Tipping in Costa Rica
A 10% service charge is included in restaurant bills by law. Additional tips are optional but appreciated.
Tipping mandatoryRestaurants
10% service charge is included by law. Leave extra only for exceptional service.
Taxis & Rideshare
Round up to the nearest 500 CRC; not required.
Hotels
Small tip for housekeeping at mid-range and luxury hotels.
Tour Guides
Per person for day tours; more for multi-day adventures.
Bars & Cafes
Service charge is included; leave small change for extra.
General Tipping Guidelines
When visiting Costa Rica, tipping customs may differ from what you're used to. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- ✓Check if a service charge is already included on your bill before tipping extra.
- ✓When in doubt, observe what locals do or ask your hotel concierge for advice.
- ✓Keep small bills and coins in the local currency handy for tipping situations.
- ✓For exceptional service, a small tip is almost universally appreciated even in non-tipping cultures.
- ✓Tip in local currency whenever possible — foreign coins and small bills are hard for staff to exchange.
Quick Reference
- Currency:Costa Rican Colon (₡)
- Recommended cash:10,000-30,000 CRC per day