The standards
South African gratuity norms, by category. Widely accepted ranges — not rules. The same guidance applies to every traveller, regardless of nationality. Updated with input from FGASA, CATHSSETA and Department of Tourism registered guides, tour operators, and lodge management.
Suggested range based on service, bill or party size.
FGASA-qualified field guides
Low end
R200
per day
Fair suggestion
R350
per day
High end
R600
per day
This is a suggestion only. You always choose what feels right for the service you received.
| Service | Range | Recommended | Per | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safari Ranger | R200–R600 | 350 | day | FGASA-qualified field guides |
| Safari Tracker | R150–R400 | 250 | day | Works alongside the ranger |
| Cultural Day-Tour Guide | R400–R1,000 | 700 | group | Per group up to 8 |
| Walking Tour Guide | R100–R350 | 200 | tour | Per person, per tour |
| Multi-day Tour Guide | R300–R800 | 500 | day | Per group up to 8, 3–5 day tours |
| Porter | R20–R30 | 20 | bag | About R100 for a family of four |
| Housekeeping | R30–R100 | 50 | night | Per room, per night |
| Transfer Driver | R50–R200 | 100 | trip | Depending on distance |
| Restaurant Server | R50–R250 | 120 | visit | Typically 10–15% of the bill |
| Concierge | R20–R100 | 50 | service | Per special arrangement |
| Spa Therapist | R50–R200 | 100 | treatment | Per treatment |
| Bartender | R20–R80 | 40 | visit | Per evening at the bar |
| Lodge Team (pooled) | R100–R500 | 250 | stay | Managers, hosts, general team |
| Kitchen / Chef | R50–R300 | 150 | stay | Recognition for the kitchen team |
“Tipping in South Africa is appreciated, and it forms a meaningful part of income for guides and hospitality staff. These are widely accepted ranges, not rules. The same guidance applies to every traveller, regardless of nationality.”
What’s included