TIPPING
Tipping is a well-established tradition on Kilimanjaro, as it is on many major mountains worldwide.
Understanding Tipping on Mt Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro presents both physical and mental challenges, and your success depends greatly on our dedicated mountain crew. For a typical group of 6 climbers, around 40 crew members work together to support your expedition. This includes experienced guides who lead the way and manage safety, porters who transport gear and establish camps, skilled cooks who prepare your meals, and camp crew who ensure your comfort throughout the journey.
Our commitment to ethical practices means we follow the guidelines set by Kilimanjaro National Parks and the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project. Each porter carries a maximum of 12kg of client gear, ensuring they can also manage their personal equipment safely. The porters also transport the camp equipment, food etc. We provide three daily meals for all crew members, appropriate shelter, and medical care when needed.
Tipping is a well-established tradition on Kilimanjaro, as it is on many major mountains worldwide. These gratuities go directly to the crew members who support your climb – our company receives none of these funds. For transparency, all crew members sign a master tipping sheet when receiving their share, ensuring fair distribution throughout the team.
When planning your budget, we recommend considering the following amounts for daily tips:
Guide $25-$30 p/d
Cook $15-$20 p/d
Porter $5-$10 p/d
For a typical expedition lasting 8 days on the mountain, this translates to approximately $400 per guest, though the exact amount may vary depending on your group size. Your generosity directly supports these hardworking individuals and contributes to a sustainable and positive impact on the local community.
Traditionally US dollars is the preferred currency for tipping. If you plan to use USD, best ensure your bills are dated 2009 or newer, as Tanzanian banks won’t accept older notes. Smaller denominations are particularly useful as they make distributing tips easier among the crew. While these are our suggested amounts, you’re always welcome to give additional personal tips to crew members who provide exceptional service.
The tipping ceremony takes place at the end of your climb, providing a meaningful opportunity to show your appreciation to the team. This gesture not only rewards the crew members for their hard work but also supports their families and local communities. Their dedication and expertise play a crucial role in making your Kilimanjaro experience both safe and memorable.
