Tipping in Costa Rica
In Spanish, the word propina means tip. Tipping is always a personal choice, and visitors are encouraged to tip an amount they find appropriate. The level of service and your budget are important factors as well. Below is a suggested tipping guide for your travels in Costa Rica. We encourage you to reward guides and service professionals based on their performance.
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Airport Sky Cap |
$1 or $2 per bag |
Bartender |
50 cents to $1 per drink |
Beach/pool attendant |
$2 |
Bellhop |
$1 per bag |
Boat Driver |
$2- $4 |
Fishing Guide/Captain |
$30-$50 per day |
Hairstylist/Manicurist |
$2-$4 |
Maid service in hotel |
$2 per day; it’s helpful to leave your biggest tip on the first day to ensure excellent service. |
Massage Therapist |
15% of the value of the massage or spa treatment |
Parking lot attendants |
$1- $2 for two to three hours |
Private Drivers |
$10 half day and $15-$20 full day |
Room Service Attendant |
10% of the meal value |
Scuba Diving Tour |
$10 per two-tank dive |
Taxi Driver |
For short distances, rounding up to the next dollar is appreciated. For longer hauls, $1-$5 extra depending on the length of the trip |
Tour Bus Driver |
$5-$10 (for an all-day tour) |
Tour Guide |
$3-$10 per person depending on the size of the group |
Waiter/Waitress |
In all mid-range and upscale restaurants, 10% service is already included in the check; an extra 10% is appreciated if the service was exceptional |
Whitewater Rafting Guide |
$5-$10 per person for an all-day tour |
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