Tipping Is Part of the Culture

While tipping isn’t compulsory, it’s a common way to show appreciation for good service in South Africa, and many hospitality workers rely on tips as part of their income.

Here’s a simple guide:

• 🍽️ Restaurants: 10–15% of the bill for good service.

• 🚗 Petrol attendants: R5–R20 if they clean your windscreen or check your tyre pressure.

• 🅿️ Car guards: R5–R20 when you return to your car (carry a few small notes or coins if you can).

• 🧳 Hotel porters: Around R20–R50 per bag.

• 🧹 Housekeeping: Around R20–R50 per day, left in the room at the end of your stay.

• 🦁 Safari guides: If you’re happy with the experience, tipping is customary. Many lodges provide suggested amounts, but as a general guide, expect around R150–R300 per guest per day for your guide and R100–R200 per guest per day for the tracker where applicable.