Tipping in South Africa
Tipping is expected in South Africa. Not tipping can be considered rude.
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Tipping quick reference
| Service | Recommended | Range | Payment | Service charge? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant 10% is standard, rising to 15–20% for excellent service; a service charge may be added for groups | 10% | 10–20% | Card or cash | No |
| Taxi Drivers usually expect ~10% at the end of a journey | 10% | 10–15% | Card or cash | No |
| Hotel housekeeping A small daily cash tip for housekeeping is customary | R40 per night | R20–R60 | Cash only | No |
| Hotel porter A small tip per bag for porters is customary | R20 per bag | R20–R40 | Cash only | No |
| Bar Small change or a note per drink is appreciated | R20 per drink | R0–R40 | Card or cash | No |
| Café Small tips or tip jars are common at counters | 5% | 0–10% | Card or cash | No |
| Hairdresser Tipping around 10% is customary in salons | 10% | 5–15% | Cash only | No |
| Tour guide Guides are commonly tipped per person for a tour or day | R100 per person | R40–R200 | Cash only | No |
| Food delivery A small tip for delivery drivers is customary | 5% | 0–10% | Card or cash | No |
| Spa & massage Therapists are commonly tipped around 10% of the treatment | 10% | 5–15% | Cash only | No |
| Valet parking A small cash tip when the car is returned is customary | R20 per service | R20–R40 | Cash only | No |