How much to tip in Mahé

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 6/20/2024

How much to tip at restaurants

Tipping with cash
US cash and coins placed on a restaurant receipt, highlighting the practice of tipping for service.

Ready to dig into some Creole cuisine on the sun-kissed island of Mahé? When dining in Seychelles, the gratuity norm is somewhat akin to hunting for pirate treasure: thrill-worthy but also tricky! Mostly, a service charge of 5-10% is included in your bill, but if not, do feel free to leave a similar amount. Trust me, your friendly waiter would totally appreciate that extra bit of generosity for their stellar curating of your culinary escapade.

How much to tip at coffee shops

Next up is the question sweeter than cocos de mer honey: tipping at coffee shops. You know that perfect cup of Segafredo Zanetti that pulls you back from the brink of a sleepy afternoon? Well, saying thank you to the talented hands that craft that soothing brew, with a little tip of about 5-10% of the bill makes a lot of "cents". Here's a fun little secret: the tipping culture isn't very common in Seychelles. So, your little act of kindness might just put an extra sparkle in that barista's day!

How much to tip at bars

Table with tip and coffee
A customer leaves money as a tip next to a half-drunk cup of coffee, exhibiting the common practice of tipping for service.

Imagine this: you're watching the sun melt into the Indian Ocean, with a 'sundowner' cocktail in your hand, so potent, you can actually taste the sunset! Sounds absolutely fantastic, doesn’t it? Well, at such ambiance-soaked bars across Mahé, tips are generally not expected, but a gratuity of around 10% can be an excellent way to toast the bartender's mixology magic. If the service charge is included, sip back and relax. If not, "raise a tip" to their exceptional service!

How much to tip in a taxi

Explored the vibrant Victoria market and now heading back to your beachside villa? Time to hail a taxi! Generally, there isn’t a strong tipping norm for taxi rides in Mahé, but here’s where your gratuitous spirit can reign supreme. Rounding up your fare to the nearest 'SR' (Seychellois Rupee) is considered a generous gesture. And who knows, you might even get to hear an intriguing tale about the local lore in exchange!

Should you tip with card or cash

Ah, the age-old conundrum of card-versus-cash. When in Seychelles, tipping with cash is often the recommended route, mostly because it’s easier for the recipient to handle. However, card tipping isn't a faux pas either. It's always best to enquire directly so you can contribute seamlessly to the circle of Mahé your way.

There you have it, folks, my little tipping manifesto for the Seychelles' island gem, Mahé. Remember, tips are not mandatory but more of a sweet cherry on top of your tropical holiday!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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