When traveling to Tanzania, it’s essential to plan for tipping. While tipping may not be customary in every culture, it is a standard practice in Tanzania. Whether climbing Kilimanjaro, on safari or simply staying at a hotel, tipping is a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent service.
Tipping Your Kilimanjaro Mountain Crew
The most significant tipping expense during your trip will be for your mountain crew on Kilimanjaro. These hardworking individuals ensure your safety, comfort, and success on the climb.
Let’s start with the largest tip. This is the tip you give to your mountain crew. After all, they did the hardest work and deserved the largest tips. But what is a good tip? We know that once it is all said and done, you’ll probably feel like the amount you give won’t feel like enough. However, the US Dollar goes a long way in Tanzania. So our staff will appreciate what you give them. You do not need to convert your money to Tanzanian Shillings.
To make tipping easier, we follow the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Program (KPAP) recommended guidelines on all aspects of guide and porter payments and welfare. KPAP publishes recommended tipping amounts for all operators.
- Guide: $25 per day
- Assistant Guide: $25 per day
- Cook: $15 per day
- Summit Porter: $15 per day
- Porter: $10 per day
These amounts are for the entire group, not per climber. During the pre-climb briefing, you’ll receive details about your crew size, which depends on your group size and the number of days on the mountain.
Tipping by Group Size and Trip Length
| GROUP SIZE | 6 DAYS | 7 DAYS | 8 DAYS | 9 DAYS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 570 | 665 | 760 | 855 |
| 2 | 495 | 578 | 660 | 743 |
| 3 | 390 | 455 | 520 | 585 |
| 4 | 338 | 394 | 450 | 506 |
| 5 | 354 | 413 | 472 | 531 |
| 6+ | 325 | 379 | 433 | 488 |
Note: Longer climbs or additional services, such as private toilet rentals, require more porters, slightly increasing the tipping total.
Example Crew Size
| CLIENTS | GUIDE | ASSISTANT GUIDE(S) | COOK(S) | PORTERS | SUMMIT PORTERS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 1 |
| 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 2 |
| 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 13 | 2 |
| 5 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 16 | 3 |
| 6 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 19 | 3 |
| 7 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 21 | 4 |
| 8 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 24 | 4 |
| 9 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 27 | 4 |
| 10 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 30 | 4 |
At the end of your climb, a “tipping ceremony” will be held. Your group will collectively decide on tipping amounts, and a representative will announce the tips to ensure transparency. Expect a celebration filled with singing and gratitude before returning to your hotel.
Still confused? Don’t worry we will cover tipping more in-depth at the trip briefing. If you want to know the number of people on your climb, keep an eye on it on the Dates and Prices page. We book a total of 10 people per climb.
Tipping on Safari
If you’ve booked a safari, tipping your guide is equally important. A good rule of thumb is $25–$30 per day, regardless of the number of passengers. For example, on a 5-day safari, a tip of $125–$150 is appropriate.
Tipping Around Town
Throughout your trip, you’ll encounter situations where small tips are appreciated. For example:
Luggage Porters: Tip $1 per bag when someone helps carry your luggage at hotels or lodges.
Hotel Staff: Consider leaving $1–$2 daily for housekeeping or exceptional service.
Final Thoughts
Tipping in Tanzania is more than a customary practice; it’s a way to support the hardworking individuals who make your journey unforgettable. Whether climbing Kilimanjaro, exploring on safari, or relaxing at a lodge, showing gratitude through tipping ensures your team feels valued.
By following these guidelines, you’ll contribute to the well-being of those who work tirelessly to make your trip extraordinary.
