Dreamcatchers Tipping Guide
Tipping is a taboo subject that doesn’t get talked about often.
For some, it’s a formality; for others, it’s a mathematical equation.
Tipping is much more than that; it is a method of communicating and expressing appreciation, connection, and love. Instead of seeing tipping as money leaving you, I recommend you observe it as abundance flowing through you. I think you will see that the Costa Rican people we meet are not working for money; they are doing and sharing what they love with care and attention to others.
Tipping is a way to reward the genuine efforts of people making memorable experiences for you. Instead of worrying about the cost of the money you are giving away and doing the math, I invite you to feel and experience the joy of making someone else happy and leaving a trail of joy as you go. When I tip, I like to imagine where that money will go—perhaps they will take their spouse to a much-needed romantic night out, or a father will take his kids to the zoo, or it might buy books for children to read, or to someone’s saving’s stash to buy a piece of land and farm it. Tips are seeds to dreams.
Your money didn’t come to you for free. You worked hard for it. It is yours. Sharing it is using the powerful magic of gratitude- something that the world needs more of. So tip with your heart.
Some facts about tipping in Costa Rica
You can tip in dollars or colones.
Restaurants include a 10% service charge, so tipping is not expected, but it's always appreciated. We will cover an added gratuity for our meals on behalf of everyone, so there is no need to tip during meals.
In Spanish, tips are called “propinas.”
The cost of living in Costa Rica is comparable to that of developed countries, such as the United States and Canada. When tipping, it’s best not to make the assumption that the dollar goes as far as it does in other countries like Mexico.
How much should I tip?
There is no one rule or mathematical equation that can answer this.
All people who work in tourism in Costa Rica operate under the premise to not expect a tip unless they earn it for exceptional service. Tipping is always optional, so please don’t feel pressured to do so. Treat it as a way to express and communicate human gratitude. The guides and service workers we work with have been hand-picked for their dedication, professionalism, and desire to over-achieve in helping us create a unique and memorable experience for you.
If you are unsure of what to tip for anyone please ask us at any point.
Sample Recommended Guidelines
“If you have a lot, give a lot. If you have a little, give a little”
Hotel cleaning staff ($3-5 dollars a night p/room)
Restaurant staff (Basic 10% is always included in the bill) any amount to tip is fine. 1,000 or 2,000 colones ($2-4US) is a good amount.
Local guides: $ 10-20 p/person
Our driver Javier will be with us for the entirety of the trip, loading suitcases, keeping us safe, and maintaining our bus in tip-top shape. We recommend tipping $100 per person at the end of the journey.
Dreamcatcher Guides, Phil and Ignacio
As trip leaders we cannot set guidelines for ourselves. When the journey is complete, we welcome tips with appreciation and an open heart. These tips are the winds to the sails of our dreams. Helping people connect to nature is our passion and livelihood and we welcome your support and appreciation.
Clients are welcome to tip us with cash, Venmo, PayPal, or check.
