At Rhino Africa we often get asked as to explain the tipping customs in South Africa.
Tipping is an integral part of South African life, and tips are expected for services that you might take for granted at home. However tipping is only recommended if you are satisfied with the service you have received and is entirely at your own discretion.
Please find below some guidelines for you to consider before you travel !
On Safari
At the end of your stay at a private game lodge, most guests will want to tip both the ranger and the tracker. Tipping guidelines vary from lodge to lodge, but plan to give the local equivalents of about US$10 per person per day to the ranger and not much less to the tracker; an additional tip of US$25 for the general staff would be sufficient for a couple staying two days.
Gas / Petrol Attendants
There are no self-service gas stations in South Africa. You will be assisted by an attendant who you should tip 2 to 5 rand (R2-R5) if he or she offers to clean your windshield, check your oil and water, and is generally helpful. It is important to remember that Petrol Stations in South Africa only accept Cash as a form of payment.
Restaurants
In restaurants, the size of the tip should depend on the quality of service, but 10%-15% is standard, unless a service charge has already been added to the bill. Give the same percentage to bartenders, taxi drivers, and tour guides.
Hotels
Cleaners and housekeeping staff in hotels and Bed and Breakfast establishments usually get between R5 and R10 per day. Hotel porters should receive R1.50-R2 per bag.
Parking Guards
Informal parking attendants (usually wearing orange or yellow bibs) operate in the major cities in South Africa and even in some tourist areas. Although they often look a bit seedy, they do provide a good service, so tip them a couple of rand if your car is still in one piece when you return to it. Do not be bullied into tipping them when you arrive – they are just trying their luck!
