Tipping in South America: A Patchwork of Traditions
Tipping in South America is neither universally expected nor completely rejected—it falls somewhere in between. Most countries include service charges or expect modest tips in certain industries. However, unlike in the U.S., there is no pressure to tip large percentages or tip for every service interaction.
Where Tipping Is Expected (Modestly)
🇧🇷 Brazil:
A 10% service charge is often added to the bill. Additional tips are not expected, though you can round up or give extra in touristy areas. Tipping taxi drivers isn’t customary, but rounding up fares is polite.
🇨🇱 Chile:
A 10% propina (tip) is typically added to restaurant bills, though you can decline it. It’s also common to tip hotel porters and guides a small amount.
🇦🇷 Argentina:
Tipping is expected in restaurants (around 10%), but it’s often done in cash, even if paying the bill by card. Tips are also given to hotel staff and taxi drivers (round up).
Where Tipping Is Appreciated but Optional
🇨🇴 Colombia:
A 10% tip may be included on restaurant bills. If not, leaving one is appreciated but not mandatory. For taxis and other services, rounding up is fine.
🇵🇪 Peru:
A tip of 10% is standard in restaurants if not included. Tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff may expect tips, especially in tourist regions.
🇪🇨 Ecuador:
Restaurants often include a 10% service charge. You may leave a little extra for excellent service, but it’s not required.
Where Tipping Is Minimal
🇧🇴 Bolivia:
Tipping is not common, especially among locals. Tourists may leave small tips in restaurants or for guides, but it’s more of a bonus than an expectation.
🇵🇾 Paraguay:
Some upscale restaurants may include a service charge. Rounding up or tipping 5–10% is appreciated but not widespread.
🇺🇾 Uruguay:
Tipping is common in urban restaurants—usually 10%. In smaller towns, less is expected, and locals may not tip at all.
Why South America Stays Grounded on Tipping
In many South American countries, tipping is a gesture of gratitude, not a wage replacement. Service fees are often built into pricing, and there’s no expectation of 15–25% gratuities like in the U.S. For consumers, this reduces anxiety and lets you focus on the experience—not the math.
Tip Creep Warning for Tourists
Tourists often bring U.S. tipping habits abroad. While it’s generous, it can alter expectations and lead to increased reliance on tips in places where workers should be fairly paid. When in South America, follow local norms—and resist the pressure to overtip.
Related Article: