Tips are not mandatory but are an embedded form of appreciation for service excellence throughout Tanzania. They are well anticipated by service providers and are an important supplement to their income.
- In Restaurants & Bars: In urban and Zanzibar areas, a tip of 5 to 10% is expected when a service charge is not included. Rounding up is enough when in local eateries.
- For Taxis & Transfers:For taxis, particularly in major cities, it's common practice to always round up the bill. Private drivers for daily transfers should receive an incentive payment of $5-10 USD daily.
- For Hotel Staff: The porters will normally accept $1-$2 USD per bag. A few dollars a day for housekeeping at the end of your stay is a great gesture too.
- For Local Guides (non-safari): Cultural tourist guides in Stone Town, etc.: For these, a tip of $5 to $10 per day is appropriate for a small group.
- General Rule: Tips can be handed out in clean, new US dollar bills (small denomination bills) or Tanzanian Shillings. Old and torn bills may not be accepted.
A word about safari tips (for background):
Safari tipping has a more formalized tradition in light of the specialized crew. This is different from general tipping in cities and tends to be a collective gesture towards the end of your safari for your guide, driver, and camp crew.