Читать книгу (101 things to know when you go) ON SAFARI IN AFRICA - Patrick Brakspear - Страница 24

Should we tip, and if so - how much?? This is a common dilemma for most visitors to any foreign country!

In Africa, tipping is not expected but has become customary. The traditional gratuity to safari guides or camp staff is not included in the price of your tour and is completely discretionary.

Bear in mind that what may seem like an inconsequential amount to you may be significant to local African staff and will certainly be received with a display of gratitude that is genuinely humbling.

Most safari lodges will have a ‘tip box’ at reception for the staff – this covers all the ‘unseen’ services you have enjoyed during your stay, including the person who cleans your room and the many staff who work in the kitchen. However, you may wish to reward your guide or perhaps a particularly attentive waiter individually.

Guidelines: Tip moderately and in accordance with the level and quality of service provided – and only if you are satisfied with that service. The following can be used as a guide and is generally accepted practice, based on a per person basis (i.e. a couple travelling together should consider doubling these figures):

Driver/guide - US$10 and upwards per day.

Private safari guide - US$25 and upwards per day;

Camp staff - US$10 to $20 per day, as a pooled tip to be shared among the housekeepers, waiters, bartender, etc.

If you spend a great deal of time with a single guide, as is the case on a number of mobile safaris or private vehicle + driver/guide itineraries, you may want to increase the above amounts in accordance with the enthusiasm and effort displayed (or your overall satisfaction level)…and you might even consider leaving behind your binoculars or books on mammals/birds to show your appreciation i.e. something other than money that you have noticed the guide does not have (or could use in his job) – just a thought.

Tips can generally be paid in US dollars or local currency.