in translation.

Aid Where it's Needed Most

Direct donations allow you to offer aid where it's most needed, whether to those with pronounced requirements or those who've demonstrated exceptional service. This personalized touch adds depth to your contribution and fosters a connection between you and the individuals whose lives are impacted by your kindness.

Amplifying Gratitude, Easing Hard Work

The climbing team will greatly appreciate your benevolence, an act that not only makes their demanding jobs more manageable but also underscores the sense of community that emerges during the climb. Your donations go beyond material goods; they communicate a recognition of the team's efforts and a deep appreciation for their dedication.


Tipping Ceremony on Kilimanjaro on the last day (after the summit)

As you reach the summit of Kilimanjaro and mark the conclusion of your trek, an important tradition awaits you—the tipping ceremony. This symbolic event takes place on the final day of your expedition, allowing you to express your gratitude to the dedicated staff who've supported you every step of the way.

Gathering for Gratitude: The Tipping Ceremony

Led by the head guide, the entire staff will come together to participate in the tipping ceremony. This is a moment of collective appreciation, a chance for you to acknowledge the efforts and care provided by the team throughout your journey. Their commitment deserves recognition, and the ceremony serves as a meaningful way to convey your heartfelt thanks.

Final Thoughts: Acknowledging Dedicated Service

As you stand at the pinnacle of Kilimanjaro and embark on the concluding phase of your journey, the tipping ceremony brings you full circle. It's a culmination of the camaraderie shared with the team and the shared pursuit of a remarkable achievement. Your tips, whether in USD, EUR, GBP or TSH, are more than financial expressions; they embody your appreciation for the unwavering dedication of those who've guided, supported, and uplifted you throughout the trek. In this ceremony, your gratitude takes center stage, reminding us all that the true summit of Kilimanjaro lies in the connections formed and the mutual respect exchanged along the way.