Tipping in Africa: Tourist-Driven or Culturally Grounded?
Tipping in Africa varies significantly across regions and sectors. In some countries, it’s rare among locals but expected in tourist industries. In others, it’s an essential part of workers’ income. Unlike the U.S., however, tipping across Africa is less standardized—and often tied to whether you’re a visitor or a local.
Where Tipping Is Expected (Especially from Tourists)
🇿🇦 South Africa:
Tipping is expected in restaurants (10–15%), for hotel staff, and safari guides. Tourists are the primary tippers; locals tip less frequently. Service workers often rely on tips to supplement low wages.
🇪🇬 Egypt:
Tips—called baksheesh—are customary in nearly every setting. Locals and tourists alike are expected to tip everyone from waiters to bathroom attendants. Small amounts ($1–$2 USD equivalent) are common.
🇰🇪 Kenya:
In safari and tourist industries, tipping is expected. Drivers, porters, and guides often receive pooled or per-day tips. In cities, a 10% tip in restaurants is appreciated but not obligatory.
Where Tipping Is Appreciated but Not Mandatory
🇲🇦 Morocco:
In restaurants and hotels, tipping 5–10% is appreciated. Many workers depend on tips to supplement modest wages. However, locals tend to tip smaller amounts than tourists.
🇳🇬 Nigeria:
Tipping is informal and varies by situation. Hotel porters or service staff may expect a small gratuity, but there’s no strict tipping norm.
🇹🇿 Tanzania:
Tipping is a major part of income in safari tourism. Lodge staff, drivers, and guides often rely on pooled tips. In local eateries or taxis, tipping is rare and informal.
Where Tipping Is Rare or Symbolic
🇬🇭 Ghana:
Tipping is not expected from locals, but tourists may tip small amounts. Hotel and upscale restaurant staff might expect something modest (around 5%).
🇸🇳 Senegal:
Tipping is more common in tourist hubs like Dakar but rare elsewhere. Small coins or rounding up are considered polite but optional.
🇺🇬 Uganda:
Similar to Kenya and Tanzania—tipping is significant in tourist services, but informal or unnecessary in local life.
Takeaway: When in Doubt, Ask or Observe
In many African countries, tips aren’t mandatory—but in tourism-heavy sectors, they’re expected. When traveling, ask guides or hotel staff for advice on local norms. Tip fairly without overdoing it, and avoid spreading excessive U.S.-style tipping habits.
A Word on Baksheesh and Fair Wages
In North Africa, “baksheesh” blends the ideas of charity, gratuity, and social obligation. While modest, the frequency of tipping can feel overwhelming to tourists. But rather than resisting, use it as an opportunity to give thoughtfully—while pushing for wage fairness wherever possible.
Related Article:
EndTippingCulture.org 