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.

Private Drivers: $10 half day. $15-$20 full day

Maitre d'/ Hostess- Not customary

Bartender- .50 to $1 per drink

Sommelier- Not customary

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

Coat Check- Not customary

Airport Sky Cap- $2 per bag

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

Bellhop- $1 per bag

Parking Valet- Not customary

Concierge- Not customary

Maid service in hotel- $2 per day; it’s helpful to leave your biggest tip on the first day to ensure excellent service

Room Service Attendant- 10% of the meal value

Beach/pool attendant- $2

Hairstylist/Manicurist- $2-$5

Massage Therapist- 15% of the value of the massage or spa treatment

Parking lot attendants- $1 to $2 for watching your vehicle

Tours:

Tour Guide- $3-$10 per person depending on the size of the group

Boat Driver- $2- $4

Tour Bus Driver- (for an all day tour) $5-$10

Fishing Guide/Captain- $30-$50 per day

Scuba Diving Tour- $10 per two-tank dive

Whitewater Rafting Guide- $10 per person for an all-day tour