Planning your dream trip to Costa Rica?
If you’re coming from the US, you’re probably wondering — how much should you tip in Costa Rica?
Tipping customs here are a little different, and honestly, a lot simpler once you know what to expect.
This ultimate guide is made just for American travelers like you, answering all your tipping questions with real examples, helpful ranges, and a few must-know local tips.
Let’s get you ready to tip like a pro — without overthinking it.
How Tipping Works in Costa Rica: The Basics 🇨🇷
First thing you gotta know — Costa Rica has a mandatory 10% service charge added to restaurant bills.
It’s called the “servicio incluido,” and yes, it’s required by law.
- How it’s split: That 10% is usually pooled among all staff: waiters, kitchen folks, sometimes even the manager.
- Is it enough? Not always. For regular meals, it covers basic service. But for outstanding service, locals (and savvy travelers) often add a bit extra.
✅ Tip Extra When:
- Your server goes above and beyond (helping with allergies, giving great tips, explaining dishes)
- The experience feels truly memorable
- You’re at a fine dining or tourist-heavy spot
💵 Good rule: Add an extra 5-10% in cash directly to your server. They’ll really appreciate it.
Tipping at Hotels: Who to Tip (And How Much) 🏨
When you arrive at your hotel, you’ll quickly meet the bellhops, housekeeping, concierge, and sometimes bar staff. Here’s what’s expected:
| Service Staff | How Much to Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bellhops | ₡1,000–₡2,000 per bag ($2–$4) | Tip when they help you on arrival, not every time they move bags. |
| Housekeeping | ₡2,000–₡4,000 per night ($4–$8) | Leave daily, not just at checkout. A little thank-you note doesn’t hurt! |
| Concierge | ₡5,000–₡15,000 ($10–$30) | Tip based on how complex the help is (e.g., booking special tours vs. giving basic directions). |
| Breakfast or Bar Staff | Small tips or ₡1,000–₡2,000 per meal or drink | Especially if service is table-side or personalized. |
✅ Pro tip: Always carry small bills or colones. Hotel staff appreciate cash tips they can use right away.
Tipping Taxi Drivers and Rideshares 🚕
Taxi drivers in Costa Rica don’t expect big tips like in the US. Here’s the real deal:
- For short rides: Simply round up the fare to the next 500 colones or leave small change.
- For longer trips or private drivers: You can tip ₡2,000–₡5,000 ($4–$10) depending on distance and service quality.
- Private drivers on multi-day trips: A daily tip of $10–$20 per person is respectful, especially if they act as informal guides too.
✅ Rideshare Apps (like Uber): In Costa Rica, tipping through the app is becoming normal. About 5-10% works well.
Tour Guides, Naturalists, and Adventure Guides 🏞️
Costa Rica’s tours are world-class — and so are the guides!
Good tipping makes a real difference for them.
| Type of Guide | How Much to Tip | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Group Tours | 10–15% of tour price | Adjust based on group size and guide’s energy and knowledge. |
| Private Guides | 15–20% of tour price | Especially if the tour is custom, detailed, or all-day. |
| Naturalist Guides | ₡5,000–₡15,000 ($10–$30) | Base it on duration (half-day vs. full-day) and how in-depth the experience was. |
| Adventure Guides (ziplining, rafting, etc.) | ₡3,000–₡6,000 ($5–$10) | Longer or super-personalized activities might deserve more. |
✅ Small groups or private experiences? Tip on the higher side — you’re getting personal attention!
Spa Services, Salons, and Wellness Staff 💆
After a relaxing massage or spa day, you’ll want to show your thanks.
Tipping is usually 10–15%, and it’s based on the pre-tax service cost, just like at home.
✅ If you book a package, you can tip a little extra per therapist.
Why Locals Prefer Colones (And So Should You) 💵
While many tourist spots accept USD, Costa Ricans (Ticos) prefer being tipped in colones because:
- They can use it immediately without needing to exchange.
- Small denominations make tipping faster and smoother.
- It’s seen as more respectful and shows you made an effort.
✅ Always keep ₡1,000 and ₡2,000 notes handy for casual tipping — it’s a real lifesaver.
Quickfire Costa Rica Tipping Tips: Dos and Don’ts 🚨
- ✅ Always tip in cash when possible.
- ✅ Round up taxi fares if the ride was smooth.
- ✅ Leave tips daily for housekeeping staff.
- ✅ Tip more for private, customized, or exclusive services.
- ❌ Don’t overtip wildly; it’s appreciated but not expected.
- ❌ Don’t forget small service staff like breakfast servers or spa assistants.
Final Recap: Your Tipping Cheat Sheet for Costa Rica 📋
| Service | Tip Amount |
|---|---|
| Restaurant Service | 5–10% extra (if great service) |
| Bellhops | ₡1,000–₡2,000 per bag |
| Housekeeping | ₡2,000–₡4,000 per night |
| Concierge | ₡5,000–₡15,000 based on complexity |
| Taxi | Round up or small cash tip |
| Tour Guides | 10–20% depending on group/private |
| Spa & Salon | 10–15% pre-tax |
| Adventure Guides | ₡3,000–₡6,000 per activity |
With these easy guidelines, you’ll show respect, enjoy great service, and blend in like a savvy traveler.
Costa Ricans are warm, welcoming people — and a thoughtful tip goes a long way.