Tipping in Cameroon | africatourvisa

Tipping in Cameroon is generally regarded as a kind gesture of appreciation for good service, rather than a mandatory expectation. While not deeply ingrained in the culture as it might be in some Western countries, it is increasingly common, particularly in tourist-focused areas and establishments. Tipping can significantly supplement the income of service staff, whose wages may be low.

1. Restaurants Tipping in Cameroon

Here's a breakdown of tipping etiquette for various services:

• Recommendation: If you are satisfied with the service, a tip of 10-15% of the bill is considered customary, especially in more formal restaurants in major cities like Douala and Yaoundé.
• Service Charge: Always check your bill first. Some establishments, particularly higher-end restaurants or hotels, may already include a "service charge" in the total. If a service charge is included, you are not obligated to tip extra, but you can leave a small additional amount if the service was exceptional.
• Casual Eateries: In more casual cafes or local "chop houses," tipping is less expected, but a small amount for good service would be appreciated.

2. Hotel Staff Tipping In Cameroon

• Porters/Bellboys: For carrying luggage, 500-1000 CFA Francs (XAF) per bag or per service is a good general guideline.
• Housekeeping/Maids: For daily cleaning, 500-1000 XAF per day is appropriate. It's often best to leave a cumulative tip at the end of your stay if you wish to tip the same person.
• Concierge/Front Desk: Tipping is less common unless they provide exceptional service, such as arranging difficult bookings or solving significant problems. A small thank you might suffice.

3. Taxi Drivers Tipping In Cameroon

• Not Expected, but Appreciated: Tipping taxi drivers is not a strong custom in Cameroon, especially since fares are often negotiated upfront.
• Rounding Up: However, if the driver is helpful, friendly, or assists with luggage, rounding up the fare to the nearest convenient amount or adding a small extra amount (e.g., 200-500 XAF) is a nice gesture and will be appreciated.

4. Tour Guides and Safari Drivers

• Highly Appreciated: For tour guides and safari drivers, tips are more common and highly appreciated, as they often rely on them to supplement their income. They work hard to ensure a good experience.
• Guidelines: Local Guides (half-day/full-day): 5,000 - 10,000 XAF per person per day (roughly $8-$16 USD) for a good guide is a reasonable guideline. Safari Drivers/Guides (multi-day): For multi-day safaris, the amount can vary, but generally higher. Some sources suggest $8-$15 (USD) per person per day for guides and drivers. It's often distributed at the end of the trip.
• Team Tipping: If you're part of an organized tour with a driver and guide, confirm if there's a collective tipping system or if you should tip them individually.
• Porters on Treks (e.g., Mount Cameroon): These individuals do incredibly hard work. Tipping them generously is crucial. Discuss with your tour operator or guide for specific recommendations, but it could range from 5,000 - 10,000 XAF per porter per day, depending on the difficulty and length of the trek.

5. Other Services

• Hairdressers/Barbers: A small tip for good service is appreciated.
• Baggage Handlers (at airports): Have small denominations ready, as they will often expect a small tip (e.g., 200-500 XAF) for assisting with your bags.
• Bartenders: Tipping bartenders is generally not customary in Cameroon.
• Car Guards: In some areas, individuals might "guard" your parked car. If they are in uniform and authorized, a small tip upon your return (e.g., 100-200 XAF) is sometimes given. If they are unofficial and persistent, you are not obliged to tip.

General Tipping Advice

• Always Use Local Currency (XAF): Tip in Central African CFA Francs (XAF). Foreign currency is generally inconvenient for service staff.
• Small Denominations: Keep a supply of small denominations (500 XAF, 1,000 XAF, 2,000 XAF notes) readily available for tipping.
• Directly to the Individual: Whenever possible, hand the tip directly to the person who provided the service.
• Discretion: Tipping is a personal choice based on your satisfaction with the service. While appreciated, it should feel like a genuine gesture of gratitude.
• Be Polite and Smile: A genuine "merci" or "thank you" goes a long way, especially when accompanied by a tip.