Botswana Tipping Guide
Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP)
Current Exchange Rate: 1 USD = 13.5 BWP
USD is widely accepted and preferred for tips in safari lodges. Many luxury camps include service charges in their rates.
Safari & Lodge Guidelines
Safari Staff
- Guide/Ranger $20-25 USD per guest per day
- Tracker $10-15 USD per guest per day
- Camp Staff $10 USD per guest per day (communal tip box)
- Transfer Driver $10 USD per transfer
Activity Staff
- Mokoro Guide $15-20 USD per activity
- Boat Captain $10-15 USD per trip
- Walking Guide $15-20 USD per walk
- Cultural Guide $10 USD per person
Hotel & Restaurant Services
- Restaurant Server 10% of the bill (if service charge not included)
- Housekeeping $2-3 USD per night
- Porter $1-2 USD per bag
- Room Service $2 USD per delivery
Local Customs & Etiquette
Botswana is known for its high-end safari experiences and exceptional guiding standards. Many luxury lodges include service charges in their rates, but additional tipping for exceptional service is common and appreciated.
For multi-day safaris, it's customary to tip at the end of your stay. Guides and trackers should be tipped separately from the general staff tip box.
Additional Information
- Bring clean USD bills for tips - older or torn notes may not be accepted
- Check if your lodge rate includes service charges
- Tips for activities should be given after each excursion
- Consider tipping more for exceptional wildlife sightings or service