Tipping can easily get out of hand when you are being swept away by the amazing experiences you have on your southern African safari.
Although tipping is not compulsory, game lodge staff do rely on it to supplement their wages. However, tipping should only ever be based on merit. In this way it has the extra benefit of encouraging exceptional service. This is to everyone’s advantage.
Local Currency is Best
Tipping in local currency is usually preferable, although US dollars and other major currencies are often accepted at hotels, lodges and other places directly involved in the tourism industry. When you are arranging money for your trip be sure to ask for it in small denominations.
Foreign coins offer nothing more than novelty value to staff as they can’t be exchanged into local currency. It is important to note that US bills printed before 2008, or those that are excessively worn or damaged may not be accepted anywhere.
It makes sense to familiarize yourself with the exchange rate before you start handing out 100-dollar bills. When you do the math, Africans get a lot of bang for one buck. Exchange rates from one country to another vary considerably, for example one Kenyan shilling is worth about 20 times the amount of a Tanzanian shilling.
The Truth About Tipping
Ultimately, it’s your decision as to how much you want to tip and any guidelines you come across are only there to give you an idea of the norm. No more.
As in other countries, a tip should reflect the service you receive. Use your discretion when tipping to ensure that it matches the experiences you have during your vacation.
At game lodges, it is customary to tip the guide, tracker, butler, waiter and back of house staff. Remember to set aside some cash for tipping during day trips to places outside of your southern African safari accommodation too.
Plan Ahead
It pays to work out a rough budget for tipping before you leave. Rather spread the load evenly among all the staff at the end of your stay than tipping randomly every day. Many southern African safari lodges have a tip box at Reception where your contributions will be spread evenly among their employees.
Should you feel that the expectation is too much, rather spare a few dollars for the people that work tirelessly behind the scenes during your stay. High profile employees benefit from tips all the time and these lower-key personnel are often the ones that earn the smaller salaries.
When in Doubt, Ask
Different lodges have different expectations regarding tipping.
Be sure to ask your safari operator to check on any rules for tipping when you do your booking. Some lodges may add a percentage for tips onto your bill.
Any questions? Get in touch for all your southern African safari-related queries and we’ll put you in the picture before you leave.
