How much to tip in Costa Rica?
In Costa Rica, no fixed percentage is expected: round up the bill, or leave up to 10% for excellent service.
In Costa Rica, no fixed percentage is expected: round up the bill, or leave up to 10% for excellent service.
In Costa Rica, no fixed percentage is expected: round up the bill, or leave up to 10% for excellent service. A service charge of about 10% is very common at restaurants.
Currency: Costa Rican Colón (₡)
A service charge of about 10% is very common at restaurants. When a service charge is on the bill, adding more is optional. For good service, round up or leave small change in cash.
According to most guides, a 10% service charge ('servicio') is added to every restaurant bill, on top of 13% VAT. A further tip is optional: 5%–10% for excellent service. If the menu says 'impuestos no incluidos', the taxes will be added on top.
| Bill | Tip | Total |
|---|---|---|
| ₡15,000 | Round up (up to ₡1,500) | ₡15,000+ |
| ₡30,000 | Round up (up to ₡3,000) | ₡30,000+ |
| ₡60,000 | Round up (up to ₡6,000) | ₡60,000+ |
Amounts are examples only, in local currency (Costa Rican Colón).
No. A tip is optional.
In Costa Rica, no fixed percentage is expected: round up the bill, or leave up to 10% for excellent service.
A service charge of about 10% is very common at restaurants. When a service charge is on the bill, adding more is optional. For good service, round up or leave small change in cash.