Tipping in Latin America: Country-by-Country Guide for 2026

Tipping in Latin America is confusing because every country has different customs. Overtip in Argentina and nobody bats an eye. Undertip in Mexico and your waiter remembers your face.

Country-by-Country

Colombia - **Restaurants:** 10% is usually included ("propina sugerida"). You can decline but it's considered rude - **Taxis/rides:** Not expected. Round up to the nearest 1,000 pesos ($0.25) - **Hotels:** 5,000-10,000 pesos/night ($1-2) for housekeeping - **Local Friends/guides:** 10-20% of the agreed rate is appreciated

Mexico - **Restaurants:** 15-20% (not included). This is important — waiters depend on tips - **Taxis:** Round up. Uber: not expected - **Hotels:** 20-50 MXN/night ($1-3) for housekeeping - **Street food:** Never tip at taquerías or food carts

Dominican Republic - **Restaurants:** 10% usually included ("propina legal"). Add 5-10% for good service - **Taxis:** Not expected unless they helped with bags - **All-inclusive resorts:** $1-2/drink to bartenders, $2-5/day for housekeeping

Argentina - **Restaurants:** 10% is standard (never included) - **Taxis:** Round up to nearest peso - **Delivery:** 10-15% via apps - **Important:** Cash tips only. Credit card tips don't always reach the server

Brazil - **Restaurants:** 10% is included ("taxa de serviço"). Extra not expected - **Taxis:** Round up - **Hotels:** R$5-10/night

Peru - **Restaurants:** 10% usually included. Add 5% for excellent service - **Trek guides:** $15-25/day for guide, $10-15/day for porter (important — they earn very little)

The Golden Rule

When in doubt, 10% works almost everywhere. If the service was exceptional, 15-20%. If service charge is already included (common in Colombia and Peru), you're not obligated to add more — but a small extra is always appreciated.

A Local Friend tells you exactly what's appropriate in their city — no more guessing.

Browse Local Friends on Roavi.