Travellers often ask us how tipping works in Uzbekistan. The short answer: tips are never obligatory, but they are appreciated when you are happy with the service. Nobody should ask you for one, and a good guide will not hint at it.
Guides and drivers
On a private tour, tips for the guide and driver are not included in the price — we say so on every tour page. If you enjoyed the day, a tip given at the end, directly to the person, is the usual way. On multi-day trips, many travellers tip at the end of their time with each guide or driver rather than every day.
Restaurants and cafés
Many restaurants add a service charge to the bill, often shown as a percentage at the bottom. If it is there, no extra tip is expected; you may round up if you wish. In simple cafés and chaikhanas without a service charge, leaving the small change is common.
Hotels
Porters and housekeeping staff appreciate a small tip, but it is not expected in the way it is in some countries.
Taxis and bazaars
Taxi drivers do not expect tips; agree the fare or use a ride app. At the bazaar, there is no tipping — but polite bargaining is part of the experience.
Currency
Tips are usually given in Uzbek som. Small notes are useful to carry; change can be hard to find in some places.
Our view
Tip what feels right for the service you received — or nothing, if you were not happy. Either way, tell us: honest feedback helps our guides more than anything.
