Tipping practices can vary across different countries and regions, and it’s always a good idea to check for the latest information. In Madagascar, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory.
The official currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). It’s preferable to tip in the local currency, but some may accept major foreign currencies like the US Dollar or Euro.
Here are some insights about tipping in Madagascar:
Restaurants: In most restaurants a service charge may be included in the bill. If not, leaving a tip of around 5-10% of the total bill is customary.
Tipping in smaller, local restaurants may not be as common, but it is still appreciated.
Bars: Round up your bill at bars in Madagascar
Hotels: In upscale hotels, a service charge may be included, but it is customary to leave a small tip for hotel staff, such as housekeeping and porters.
For housekeeping, leaving 2,000 MGA per day is a common practice.
Porters and other service staff may also appreciate small tips such as 2,000 MGA per bag.
Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not as common in Madagascar, but rounding up the fare or leaving a small amount as a gesture of appreciation is appreciated.
Massages: Tip 10% to your massage therapist
Tour Guides in nature reserves: Tip 10,000 to 20,000 MGA to your tour guide
Tour Guides and Drivers: If you hire a local guide or driver, it’s customary to tip them as a token of appreciation for their services.
The amount can vary, but around 5-10% of the tour cost or a flat amount per day is often considered appropriate.
Tipping practices can evolve, and it’s always a good idea to check with locals or recent travelers for the most up-to-date information on tipping customs in Madagascar. Additionally, the level of service received and your overall satisfaction should be the primary factors influencing your decision to tip.