Tipping Policy
At Africa Prime Experiences, we deeply value the hard work, professionalism, and dedication of our guides, porters, and support staff. Tipping is a customary and appreciated way of showing gratitude for the service provided throughout your journey.
Please note that tipping is not mandatory, but it is always welcomed. Any gratuity should reflect the quality of service you received, rather than the outcome of your safari or trek.
We believe in transparency and responsible tourism. All our staff are fairly compensated, and tipping remains a personal gesture of appreciation, given entirely at your discretion.
Tipping Your Climbing Crew
Tipping your climbing crew is a widely recognized practice in mountain trekking worldwide. While it is never mandatory at Africa Prime Experiences, we encourage clients to show appreciation for their crew's dedication and hard work if their performance meets or exceeds your expectations.
Note: Each climber should expect to contribute US$250–US$350 in total tips for the entire climb — a meaningful way to honor the dedication, hard work, and professionalism of your mountain crew.
Tipping Ceremony
At the end of your climb, after the summit day, a tipping ceremony is held. The head guide gathers the entire team to express gratitude and celebrate the journey. You can tip in US Dollars (USD) or Tanzanian Shillings (TSH).
While tipping is not mandatory, it is highly recommended — as it forms an important part of the crew's income.
Important:
- Only use USD bills dated 2009 or newer, as older notes may be rejected or devalued in Tanzania.
- Prepare your USD before arrival, as exchange rates can vary.
Who to Tip
- Guides
- Assistant Guides
- Cooks & Chefs
- Drivers
- Servers & Camp Staff
Why Fair Tipping Matters
The minimum wage in the Kilimanjaro region is:
- Porter: US$ 10/day
- Guide: US$ 20/day
- Assistant Guide / Cook: US$ 15/day
When to Tip: Most travelers tip at the end of the safari, based on overall satisfaction with their crew.
How to Tip: Hand tips directly to each person whenever possible.
You may also put tips in an envelope or designate a group tip to be shared — but clearly inform the crew of your intentions to ensure fairness.
Why Tipping Isn't Included in Package Prices: Adding tips to safari costs would make them taxable (18% VAT and income tax), reducing the net amount received by the crew. Direct tipping ensures the full amount goes to the staff.
Alternative Ways to Show Appreciation
In addition to monetary tips, items such as clothing, footwear, or useful gear (whether new or gently used) are highly valued and make thoughtful gifts. You may also invite your guides or porters for a meal or drink at the end of your trip as an additional gesture of gratitude.
You can ask directly what items are most needed and donate personally to ensure the right people benefit.
Your kindness can make a real difference in their daily lives.
Accepted Currencies
We accept tips in US Dollars, Euros, or Tanzanian Shillings (or a combination of these).
Recommended Tipping Rates for Kilimanjaro Trek
To show appreciation for our staff's dedication and hard work during your climb, the following daily rates per person per staff member are recommended:
- Chief Guide: $25–30 per day
- Assistant Guide: $20–25 per day
- Cook: $15–20 per day
- Porter: $10–15 per day
For all Kilimanjaro routes except Marangu:
- 1 climber: 1 guide, 3 porters, 1 cook
- 2 climbers: 1 guide, 6 porters, 1 extra assistant guide, 1 cook
- 3 climbers: 1 guide, 9 porters, 1 extra assistant guide, 1 cook
- 4 climbers: 2 guides, 9 porters, 1 extra assistant guide, 1 cook, 1 waiter
For Marangu Route:
- 1 guide and 1 cook for every 8 climbers
- 1 extra assistant guide per group
- 2 porters per climber for groups of 3
Tanzania Safari Tipping Guidelines
We recommend the following daily tipping amounts per guest:
- Group Safari Guide: US$ 15–25 per guest, per day
- Private Safari Guide: US$ 25–40 per guest, per day
- Group Safari Cook: US$ 10–15 per guest, per day
- Private Safari Cook: US$ 20–25 per guest, per day
- General Staff (servers, cleaners, etc.): US$ 1–5 per guest, per day
Note: The minimum tip for a private guide assumes 2 guests, while the maximum assumes 1 guest. For private groups of 3 or more, it's best to follow the group guide guideline.
Important Note & Expectations
Tipping is based on professionalism and service quality, not on whether you summit or not. If your guide, cook, or porters do not meet expectations, please inform Africa Prime Experiences at the Springlands Hotel immediately. Do not feel obligated to tip if service falls below standard.
Additional Notes
- If you booked your climb through an agent and received different tipping instructions, please follow the agent's guidance.
- To avoid confusion, confirm with your guide on the first day the total number of staff assigned to your group.
Contact Us
For questions or requests regarding tipping, please contact us at:
- Email: info@africaprimeexperiences.com
- Phone: +255 742 078 310