Tipping in the service industry is a common practice in many countries, but when it comes to outdoor activities like horseback riding, the rules aren’t always clear. This guide will break down the etiquette of tipping horseback riding guides, helping you navigate this potentially awkward situation with confidence.
Horseback riding guide leading a group through a scenic trail
Understanding the Tipping Culture
The expectation of tipping varies significantly around the world. While tipping is customary in countries like the United States and Canada, it’s less common in other parts of the globe. Even within countries where tipping is prevalent, the specific practices can differ across industries.
“Guiding is very similar to the restaurant industry. It’s a service industry,” says Shane Robinson, a Seattle-based mountain guide and the founder of Graybird Guiding. He also guides for the company Alpine Ascents International. “Unfortunately, guides are probably not paid as well as they should be. So, most guides rely on those tips to make ends meet.”
Dave Hahn, a long-time guide for RMI Expeditions who has guided on peaks like Mount Rainier and Mount Everest, says, “I think of a tip as a reward for a meaningful time or for someone putting themselves out there for you, not as an expectation.”
With that in mind, let’s delve into the specifics of tipping your horseback riding guide.
When to Tip Your Horseback Riding Guide
While not mandatory, tipping your horseback riding guide is generally considered good etiquette, especially if they provided exceptional service. Consider tipping if your guide:
- Was knowledgeable and shared interesting information about the area and the horses.
- Ensured your safety and comfort throughout the ride.
- Went above and beyond to personalize the experience.
- Was friendly, engaging, and made the ride enjoyable.
How Much to Tip Horseback Riding Guides
A standard tip for a horseback riding guide is typically 10-20% of the total cost of the ride. Here’s a breakdown:
- 10%: Appropriate for satisfactory service.
- 15%: A good tip for good service, showing your appreciation.
- 20% or more: Reserved for excellent service that exceeded your expectations.
Maybe you’ve just thrown down a large sum for the riding experience. That’s a huge chunk of cash for a guided trip. Do you really have to tip on top of that? The answer is generally yes. “I sometimes find that when the cost of the trip is higher, people tend to tip less,” says Canadian guide Holly Walker, an ACMG-certified hiking and ski guide and owner of Fall Line Guides. So factor in a 10 to 20 percent tip based on the total price of the trip into your initial budget to reduce the shock factor.
It’s crucial to factor in the duration and intensity of the ride. A short, leisurely trail ride might warrant a smaller tip than a multi-day excursion.
Practical Considerations for Tipping
-
Cash is King: While some outfitters might allow you to add a tip to your credit card, cash is the most convenient and appreciated form of gratuity.
-
Prepare Ahead: Bring enough cash to cover the tip, especially if you’re riding in a remote location with limited ATM access. Sandy Cunningham, CEO and co-founder of the adventure travel company Uncharted, advises her clients to pack a dozen or so envelopes, each filled with predetermined amounts of money and labeled for their recipient: driver, guide, cook, cleaning staff, etc. “You have your travel pouch with all the important things: passports, vaccination cards, envelopes with tip money,” Cunningham says. “That way you’re ready.”
-
Timing is Everything: The best time to tip is at the end of the ride, after you’ve had a chance to assess the guide’s performance.
-
Consider the Entire Staff: If there are other staff members involved, such as wranglers or stable hands, consider tipping them as well, or inquire how tips are shared. If you are at a backcountry hut, a wilderness lodge, or a safari camp, you might have a guide or two, as well as a cook, caretaker, or cleaning staff. At the end of your trip, plan on tipping out everybody in a service position. First, tip your guide 10 to 20 percent of the total cost. If you have multiple guides, you can tip the lead guide and they can split that up amongst the other guides. Then leave a separate tip—look for a designated tip box, or ask your guide where to leave it—to be distributed amongst the rest of the staff.
-
Group Tipping: If you’re riding with a group, consider pooling your tips together for a more substantial gratuity. If you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, it’s best to collect your cash into one joint gratuity. You can agree on a set amount per person or each contribute what you’re able. That way, the guide isn’t receiving stealthy handshakes with cash from a dozen different people from the same group. “Having the group collect the tip is definitely preferred and nicer for everyone,” says Walker. “Everyone can still say their goodbyes, but it’s less transactions that way.”
Alternative Ways to Show Appreciation
If you’re unable to tip financially, there are other ways to show your appreciation:
- Write a positive review: Online reviews can be incredibly valuable for guides and outfitters.
- Refer friends and family: Word-of-mouth is a powerful marketing tool.
- Send a thank-you note: A handwritten note expressing your gratitude can go a long way.
- Offer a small gift: A thoughtful gift, such as a local treat or a piece of riding equipment, can also be a nice gesture. Any sign of gratitude—be it a hand-written card or a gift certificate or a nice bottle of whiskey—will be appreciated. But again, cash rules. “Buying your guide a meal or beer at the end of the trip—everyone will appreciate that. That’s nice in addition to your tip,” Hahn says.
What if the Ride Didn’t Go as Planned?
Like all outdoor activities, horseback riding can be subject to unforeseen circumstances. If the ride didn’t meet your expectations due to factors beyond the guide’s control (e.g., weather conditions), tipping is still customary. However, if the guide was negligent or provided poor service, you may choose to adjust the tip accordingly.
“Nobody should have to pay for service that was subpar,” Cunningham says. If your guide really let you down, factor that into your tip. But if you didn’t make it to the summit, that doesn’t mean your guide didn’t work hard.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
If you’re unsure about the tipping policy or the appropriate amount to tip, don’t hesitate to ask the outfitter or the guide directly. It’s always better to clarify beforehand than to make an awkward faux pas. “Before you go, check with the operation that you’re booking through if you have any questions about tipping,” Hahn says.
Conclusion
Tipping your horseback riding guide is a thoughtful way to acknowledge their hard work and enhance your overall experience. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your gratuity is both appropriate and appreciated.
