Kenya Tipping Guide
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Current Exchange Rate: 1 USD = 140 KES
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/Driver $15-20 USD per guest per day
- Spotter $10 USD per guest per day
- Camp Staff $10 USD per guest per day (communal tip box)
- Transfer Driver $5-10 USD per transfer
Activity Staff
- Walking Guide $15-20 USD per walk
- Boat Captain $10 USD per trip
- Cultural Guide $10 USD per person
- Birding Guide $15 USD per activity
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
Kenya has a well-established tourism industry with clear tipping guidelines. Many luxury lodges have communal tip boxes for general staff, while guides and specialists should be tipped separately.
For multi-day safaris, it's customary to tip at the end of your stay. Game drives with exceptional sightings or special experiences often warrant higher tips.
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