Tipping in Costa Rica
Last Updated: Apr 16, 2012
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.
| 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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