1. General Guidelines
- Tipping Culture: Tipping is customary and appreciated in Tanzania, especially for trekking services. It is considered a way to reward the efforts of the guides, porters, and cooks who support your climb.
- Amount: Tipping amounts can vary based on the length and difficulty of the trek, as well as the size of the team and the level of service provided.
2. Typical Tipping Amounts
For a 7-Day Kilimanjaro Trek:
- Guide: $20-$30 per day per guide
- Assistant Guide: $14-$16 per day per assistant guide
- Porters: $7.5–$10 per day per porter
- Cook: $13-16 per day per cook
- Tip Pool: Some trekkers prefer to give a lump sum to the head guide or the lead porter, who then distributes it among the team.
For a 5-Day Kilimanjaro Trek:
- Guide: $16-$20 per day
- Assistant Guide: $13-$15 per day
- Porters: $7.5-$10 per day
- Cook: $13-$15 per day
For a 3-Day Kilimanjaro Trek:
- Guide: $16-$20 per day
- Assistant Guide: $13-$15 per day
- Porters: $7.5-$10 per day
- Cook: $13-$15 per day
3. How to Distribute Tips
- At the End of the Trek: It is customary to distribute tips at the end of the trek, usually on the final night before departure.
- Tip Pooling: It’s often easiest to give your tip to the head guide or trek leader, who will then ensure it’s distributed fairly among the team.
- Cash Tips: Tips are usually given in cash. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to bring small denominations in case change is needed.
4. Additional Considerations
- Group Size: If you’re part of a larger group, the total tipping amount should be multiplied accordingly.
- Service Quality: Consider the quality of service provided when determining the final tip amount. If the team went above and beyond, you might want to give more.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of local customs and show appreciation for the services provided. Tipping is a way to recognize and reward the hard work of the trekking team.
5. Example Breakdown
For a 7-day trek with a team of 1 head guide, 1 assistant guide, 4 porters, and 1 cook:
- Head Guide: $110-$135
- Assistant Guide: $95-$110
- Porters: $210-$230 (assuming 4 porters)
- Cook: $95 – $110
Total Estimated Tipping Amount: $510 – $585
6. How to Prepare for Tipping
- Cash Handling: Ensure you have enough cash in small denominations to cover tips. Plan ahead so you’re not scrambling for cash at the end of the trek.
- Envelope: Some trekkers use envelopes to distribute tips, which can help keep the process organized and ensure each staff member receives their fair share.
Conclusion
Tipping appropriately is a meaningful way to acknowledge the hard work of the Kilimanjaro support team. By following these guidelines and adjusting based on your specific trek and the quality of service, you’ll contribute to a positive experience for everyone involved.
