Tipping On Mount Kilimanjaro

Tipping on Kilimanjaro:

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible adventure and one that’s only made possible by the dedicated efforts of your mountain crew, including guides, assistant guides, porters, and cooks. One of the most frequently asked questions by trekkers is: “How much should I tip on Kilimanjaro?” In this guide, we provide clear and transparent information on tipping on Kilimanjaro, why it matters, when and how to give it, and what amounts are expected.

Why Is Tipping on Kilimanjaro Important?

Tipping on Mount Kilimanjaro is a long-standing tradition and a heartfelt way to show appreciation to your team. The Kilimanjaro porters, guides, and cooks work tirelessly to ensure your safety, comfort, and success on the mountain. For many of them, tips are a significant part of their income, helping to support their families and communities.

When you choose Kilimanjaro Lifetime Adventures, your trekking crew includes experienced, trained, and friendly locals who carry your gear, prepare meals, and guide you to the summit. Their hard work deserves acknowledgment and a fair tip.

How Much Should You Tip on Kilimanjaro?

Here’s a suggested daily tipping breakdown per staff member:

• Main Guide: $20–$25 per day
• Assistant Guide: $15–$20 per day
• Cook: $15–$20 per day
• Porter: $8–$10 per day

These amounts are typically pooled by the group and distributed to each crew member on the final day of the trek.

SAMPLE GROUP TIPPING ESTIMATES

Below are average tipping amounts for different group sizes and trek durations:

6-Day Route (15 Climbers):

• 1 Chief Guide: $130–$150
• 6 Assistant Guides: $80–$90 each
• 2 Cooks: $80–$90 each
• 47 Porters: $40–$50 each
• Total Crew: 56 Staff
• Total Group Tip: $2,650–$3,220
• Each Client Tips: Approximately $175–$220

7 Day and 8 Day Routes (15 Climbers):

• Same crew size and tipping range as above
• Each Client Tips: Approximately $175–$220

Note: Tipping ranges vary slightly based on the route and group size. Larger groups require more support staff, which affects the overall tipping pool.

Tipping Ceremony on Kilimanjaro

At the end of your trek, usually during your last night at camp, your team will organize a Kilimanjaro tipping ceremony. This is your chance to thank your crew in person, celebrate your summit, and distribute your tips. Unless otherwise advised, it’s best to prepare individual envelopes for each crew category (guides, cooks, porters).

Who Do You Tip, and When?

• When: On the final day of your trek, before leaving the last camp
• How: In cash (USD or Tanzanian Shillings), in envelopes or handed to the chief guide for fair distribution
• Who: All staff guide, assistant guides, cooks, and porters?

What Currency Should You Use for Tipping?

The most common tipping currencies are:

• US Dollars (clean, undamaged bills, preferably from 2009 or later)
• Tanzanian Shillings (TZS)

We recommend bringing the total tipping amount in cash before the trek begins, as there are no ATMs on the mountain. Not sure how much to carry? Our team will gladly assist you in estimating the right amount based on your group size and duration.