In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette that is ingrained in all trades, from wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more trades. The question `when?` or `how much?` can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies.

This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.

It is customary to tip in Zimbabwe, the amount you tip depends upon the service and your satisfaction with your stay, ride, or tour guide. Share your appreciation to employees in the service industry by tipping when dining at a restaurant, staying at a hotel or lodge, riding in a taxi, or taking a tour with a guide.

Tipping in the country is not compulsory but is always appreciated, the amount you tip depends on your overall experience and satisfaction. The Gross National Income (GNI) in Zimbabwe is around US$5.26 per person per day. Tips earned by employees in the service industry have a huge impact on their overall income, due to low minimum wages tips are greatly appreciated. Tips help supplement Zimbabwean’s income.

Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars?

The currency of Zimbabwe is the US dollar. ATMs can be found at the airport, or in the city, tipping is discretionary and appreciated, and cash is usually preferred. You can convert money to USD at a bank or Forex Burea prior to departure.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?

In restaurants in Zimbabwe it is customary to tip for table service, tip 10-15% on top of your bill when good to excellent service is provided. Some establishments have a “Tip Jar” where the tips are shared equally between all employees from chefs to cleaners.

Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?

Most people leave tips when staying in hotels, camps, and lodges in Zimbabwe. Some may offer a suggestion on how much to tip (a range of around US$5 to US$20 per guest, per day). There may be a general tip jar or an envelope where you can leave a tip for the hotel staff. In camps, there is a central box in each camp’s main area and a suggestion of $10-$15 per person per day. About $1 per bag for porters, and a few dollars a day for hotel housekeeping.

Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?

Tipping a taxi driver in Zimbabwe is recommended, leaving a few dollars or some extra change is satisfactory.

Tour Guides: Is a tip required?

Tipping your tour guide in Zimbabwe is a common practice, it is recommended to tip the driver, porters, and tour guides. Anywhere from $15-$20 dollars per tour.

Final Thoughts:

Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. Unlike in the U.S., waiters are paid a living wage, and the expectations for tipping are lower in Romania than in America. This is also true for hotel staff, though if you encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager.

When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.