Thinking about how much to tip in Colombia? You’re not alone.
If you’re from the US, tipping feels natural — but once you land in Bogotá or Medellín, you’ll notice it works a lil’ different there.
Let’s break down exactly what you need to know, without the boring textbook stuff. You’ll leave this article knowing exactly when to tip, how much, and why it matters.
Do You Have to Tip in Colombia?
Short answer? Not always.
Tipping in Colombia is appreciated but not mandatory like it often feels in the U.S.
In Colombia, service workers usually earn a bit better base salary compared to the U.S., where tips make up most of their income.
Still, a good tip for excellent service goes a long way and is always warmly welcomed.
Colombians are super polite about tipping — you’ll never be guilt-tripped or made to feel weird.
Quick Guide: Typical Tipping Amounts in Colombia
| Service Type | How Much to Tip (COP) | USD Equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% service charge suggested, extra 5-10% for amazing service | 5,000–20,000 COP | $1.25–$5 |
| Bars | Round up small bills, or tip 2,000–5,000 COP | $0.50–$1.25 | Especially if bartender is attentive |
| Hotels (Bellhops) | 5,000 COP per bag | $1.25 | Pay in cash directly |
| Hotels (Housekeeping) | 5,000–10,000 COP per night | $1.25–$2.50 | Leave it on pillow or desk |
| Taxi Drivers | Round up fare (e.g., 17,500 COP to 20,000 COP) | Small change | Tips not expected but rounding up is nice |
| Tour Guides | 10–20% of tour price | Varies | Especially for private tours |
| Spa/Massage Services | 5,000–10,000 COP or 10% | $1.25–$2.50 | Tip cash at desk or to therapist |
| Street Performers | 1,000–5,000 COP | $0.25–$1.25 | Small coins or bills appreciated |
Pro Tip: Always try to carry small bills (2,000, 5,000, 10,000 COP). Big bills can be awkward for small tips.
How Tipping Works at Restaurants in Colombia 🇨🇴
When you dine out, most restaurants will suggest a 10% service charge (“servicio”).
- They’ll literally ask you: “¿Desea incluir el servicio?” (“Would you like to include the service?”)
- Say yes unless the service was really terrible.
👉 Important:
The 10% service charge is usually shared among the staff — servers, kitchen crew, and busboys.
If your server goes above and beyond, it’s nice to leave an extra 5%–10% in cash directly for them.
That tip goes straight to your server, not the whole restaurant.
Story time:
I once had a server in Cartagena who gave me free coffee just because I was struggling with my Spanish. I left an extra 10,000 COP (~$2.50) and you would’ve thought I gave him a million bucks — he was so genuinely thankful.
What About Bars and Nightlife?
If you’re ordering a round of beers or cocktails at a casual bar, no need for a big tip.
Just round up your tab or slip the bartender a couple thousand pesos (like 2,000–5,000 COP).
At upscale clubs or cocktail lounges, if you have a server taking care of your table, then a 10%–15% tip in cash is a classy move. It keeps drinks flowing too. 😉
Should You Tip Taxi Drivers in Colombia?
No tip required, but rounding up is polite.
Example:
- Meter says 17,500 COP?
- Hand them 20,000 COP and say “Está bien” (“It’s fine.”)
- Watch them smile!
If the driver helps with heavy luggage or waits for you at a stop, you could throw in an extra 2,000–5,000 COP as a thank-you.
Tipping at Hotels: Who to Tip and How Much?
Hotels are where tipping can feel a bit closer to U.S. customs, especially in fancier places.
- Bellhops: 5,000 COP (~$1.25) per bag
- Housekeepers: 5,000–10,000 COP (~$1.25–$2.50) per night
- Concierge or helpful staff: Tip around 10,000–20,000 COP for special favors (like scoring reservations)
Always better to tip hotel staff in cash, handed personally. Tips left at the front desk might not reach the right person.
Tipping Tour Guides and Excursion Staff
If you’re doing a group tour, a tip of 10% of the total cost is a kind gesture.
Private guide? More personal service deserves 10%–20% of the tour cost.
Tip in cash at the end of the tour.
Trust me — your guide will remember you for it (and you’ll probably get better service next time).
What About Street Performers, Musicians, and Other Entertainers?
Colombia’s cities are full of amazing street performers — salsa dancers, mimes, singers.
If you stop and watch the show, it’s polite to tip.
Something small like 1,000–5,000 COP is totally fine.
Pro Tip:
Never feel pressured. Only tip if you genuinely enjoyed it.
Cash or Card: What’s the Best Way to Tip?
Always tip in cash whenever possible.
If you add a tip on your credit card slip, it may not actually reach the server or service provider directly.
Cash is king in Colombia — and it’s also way more appreciated.
Carry small bills or coins in your pocket, especially when visiting local markets or small shops.
What If the Service is Bad?
It happens.
- At a restaurant: You can politely decline the 10% service charge if the service was truly poor. Just say: “Prefiero no incluir el servicio, gracias.” (“I’d prefer not to include the service, thank you.”)
- No additional tip is needed afterward if service was that bad.
Still, try to be kind.
Mistakes happen, and cultural differences sometimes cause misunderstandings.
Why Are Tipping Customs Different in Colombia?
Colombia has different social norms compared to the United States.
Because many workers earn a livable base salary, tipping is seen as a bonus, not a requirement.
It’s more about genuine appreciation than obligation.
That’s why even a small tip feels meaningful — it’s truly seen as a compliment, not just payment.
Final Thoughts: Tipping in Colombia Made Easy
Tipping in Colombia isn’t stressful once you understand the basics.
When in doubt, round up, be polite, and tip in cash.
A little generosity — even a dollar or two — can make someone’s day in Colombia.
And honestly? It’ll make your travel experience a lot richer too.