Gratuities & Tipping Guidelines

TIPPING/GRATUITIES In SOUTH AFRICA – GENERAL GUIDELINE

Tipping in South Africa is an expected part of everyday life that is most welcome, although not compulsory.  Tips are generally accepted in the local currency ZAR (South African Rand), however, US Dollars & Euros may also be accepted. It is always a good idea to have sufficient cash on hand for additional spending and/or tipping.

It’s normal to tip for good service in restaurants, bars and cafes in South Africa – especially in the tourism & hospitality industry. The amount you, tip will depend on where you are and what type of services you’re buying. As a general rule, expect to tip around 10% of the bill. If you get exceptionally good service, say thank you with a tip closer to 15-20%.

Tips are also appreciated in the service industry such as spas & salons, taxi/shuttle/transfer drivers, etc. anywhere from ZAR150.00 to ZAR500.00 is a reasonable sum, depending on what has been carried out, and your level of satisfaction.

TIPPING/GRATUITIES AT EZULWINI GAME LODGES – GENERAL GUIDELINE

When staying at Ezulwini Game Lodges tips can be added to your account and settled at the end of your stay. In our information packs in the rooms, we give a small mention to tipping as it is a question we receive regularly. The general standard amount given to the staff is on average ZAR2500.00 per room, per day which is shared among approximately 12-14 staff members at any given time.

If you wish to tip, there is a general staff gratuity box in the main lodges for all staff members that includes safari guides, trackers, hosts, housekeeping, chefs, kitchen, security, garden and maintenance staff, although you may tip your guide & tracker separately. Envelopes are available at reception or from your hosts if leaving a cash tip, however gratuities can also be added to your room account to be settled upon your departure, and can be paid in cash or credit card. Please note that we only accept VISA or MASTERCARD.

CURRENCY

The currency unit is the South African Rand (ZAR), denoted by the symbol R. Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Change/Forex. Please note that we accept both Rands & US Dollars at the lodges, however we do not offer a currency exchange.

CREDIT CARDS

Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted throughout the country however American Express and Diners are less widely accepted. Please note that many lodges do not take American Express cards –  we only accept VISA and Mastercard at Ezulwini Game Lodges.

BANKS

Most banks are open Monday to Friday 9:00 am – 3:30 pm and Saturday from 8:30 am – 11.00 am. The following banks offer foreign exchange services: First National, Nedbank, Standard Bank, and ABSA. Various automated teller machines (ATM’s) are found in every large town.  Also, several international banks have branches in the main cities.

The banks and the Bureau de Change at most airports offer the best exchange rates.