The Short Answer (2025–2026 Rates)
Tip $350–$500 per climber for a standard 7–8 day climb.
That’s the current industry standard for a responsible operator.
Recommended Amounts per Climber (7–8 Day Trip)
- Head Guide → $30–$40 per day
- Assistant Guide(s) → $20–$30 per day
- Cook → $15–$25 per day
- Summit Porter → $15–$20 per day
- Each Regular Porter → $10–$15 per day
Total for a 7-day climb: $350–$500
Tip more if the service was exceptional—the crew will remember you forever.
Why Tipping Is So Important
Your crew earns modest wages, but tips often double their monthly income.
A good tip can pay school fees, fix a roof, or buy livestock for an entire family.
When you tip fairly, you directly change lives in the villages around Kilimanjaro.
How SerengetiNexus Guarantees Every Dollar Reaches the Crew
We are 100% transparent—no “guide keeps the envelope” nonsense.
- You receive an official tipping envelope and breakdown sheet on descent day
- Fill it out, seal it, hand it to your head guide
- The sealed envelope goes straight to our Moshi office
- Our accountant opens it with the head guide present and records everything on camera
- 100% of the money is transferred directly into each crew member’s personal bank account within 48 hours
- We pay all bank fees—the crew gets every cent
- You can request bank receipts or the full tipping report any time
No cash disappears. No favoritism. No bribery for future jobs.
Cash Rules (Tanzania Banks Are Picky)
- Only crisp USD bills printed after 2009
- $50 and $100 notes preferred (easier for crew to exchange)
- No tears, no writing, no old bills
- Euros and GBP also accepted
Extra Ways to Say Thank You
- Write the names of standout crew on the tipping sheet for a bonus
- Bring small gifts (old hiking boots, warm jackets, footballs for their kids)
- Join the singing & dancing celebration on the last day—it’s emotional!
Real Example (January 2025 group)
14 climbers tipped a total of $6,800 → every porter, cook, and guide received their exact share within 48 hours. Receipts are available on request.
Climb with Confidence
When you book with SerengetiNexus, you know:
- Crew are paid fair wages from day one
- Tips are 100 % guaranteed to reach the right people
- You leave the mountain having made a real positive impact
Ready to thank the team that will carry you to the Roof of Africa?
Book your climb and tip with zero worries.
Get Your 2025–2026 Climb Quote | Download Tipping Sheet PDF | Chat with Us
Your summit is their livelihood. Tip proudly. 🙏🗻
