Safari planning guide

"How much do we tip?" is one of the questions I get most from safari clients, usually a few weeks before they leave.

It's a fair question. Tipping in Africa can feel a little unclear, because customs vary by country and by lodge.

So here's the same guide I send my own clients before every safari.

First, the Most Important Thing

Tipping is always your choice. It should reflect your own experience and the service you received, and it is never mandatory.

These are simply guidelines. Whatever feels comfortable to you is absolutely appropriate.

Tipping on Safari

WhoHow much

Safari guide$15–$20 per guest, per day

Tracker$10–$15 per guest, per day

Butler or personal host$10 per room, per day

General camp staff$15–$20 per guest, per day

Your guides will be the highlight of your trip.

Tipping in the City

WhoHow much

Airport assistance$5 per person

Airport transfer driver$10 per transfer

Private touring guide$20 per person for a full day, $15 for a half day

Restaurants10–15%, if service isn't already included and you're happy with it

How Tipping Works at a Safari Camp

• Tip your guide, tracker and butler separately. These are the people you'll spend the most time with, and it's customary to thank each one directly.
• Use the gratuity box for everyone else. Most camps have a shared box in the main lodge area for housekeeping, the kitchen and the rest of the camp team.
• Tip once, at the end of your stay. There's no need to tip daily.
• Check your welcome materials. Some lodges share their own suggested amounts, which can vary a little by property.
• You don't always need cash. Many lodges let you add gratuities to your card at checkout. If that matters to you, confirm with the lodge team when you arrive.

What Currency to Bring

Most properties happily accept tips in US dollars or the local currency.

In most cases, small US bills are the easiest and most convenient option, so tuck some into your bag before you leave home.

My Biggest Advice

Don't stress over it! Your guides will be the highlight of your trip, and you'll know exactly how you want to thank them by the end.

keep planning

What to pack →Safari planning page →Safari pricing guide →

Ready to start planning your safari?

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Safari planning guide

Packing for safari is easier than most people think.

You don't need a whole new wardrobe or anything fancy. In fact, you'll probably pack less than you would for a week at the beach.

Here's the same packing list I send my own clients before they leave.

What to Wear on Safari

Pack comfortable, casual clothing in muted, neutral colors. Think khaki, olive, beige, cream, grey and other earth tones.

Skip bright colors, and leave the camouflage print at home.

Whatever the time of year, early mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially on an open safari vehicle. Layers are always your friend.

KhakiOliveBeigeCreamGrey

Why You'll Pack Lighter Than You Think

Most lodges and hotels offer laundry service, and it's often included. That makes it easy to rotate the same few outfits through your whole trip.

This matters more than you'd expect. If your trip includes small bush planes between camps, luggage allowances are strict, and soft-sided bags are usually required. Your exact allowance will be in your trip documents before you go.

Layers are always your friend.

My Safari Packing List

Clothing

• 2 breathable long-sleeved shirts, for sun and insect protection
• 2 t-shirts for relaxing at the lodge, city touring or casual days
• 2 pairs of shorts or lightweight pants
• 2 pairs of safari trousers or casual pants for game drives and walks (shorts are perfectly fine too)
• 2 pairs of jeans or casual trousers for evenings at the lodge
• 1 warm jacket or fleece for early morning and evening game drives
• 1 lightweight rain jacket with a hood
• Sleepwear and undergarments

Shoes

• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
• 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals for downtime at the lodge or pool

Accessories and Essentials

• A small backpack or day bag, water-resistant if possible
• Swimwear
• Sunglasses
• A broad-brimmed hat or cap
• Sunscreen
• Moisturizer and lip balm
• Eye drops or nasal spray, if you use them
• Strong insect repellent (most lodges provide it)
• A neck gaiter or buff for cool mornings and dusty roads

Safari Gear

• Binoculars (compact and lightweight are best)
• Camera equipment and chargers
• A portable power bank

A Few Final Notes

• No formal clothes needed. Safari camps are very relaxed, even at dinner.
• Layers are the most important part of packing, especially for morning game drives.
• Repeating outfits is normal. Laundry is usually quick and easy.
• Pack a soft-sided bag if your trip includes bush flights.

keep planning

Safari tipping guide →Safari planning page →Safari pricing guide →

Ready to start planning your safari?

Plan My Safari