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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Costa Rica Sky to Sea Tour
Trekking from high mountains to lush rainforests. This trekking tour begins in Costa Rica’s southern mountains, part of The Talamanca Range and La Amistad National Park, a World Heritage Site.
Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – Peru EcoCamps
The Peru EcoCamps Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: a glamping trek from the Mollepata valley, around Mount Salkantay to the legendary city of Machu Picchu. This sacred citadel has been fascinating and enchanting visitors for more than a century; it is a portal to the past, to the incredible history of the rise and fall of the Incas, the most advanced civilization of the Americas.
Blancaneaux Lodge & Turtle Inn Belize Tour Package
This weeklong package showcases both of our luxurious resorts in Belize. You’ll stay three nights in a stylish Riverfront Cabaña at a mountain hideaway at Blancaneaux Lodge, where you can swim beneath cascading waterfalls and explore the exotic flora and fauna of the tropical rainforest.
Complete Bolivia – Bolivia Tour Package
From the lush Amazonian lowlands to the dazzling expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia is a country of breathtaking contrasts and deep-rooted traditions. This journey begins in Santa Cruz, a vibrant gateway where colonial charm meets modern energy. Here, you’ll explore leafy plazas, bustling markets, and wildlife-rich habitats that give you a taste of the country’s extraordinary biodiversity.
