Around 10% is appreciated for good restaurant service without an included charge. Rounding up works in casual cafés. Safari guides, drivers and porters require trip-specific arrangements.
About 10%Dining quick answer
Guidance applies to the services described below; customs can differ by provider.
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Kenya tipping cheat sheet
Amounts, whether a tip is expected, and the exceptions that matter. Open a row for details.
RestaurantsAdvice & exceptionsAbout 10%
Around 10% is appreciated for good restaurant service without an included charge. Rounding up works in casual cafés. Safari guides, drivers and porters require trip-specific arrangements.
Before paying: Check for an included service charge or gratuity. If adding a card tip, confirm the total before completing payment; with cash, make clear what is a tip and what change you need.
Bars & cafésAdvice & exceptionsSmall change
Round up the bill or leave small change; higher-end venues may include service.
Tour guidesAdvice & exceptionsKSh600–1,000 / person / day
Original Travel’s undated safari-guide suggestion. Your camp’s current guidance may be higher.
When & how: Give it at the end of the safari.
FROM ARRIVAL TO CHECKOUT
Your journey
Arriving & getting around
Keep a prepaid airport transfer separate from a metered taxi or a full-day driver. For tour budgets, check the unit and whether guide and driver tips are separate.
If you choose to give a personal cash tip, use a currency the recipient can spend and make its purpose clear. Card payment for the bill does not guarantee a card-tip facility. Check the final total before approving it.
For a prepaid tour or resort stay, read the gratuity inclusions. A service fee, a staff tip pool and an individual guide tip may cover different people.
