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Let’s face it—you’re not going to have a full understanding of tipping in Costa Rica when you’re first in-country. It’s included; it’s not included; your surf instructor may look at you and paddle away before you have a chance to even ask. Nobody here is begging you to tip them, nor is there any blatant inclination that you should. But there are certain times to give (and how much) that will enhance your experience for the locals waiting on (and teaching) you but also for an easier time on vacation.
Tipping in Costa Rica?
So… Do You Need to Tip in Costa Rica? Short answer? Yes—but not all the time and not how you think.
If you come from a culture where a tip is as much a part of the meal equation as the meal itself (yes, I’m talking about you, USA), then you’ll find the Costa Rican approach to tipping both simple and complicated. Simple because it’s a no-fuss approach. Complicated because of a few little details that make you hesitate before throwing around colones.
Restaurants: The 10% Rule (and the Real Talk)
Most sit-down restaurants in Costa Rica automatically include a 10% service charge in the bill. It’s legally required, and it shows up as “servicio” on your receipt. That’s your basic tip — no need to add more unless the service was exceptional.
That said, if your server was amazing, friendly, helped you practice your Spanish, or just made your night feel extra pura vida — feel free to leave a bit extra. Locals often round up or toss in a few coins or bills. It’s a nice gesture, but not mandatory.
Bars & Cafés: Less Clear, Still Chill
At casual spots like beach bars or coffee shops, tipping is less structured. If you order at the counter or it’s a quick drink, no one expects a tip — but again, if the vibe is good, rounding up or dropping some change is appreciated. At higher-end bars with table service, that 10% rule usually still applies.
Basically, if someone brings you something while you’re chilling with your feet in the sand, a few coins say “thanks” in every language.
Tour Guides & Drivers: Yes, Tip Them
Here’s where tipping really matters. If you go on a tour — whether it’s a half-day waterfall hike or a full-day volcano adventure — your guide is putting in serious effort to make your experience awesome.
A good rule of thumb?
- $10-$20 USD per person for a half-day tour
- $20–$40 USD per person for a full-day tour
For private tours or private guides, tip more if you’re happy
Same goes for shuttle drivers, boat captains, and naturalists who guide you through mangroves, jungles, or cloud forests. They’re often paid modest base wages and rely on tips to make a living — especially when they go the extra mile.
Hotel Staff: Keep It Simple and Kind
At hotels, you don’t need to tip for everything, but there are a few moments where it’s kind and customary:
- Bellhops – about $1–2 per bag
- Housekeeping – $1–$3 per day, left on the pillow or bedside table
- Concierge – if they helped you with a hard-to-get reservation or saved your rainy day with a last-minute tour, a small thank-you is always appreciated
You don’t need to tip everyone for everything — just the folks who went out of their way to help make your stay better.
Taxi Drivers: Round It Up
You’re not expected to tip taxi drivers in Costa Rica. But if the ride was smooth, the driver was helpful, or they didn’t complain about your four surfboards — rounding up the fare is a nice gesture. Especially if they helped with bags or shared some local wisdom on the way.
Tipping in Costa Rica – Small Towns and Rural Areas
In more rural parts of Costa Rica, tipping is even more low-key. People may not expect it at all — especially in sodas (local diners) or family-run lodges. But if the service is warm and genuine, even a small tip feels meaningful. A few coins, a kind word, or even just a big smile and “¡muchas gracias!” go a long way.
Want to Travel Costa Rica Without Guesswork?
At GoExploreWith.me, we do more than run tours — we help you move through Costa Rica smoothly, respectfully, and like a local. From private guides to epic wildlife adventures, you can book directly with people who actually live here. And yes, we always tell you when and how much to tip.
Looking for Places Where No One Expects a Tip — Just a Smile?
Download our free eBook: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of”
These are the kinds of places where the pura vida is real, the food is homemade, and the only thing more appreciated than a tip is your presence. Get it now and go explore differently.
