Tipping Guidelines
We have put together this tipping reference in response to many requests from travelers worried about not sufficiently tipping or tipping too generously.
Although not mandatory, tipping is highly appreciated in all cases. Our general advice to travelers is to tip what you feel is appropriate and based on performance – using the guidelines below – and do not worry about offending anyone. You may have the same guide for several days – this will depend on your specific itinerary. It is a good idea to keep small denomination bills (either U.S. dollars or local currency) handy for tips. Gratuities are gladly accepted in U.S. dollars or local currency.
You can download this guide in PDF format here.
$5 per passenger, per day.
Airport transfers or short transfers: $5-$10, total.
Transfers (2-4 hours): $10-20, total.
Transfers (over 4 hours): $10-$30, total.
$5-$10 per passenger/per day.
Small group (2-6 passengers) – $30-$60 total per day.
Larger groups (over 6 passengers) – $50-$100 total per day.
Local guide – $5-$7, per passenger, per day.
Small group (2-6 passengers) – $20-$40 total per day.
Larger groups (over 6 passengers) – $40-$80 total per day.
Naturalist/Specialized* guide – $10-$15, per passenger, per day.
*Specialist guides might earn a larger tip than the average tour guide (for a special service performed, or if it generally feels appropriate).
$5-$10, per passenger, per night.
$10-$15, per person, per night.
Hotels: Luggage handlers – $1-$2 or $0.50 – $1 per bag; housekeeping staff – $1 per room per day; 10% for room service if the service charge has not already been added.
At restaurants throughout Latin America, 10 – 15% of your bill is customary and may be added automatically.
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Chile Natural Voyage Custom Experience
From the minute you arrive in Santiago, you will be able to see, feel, and hear the rich tradition and cultural significance of the longest country in the world. Your exciting adventure begins with a modern city tour through the capital’s most interesting and elegant neighborhoods and the historic downtown area.
Southern Patagonia Express – Argentina and Chile Tour
This experience of a lifetime will take you from Buenos Aires deep into Southern Patagonia, across Argentina and Chile, for up close encounters with glaciers and majestic granite spires. Your journey begins in the capital city of Buenos Aires, where you will receive your first introduction to this special country’s intriguing history and culture.
A Dive into Nature – Ecuador & Galapagos Tour Package
This tour of Ecuador focuses on natural history: the Andean highlands, Amazon rainforest and the Galapagos Islands. From Quito you will spend the day in Cotopaxi National Park, located on the high Paramo and home to the “highest active snowcapped volcano on earth” (19,314 ft.).
The Best of Patagonia Argentina Tour Package
Start in Buenos Aires, Argentina and a day to explore the city. From Puerto Madryn you will visit the Punta Tombo Penguin Colony and the quaint welsh village of Gaiman. On the following day you will spend the day on the wild Valdes Peninsula, home to wildlife such as the Southern Right Whale, sea lions, sea elephants and the mighty Orca.
