Tipping Guide for Namibia & Visiting Himba Villages
Quick answer
In Namibia, tip safari guides USD 10 to 20 per guest per day (USD 7 in a shared vehicle), lodge staff USD 4 to 10 per guest per day, and restaurants 10 to 15%. At a Himba village, USD 5 to 10 per person for dancers or drummers is usual. There is no special Himba tipping custom.
Tipping is common in Namibia for many service providers you will meet during a safari or visit, including in villages where Himba people live.
However, there is no special “tipping guide for the Himba” as part of their culture.
It is common to tip safari guides, trackers, camp and lodge staff, and restaurant workers, with certain suggested amounts.
A common tip is USD $10-$20 per guest per day, given at the end of the tour.
If you are in a shared vehicle, USD $7 per guest per day is suggested, also given at the end of the safari or stay.
USD $4-$10 per guest per day is typical for lodge staff, usually placed in a communal tip box at reception to be shared among all staff.
A 10-15% tip for good service is normal, either in cash (local or foreign currency) or by credit card if allowed.
If you watch a performance, a tip of USD $5-$10 per person for drummers or dancers is recommended.
Many lodges use communal tip boxes to ensure fair sharing of tips among all staff.
Tipping is a way to show thanks for good service. If you are not happy with the service, you do not need to tip.
Tips can be given in Namibian Dollars or in major currencies like USD or Euro.
Cash is usually preferred, but some places may allow tips by credit card. Bringing small gifts for staff, especially if you return to a camp, can also be a kind gesture.
Frequently asked questions
Do you tip Himba people?
There is no Himba tipping custom. You pay an entry fee, can buy crafts, and tip USD 5 to 10 per person if you watch a dance.
What currency should I tip in?
Namibian dollars, US dollars or euros. Cash is usually preferred.
When should I tip my guide?
At the end of the tour or safari.
