Updated
1. The general rule
A good baseline is around 10 percent, rising to 15 to 20 percent for exceptional service. Cash is king, and small bills are far more useful than large ones.
Carry small denominations: peso notes of 50, 100, and 200, or small US bills like ones and fives. Many businesses cannot break large notes, so a 50 or 100 dollar bill is hard to tip with.
2. Restaurants and bars
Most restaurant bills automatically include a 10 percent legal service charge (propina legal). That covers basic service, but many travelers add another 5 to 10 percent in cash for attentive service.
At resort bars and restaurants, a small cash tip to bartenders and servers often earns warmer, faster service over your stay.
3. Tours, drivers, and hotels
For excursion guides, a common range is roughly 200 to 300 pesos per person for a half-day tour and 400 to 600 pesos for a full day. Adjust up for a great guide.
For airport and taxi transfers, around 10 to 15 percent or a few dollars is standard, especially if the driver helps with luggage. Tip hotel housekeeping roughly 100 to 150 pesos a day and bellhops 50 to 100 pesos per bag.
4. Photographers and other staff
If a photographer or animation team makes your excursion better, a small cash tip is a kind gesture and very much appreciated.
When in doubt, tipping a little is almost always welcome. Keep a small stash of bills in a pocket so you are never caught without change.
Frequently asked questions
- Should I tip in pesos or dollars?
- Either works in tourist areas. Pesos are often the most convenient for the people you tip, but small US bills (ones and fives) are widely accepted and appreciated. Avoid large bills nobody can break.
- Do I still tip at an all-inclusive resort?
- Yes. Tips are allowed and greatly appreciated by staff, and small daily tips to housekeeping and bartenders often improve your experience.
- How much do I tip an excursion guide?
- Roughly 200 to 300 pesos per person for a half-day tour and 400 to 600 pesos for a full day, more if the guide was excellent.