How Does Tipping Work in Costa Rica?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Americas
1The Quick Answer
A 10% service charge (ley de propina) is legally included in all restaurant bills, so no additional tip is required.
2What You Need to Know
Costa Rican law mandates a 10% propina (service charge) on all restaurant bills, so you are already tipping every time you dine out. You may leave an extra tip for truly exceptional service, but it is never expected. Tipping is more customary for tour guides and drivers, where 10–15 USD per day per guide is appreciated. Hotel housekeeping, airport porters, and taxi drivers are not generally tipped, though rounding up a fare is welcome.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Check your restaurant bill before adding extra — the 10% is already included by law.
- 2Nature and wildlife tour guides rely heavily on tips; 10–15 USD per day per person is a kind gesture.
- 3Tip in colones or USD — both are equally accepted by service workers.
How does this compare?
Tipping rules in nearby and similar countries:
Tip 10–15% at restaurants; also tip taxi drivers, hotel staff, and petrol station attendants.
A 10% service charge (gorjeta) is usually already included on restaurant bills and is optional to pay, but small extras are appreciated.
Tipping 15–20% is expected at restaurants in Canada, as it is a core part of service-industry compensation.
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More About Costa Rica
Costa Rica has no national rail system; intercity buses are the cheapest option, while shared tourist shuttles and domestic flights connect remote destinations.
Updated 2025-06
Costa Rica has good private hospitals in San José, but travel insurance is essential as private care is expensive and public hospitals are slow for non-emergencies.
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Costa Rica is generally law-relaxed with a 'pura vida' attitude, but wildlife protection, environmental laws, and anti-drug laws are strictly enforced.
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Dial 911 for all emergencies; tourists can also call 1800-TURISMO (1800-887476) for dedicated tourist assistance.
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Costa Rica is extremely casual with no strict dress requirements — light clothing is ideal for the coast and layers are needed for cooler highland areas.
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The legal drinking age is 18, alcohol is widely available, and drinking on most beaches is legal, but drunk driving is strictly enforced.
Updated 2025-06
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