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Tipping on a Tanzania safari is a common practice, and it’s a way to show appreciation for your guides, drivers, lodge staff, and porters. While tipping is not mandatory, it is highly appreciated and considered part of safari culture. This Safari Tipping Guideline will help you know who to tip, how much, and when.
Safari guides and drivers often rely on tips as a significant part of their income.
Lodge and camp staff work hard to ensure your stay is comfortable and memorable.
Tipping helps support local communities and wildlife tourism sustainably.
Your guide is your main companion on game drives and safari experiences.
Recommended Tips:
$15–$25 per person per day for a private safari.
For small groups, $10–$15 per person per day is acceptable.
Give tips in cash at the end of the safari.
Tip: Present the tip personally with a “thank you” to make it meaningful.
If your guide and driver are separate, drivers should also be tipped.
Recommended Tips:
$10–$15 per person per day.
Tip at the end of the safari or after transfers.
This includes housekeeping, waitstaff, chefs, and porters.
Recommended Tips:
Housekeeping: $2–$5 per day per room.
Waitstaff / Dining Staff: $2–$5 per meal.
Porters: $1–$2 per bag.
Many lodges have a tip jar at the reception — this can be used collectively for staff.
If your safari includes boat trips, hot-air balloon rides, or guided walking safaris:
Boat or activity guides: $5–$10 per person.
Balloon pilots: $10–$20 per person, if the experience is exceptional.
If traveling with a large group, pooling tips for guides and drivers is acceptable.
Always hand over tips personally, and never leave cash in rooms.
Small gestures like a thank-you card or local gift are appreciated but optional.
Carry small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) — Tanzanian Shillings are less convenient.
Tipping is usually cash only; credit cards are not widely accepted for tips.
Consider the level of service and satisfaction; you are tipping for excellent service, not obligation.
Inform guests before the safari about tipping guidelines to avoid surprises.
| Recipient | Suggested Amount per Person/Day |
|---|---|
| Safari Guide | $15–$25 |
| Driver | $10–$15 |
| Lodge Housekeeping | $2–$5 |
| Dining Staff | $2–$5 per meal |
| Porters | $1–$2 per bag |
| Safari Boat/Activity Guide | $5–$10 |
| Balloon Pilot | $10–$20 |
Tips are typically given to safari guides, drivers, lodge staff, porters, and activity guides. Balloon pilots and boat crew are also tipped if included in your safari.
$15–$25 per person per day is recommended for private safaris. For small groups, $10–$15 per person per day is acceptable.
Drivers usually receive $10–$15 per person per day. Tip at the end of the safari or after transfers.
Housekeeping: $2–$5 per day per room
Dining staff: $2–$5 per meal
Porters: $1–$2 per bag
Many lodges have tip jars for collective staff tips.
Yes. For boat or activity guides, $5–$10 per person is standard. Balloon pilots can receive $10–$20 if the service is exceptional.
Small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) are preferred. Tanzanian Shillings are accepted but less convenient. Cash only; credit cards are rarely accepted.
No, tipping is not mandatory. It’s a gesture of appreciation for excellent service. Follow local safari customs and tip according to your satisfaction.
Yes. Many groups pool tips for guides and drivers. Always hand them over personally at the end of the safari.
Tipping on a Tanzania safari is a sign of gratitude. Following these guidelines ensures your staff feel appreciated while maintaining Tanzanian safari traditions.
At Musabi Serengeti Safaris, we also brief all clients about tipping before their safari starts to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Don’t miss out on an incredible experience! Complete the booking form to secure your spot and prepare for the adventure.
