Tipping
Tipping on Kilimanjaro is a standard practice supported by all reputable tour operators. While many climbers are familiar with this tradition, they may not know exactly how much, when, and who to tip. To make the process easier, we’ve created some guidelines.
Tipping is discretionary and should reflect the level of service you received. These tips go a long way in supporting the hardworking staff and their families. Additionally, climbers who have extra equipment, such as sleeping bags, fleeces, or rain gear, can donate them as a form of appreciation.
Most reputable tour companies suggest the following daily amounts for tipping:
- Porters: $8 per day per porter
- Cook: $12 per day per cook
- Chief Guide and Assistant Guides: $20 per day per guide
To avoid confusion and ensure the well-being of the mountain crew, we recommend the following:
- For groups of more than two, the recommended total tip per person is between $250 and $300.
- For one or two people, the recommended total tip per person is $300, as the tips for the guide, assistant guide, and cook remain the same regardless of group size.
On the last evening on the mountain, the lead guide will provide an envelope for you to place your tips. It’s common for the group to pool their tips together to form a “pot.” On the last morning, the lead guide will gather the crew for a farewell song, during which the group spokesperson can express their appreciation and hand over the tip envelope. The lead guide will then distribute the tips accordingly.
Depending on your group size, there are around 4 support crew per trekker on the average Kilimanjaro trek