Tipping in Rwanda is given depending on how you have been served during any activity or at restaurants, because we believe good service deserves to be appreciated. At the same time, tipping has a positive impact on the local communities by improving their standard of living, as the extra money makes a big difference to their regular salary.
Always master the art of tipping enough but tipping right, because tipping too much may quickly use up your cash. Some employees are paid more than others, which is why you are advised to tip fairly.
Some of the employees you may tip include guides, trackers, porters, waiting staff, general help, and waitresses.
Some jobs require skilled people because the work needs complete team members, while other jobs do not require education qualifications. Jobs like porters (carrying luggage) or helping with simple tasks are open to anyone who can be easily trained.
These jobs have fewer responsibilities and earn less salary compared to rangers and guides. If a porter is tipped well, they may even earn more than a ranger, bringing a big smile to their face.
However, you are advised not to tip too often, as employees may become less motivated to work hard if they expect money too easily. Always keep in mind the value of each person’s work and tip accordingly.
Guides are tipped separately from others. Rangers and porters who accompany primate treks (usually with one or two rangers) are also tipped separately — “rangers and porters.” Trackers are tipped as a group.
There are also people who work behind the scenes to make your trip enjoyable. These are called the “back of the house” team and include kitchen staff, housekeeping staff, and maintenance workers. There is a general tip box where you can put some money, which is later shared equally among them.
During your trip, you are likely to tip your driver directly after a long day of travel. At hotels, you tip through the staff box. Private guides are usually tipped $10 per person per day, rangers $5 per person, trackers $5 per group, and lodges about $10 per person.
Make sure to read through the tipping guide before setting off for your Rwanda safari.
