Tipping Kenya guide – An In-Depth Guide | Annest Kenya Safaris
Navigating the appropriate tipping etiquette can be quite complex, particularly during a Kenyan safari. To make this easier for you, here are some key pointers for tipping while you explore Kenya’s coastal regions, cities, and national parks.
Should You Tip in Kenyan Shillings?
When it comes to tipping in Kenya, it’s best to use Kenyan shillings whenever feasible, as locals may struggle to exchange small amounts of foreign currency in East Africa. If you don’t have Kenyan shillings on hand, tipping in US dollars is also permissible, but be cautious with larger denominations like a $50 bill, as they can be difficult to exchange.
Upon your arrival in Kenya, your tour guide can assist you in locating currency exchange services. Usually, your travel itinerary will allow time for this at Nairobi‘s airport before you proceed to your hotel at the start of your journey. Ensure you exchange enough currency, as your spending is important in Kenya. The money you use for local transactions and tips plays a vital role in supporting the African economy.
Tipping in Restaurants and Bars
Tipping Kenya guide
While tipping is not a widespread custom in local restaurants or bars, it is certainly appreciated, especially for excellent service. Conversely, tourist-focused restaurants in Kenya have different expectations. Similar to practices in North America and many European nations, a typical tip of around 15% is anticipated based on the level of service provided.
Tipping in Hotels Throughout Kenya
In hotels, lodges, and camps, it is customary to leave a tip for individual waitstaff or bartenders, or you may choose to add a tip to your bill before signing it if you are charging it to your room. Hotel porters generally expect a tip of about US$1 per piece of luggage, which is approximately 110 Kenyan shillings. If you are staying overnight, keep this in mind.
Tipping Kenya Guide for a Safari in Kenya
When you go on a guided safari in Kenya, it’s standard to leave a tip at the conclusion of your trip. This also applies to any pre-arranged tours. A general guideline is to budget around US$20 or 2,000 Kenyan shillings per room or tent each day. If you’re solo, a tip of 1,000 Kenyan shillings is typically appropriate. For families sharing accommodations, consider increasing the tip to about $25 per person daily.
In Kenya, many safari workers depend on tips for their livelihoods, helping them meet basic needs like food and shelter. Therefore, your gratuities can significantly impact their lives. Your safari will be memorable and promote a valuable cultural exchange.
What is the appropriate tip for your driver in Kenya?
It’s advisable to allocate half of the suggested daily tip to your driver or guide, with the other half going to the lodge or camp support staff. You can leave your tip in a designated box at the reception or personally give it to the manager in an envelope.
Remember that drivers and guides do not share tips from the box, so it’s crucial to provide their tips separately, usually upon departure. Occasionally, a spotter may accompany the driver, sitting at the front during game drives to help spot wildlife. Depending on their involvement, consider giving them a separate tip or suggesting the driver share part of their tip with the spotter. Spotters or local apprentice guides are often found in East Africa’s national parks, like the Masai Mara, and can greatly enhance your game drive experience, so their contributions should be acknowledged
