Tipping in South Africa: what to give, where and why

Going on a trip to South Africa? Then you will soon come into contact with something that is quite normal there, but for many Europeans takes some getting used to: tipping is not an extra, but an important part of one’s income.

This article tells you exactly where, when and how much to tip during your trip.

Why tipping is so important in South Africa

In South Africa, many people in the hospitality, tourism and service industries earn low basic wages. Tipping is therefore an essential part of their salary. Not tipping is therefore seen as rude or disrespectful, even if the service was good.

So don’t think of tipping as a reward, but as part of the cost of your trip.

Restaurant & cafes

This is the most important place to tip.

• 10% is the bare minimum
• 15% is normal with good service
• 20% with excellent service

Many restaurants already include a suggestion on the receipt, but this is not mandatory. Also check that a service charge has not already been added (especially for groups).

Tip: Don’t leave the tip on the table, but give it directly to the waiter or add it to the card payment.

Hotels & lodges

• Here, several people are tipped for different services.

  Who	Target amount
  Chambermaid	R20 – R50 per day
  Suitcase carrier	R20 per case
  Reception / general service	R50 – R100 at departure
  Ranger / guide (safari)	R100 – R200 per person per day
  Tracker (safari)	R50 – R100 per person per day

  At safari lodges, there is often a shared tip box at the front desk.

Safaris and tours

Guides live largely on tips.

• Half-day tour: R50 – R100 p.p.
• Full-day tour: R100 – R200 p.p.
• Private guide: R200+ p.p.

Parking guards (Car guards)

Everywhere at malls and restaurants you see people watching for cars. But is certainly not an obligation.

• R5 – R20 is normal

Gas stations

In South Africa, you don’t refuel yourself. An employee does this for you.

• R5 – R10 for refueling and window cleaning

Cabs & Uber

• Uber: not mandatory, but rounding up or R10 – R20 is neat
• Taxi/shuttle: 10%

Hairdressers, spa, beauty salon

• About 10%

What if you don’t have any cash?

Always have some small South African money (Rand) in your pocket. Not everyone can receive a tip via pin.

Handy to carry as standard:

• R5, R10, R20 bills

When not to tip?

Tipping is not common at fast food chains or self-service.

In conclusion

Tipping in South Africa may feel a bit excessive at first, but you’ll find that it really makes a difference to people there. With a relatively small amount for you, you are helping someone tremendously.

Think of it as a small contribution to the hospitality for which South Africa is so well known.