Tipping in Ethiopia: Tips and Recommendations

With its own written language and script, rich local traditions and history, and a wealth of traditional African flora and fauna, Ethiopia is a fascinating travel destination. The best part is that it has been a largely undiscovered tourist place, so you will not have to deal with hordes of people with cameras.

However, while exploring this fascinating country, you might wonder, "Do people tip in Ethiopia?" or "How much to tip in Ethiopia?". Knowing when and how much to tip can make your journey more enjoyable. This travel guide contains everything about tipping culture in Ethiopia you need to know about it.

Is Tipping Customary in Ethiopia?

Tipping has grown in popularity, particularly in cities and popular tourist locations, despite not being a deeply ingrained custom in Ethiopian culture. Tipping in Ethiopia is more than just a monetary gesture—it’s a way to express gratitude for excellent service. It is appreciated in many scenarios, particularly in the travel and hospitality industries.

Tipping in Ethiopia is more than just a monetary gesture

Do I Tip In Ethiopia?

Tipping for good service is normal in Ethiopian cafes, bars, and restaurants, particularly in tourist or commercial areas. In hotels, serviced apartments, and other establishments where staff might not receive as much compensation, such as spas or salons, tips are also valued.

The amount you tip in Ethiopia will depend on what type of services you’re purchasing and where you are. You should generally budget about 10% of the bill for tipping. Say "thank you" with a tip of at least 15% to 20% if you receive especially good service.

Read more: Is Ethiopia Expensive

How much should I tip for good service in Ethiopian restaurants?

Plan to tip about 10-15% for good service in Ethiopian restaurants. However, the location, occasion, and order size all affect the exact tip amount when dining out in the country. Since your waiter or waitress is probably splitting their tip with the kitchen staff, it is usual to tip them a little larger tip than you would a bartender.

In Ethiopian cafes and bars, you can either leave a little tip each time you order a drink or round the bill to the next significant number. You might want to spend more money and leave a larger tip if you are in a classy cocktail bar where creating cocktails is a specialty or if your cappuccino is made by a very talented barista.

Plan to tip about 10-15% for good service in Ethiopian restaurants

Are tips expected for tour guides in Ethiopia?

Your vacation can be made or broken by your tour guide, so if you find a good guide in Ethiopia do tip them the customary 10%. Whether you are on a walking tour, a multi-day tour or a private tour, tips are always appreciated.

It's worth tipping too if you take a free tour in Ethiopia. These kinds of tours frequently have a "pay what you like" model. The only income your guide makes can come from your tips.

If you had a good time, you could occasionally be requested to write a TripAdvisor review rather than tipping. In addition to helping other travelers have a wonderful future experience, this could help guides earn a commission.

Is it customary to tip taxi drivers in Ethiopia?

Tipping 10% is common in Ethiopia for longer trips and if you get assistance with your luggage. Rounding up the bill to the nearest substantial number in Ethiopian birr is the simplest option for short trips. Remember that you must agree on the fare before your trip if you are using local taxis instead of a ride-hailing service like Uber.

Tipping 10% is common in Ethiopia for longer trips and if you get assistance with your luggage

Tips For Tipping In Ethiopia

Tip in the local currency

When tipping during your trip to Ethiopia, it is crucial to use the native currency, which is Ethiopian birr. If you don't, you will provide your service providers with cash that they can not spend without incurring expensive foreign conversion fees. If at all possible, prepare some small local currency on hand before you leave the airport to tip hotel porters and drivers.

When tipping during your trip to Ethiopia, it is crucial to use the native currency

The tip may already be included in your bill

In Ethiopia, service fees could be automatically added to the bill when you are in a bar, hotel or restaurant. Check your bill again before determining whether to tip. Adding a service charge is customary in some countries but not in others.

Use your own judgement

Tipping in Ethiopia is a fantastic way to recognize and reward excellent service. Tipping is optional if the service charge has not already been applied to your bill, but it is always appreciated. Before dismissing any gratuity tip request on their payment terminals, consider the difficult labor that Ethiopian restaurant and hotel staff frequently perform for lower-paying salaries.

Tipping on a business trip

Avoid being caught in an embarrassing situation during a business dinner. It is important to become familiar with worldwide tipping standards because tipping customs differ from nation to nation, preventing confusion and unpleasant situations!

Conclusion

Knowing how much to tip and being aware of the customs surrounding tipping as you travel through Ethiopia will greatly improve your trip. Your acts of thanks, whether you are dining at restaurants or touring with tour guides, will improve your interactions and help the communities where you visit.

As you plan your visit, don’t forget that applying for an Ethiopian eVisa is an essential step in ensuring a smooth entry into the country. You can conveniently apply for an Ethiopia eVisa via our website. The process is straightforward: complete an online application form, submit the required documents, and pay the visa fee—all from the comfort of your home. Once approved, you'll receive your eVisa directly via email, ready to print and present upon arrival.