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.

Tipping in Botswana is not compulsory but it is customary and should always depend on the quality of service received. Tipping is a significant component of the income of those working in the service industry, including waiters, guides, and trackers. There are usually communal tipping boxes found at camps and lodges which are usually found at the front desk. The accumulated tips will be divided evenly throughout the staff, so it is not necessary to tip each staff member individually.

Safari guides, mokoro polers, and trackers don’t get a share of the communal tip box and should be tipped directly. Qualified safari guides require extensive training and they bear a large responsibility regarding the success of a tour. These guides usually receive the largest tip.

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

The currency of Botswana is the ‘Pula’ BWP or P, the US dollar is not accepted. Be sure to exchange your US Dollars for Pula upon arrival. 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?

The tipping process in Botswana is not comparable with anywhere else in Africa, therefore a general guide for tipping servers at restaurants is to add 10-15% to your bill, this amount is at the client’s discretion.

Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?

Many camps and lodges have a general staff tip box for those who work behind the scenes including chefs, the kitchen team, the maids, and housekeeping staff. These proceeds are divided equally between the staff. Tipping hotel staff the equivalent of US$1-2 a day is a suitable amount.

Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?

It is recommended to leave a few Pula or round up the fare after your taxi ride is completed.

Tour Guides: Is a tip required?

When on a safari in Botswana there are several people to consider when it comes to tipping; the park rangers, group guides, private guides, mokoro polers, trackers or a butler, and drivers. These are some of the most important people that make your safari experience a success. It is suggested to tip these individuals separately to ensure they get the tip they deserve.

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 Botswana 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.