Tipping in Rwanda – In Rwanda, the majority of hotels and lodges have a tipping box, often placed at the reception, where customers can show their appreciation for good service by dropping in a coin, usually in Rwandan francs.
While tipping is not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated. Tips, though entirely at your discretion, can have a significant impact on the modest salaries of local staff, helping to improve their standard of living.
Staff may include waiters, security guards, chefs, managers, guides, porters, and more.
Guides
Guides do an incredible job of ensuring you have a successful trip. It’s important to remember that they are tipped separately from the salary or commission they receive.
They ensure your safety and guide you to the best tourist destinations. Always feel good about tipping them—after all, a giving hand is a blessed soul!
Rangers
Rangers perform a similar role to guides, as they also work in national parks.
However, rangers often go deeper into the jungle, usually accompanying trackers.
Just like guides, rangers should be tipped separately for their efforts.
Porters
During your safari in Rwanda, you can hire a porter, who should also be tipped separately.
Porters are essential for helping you carry your bags, especially when you encounter difficult terrain that would be hard to cross with a heavy load.
House Team
There are many people working behind the scenes to ensure your trip flows smoothly, including housekeeping staff, kitchen staff, and others you may not see.
This is why many lodges place a single tipping box for all staff members to share at the end of the day.
Our staff consistently provide exceptional service and are willing to go above and beyond.
Tipping Etiquette
Some tourists may wonder about tipping too much or tipping the right amount. Always follow your heart—if you want to give generously and have the means, feel free to do so.
If you prefer to give humbly, that is also perfectly acceptable. At the end of the day, tips are shared among staff members, bringing smiles to their faces.
It’s also fine to pick out a specific staff member to tip directly, as not everyone is paid the same. For example, a game ranger may earn more than a luggage carrier due to the level of education required to provide proper knowledge to tourists about the jungle.
Tipping a luggage carrier a higher amount of Rwandan francs can make a significant difference.
When to Tip
Another frequently asked question is when to tip. You can tip at the end of the day or place the money in the box at the hotel reception after receiving services.
Tour guides are typically tipped at the end of the trip. They are worth appreciating for their hard work.
Here are some general guidelines for tipping:
- Private guides: $10 per person per day
- National park guides: $5 per person
- Trackers: $5 per person
- Hotel staff: $10 per person
Note:
According to data collected in 2016, the gross national income (GNI) for Rwanda was US $5.12 per person, reflecting the average income of the Rwandan population.
In comparison, the UK’s average GNI per person is $116, while the United States is around $156, and Germany’s is approximately $120.
Before tipping, check the exchange rate to ensure you are giving the right amount, as the value of money differs between countries.
You can easily withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange money at a Forex Bureau, as local currency is recommended.
