Table of contents<\/h2>- Do You Tip in Peru?<\/a><\/li>
- Tipping in Restaurants and Bars<\/a><\/li>
- What to Do in Unexpected Tipping Situations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Do You Tip in Peru?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
To begin with, tipping is generally considered good practice amongst travelers to Peru. You\u2019ll find you\u2019re expected to tip at most establishments that you would normally, such as restaurants, bars, hotels, airports, on tours, etc. You can also tip in a situation where you feel you received outstanding service. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Quick tip:<\/strong> Just a little note before we get started, we recommend you always keep a handful of coins and small change on you. In many situations, it\u2019s customary to give a very small amount. Many people who work in the establishments listed below will earn around the national minimum wage, so even small tips can make a meaningful difference. If you\u2019re ever unsure, rounding up or leaving a small amount is always appreciated but never obligatory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Tipping](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/tipping-in-peru1080x719-1-1024x682.jpg\")
A customer leaves a coin as a tip at a shop<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHow Much Should You Tip in Peru?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re short on time, here\u2019s a quick breakdown of tipping in Peru depending on the situation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Restaurants:<\/strong> Around 10% (if not already included)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bars:<\/strong> 1\u20132 soles per drink<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tour guides (day tours):<\/strong> 20\u201360 soles per person<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Trekking staff:<\/strong> 30\u201340 soles per day per trekker<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Hotels:<\/strong> 3\u201310 soles per day, depending on service<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Taxis:<\/strong> Not expected, but you can round up<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
As a general rule, tipping in Peru is appreciated but not always mandatory. In tourist areas, it\u2019s more expected, whereas in smaller, local establishments, it\u2019s less common.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tipping in Restaurants and Bars<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s start by saying that in most bars and restaurants in Peru, gratuity isn\u2019t included in your bill. If it is, it\u2019ll only be at high-end places, and you\u2019ll see it mentioned at the bottom of the check, where it\u2019ll say something like \u201810% service charge.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The general rule at restaurants, especially in a busy zone and the tourist areas, is 10%, but feel free to give more or less if the service deserves it. In some, you can tip with a credit card and will often be asked if you want to, but most prefer it in cash if you have it to hand. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The smaller, local places don\u2019t usually expect you to leave anything. However, there\u2019s no harm in leaving a couple of soles on the table when you leave. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
At bars, most people tend to leave 1 or 2 soles per drink, but if you order any food, it\u2019s better to apply the 10% rule. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Extra tip:<\/strong> You\u2019ll often hear the waiter ask you whether you want a boleta or a factura. In most cases, travelers choose a boleta (receipt), as a factura is typically used for registered businesses<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Tipping-in-Restaurants-and-Bars.jpg\")
Customers leave a tip at a restaurant after receiving good service<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nTipping Tour Guides and Trekking Staff<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
While you\u2019re on your vacation in Peru, chances are you\u2019ll take part in at least one guided tour or trek, especially if you\u2019re heading to Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/a>. In these situations, tipping is customary and widely expected, as it forms an important part of the team\u2019s income.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTipping usually takes place on the final day of the trek, often as part of a small thank-you moment with the team. Your guide will normally explain how it works and help organize the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s best to bring enough cash with you in small denominations, as you won\u2019t have access to ATMs during the trek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On a Day Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you join a group tour for the day, like a visit to Maras and Moray<\/strong><\/a>, it\u2019s customary to tip your guide at the end of the experience. For a half-day tour, around 15\u201317 soles ($5\u2013$6) per person is appropriate, while for a full-day tour, 20\u201325 soles ($7\u2013$8) per person is a good guideline.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you opt for a private tour, tips are typically higher since the guide is dedicated solely to your group. In this case, you might consider 30\u201335 soles ($10\u2013$12) for a half-day and 50\u201360 soles ($17\u2013$20) for a full day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For drivers, a tip of around 10 soles ($3\u2013$4) for the day is appreciated, especially if they\u2019ve provided a safe and comfortable journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On a Multi-Day Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tipping becomes a little more structured on multi-day treks, like the Salkantay Route<\/strong><\/a>, as there\u2019s a full team working behind the scenes to make your experience possible. This often includes guides, cooks, porters, and\/or horsemen.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFrom our experience running treks across the Cusco region, this team plays a huge role in your overall experience, often working long hours in challenging conditions to ensure everything runs smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Trekking Staff:<\/strong> The trekking staff is responsible for carrying equipment, preparing meals, setting up camp, and supporting the group throughout the journey. A typical contribution is around 30\u201340 soles per day per trekker, which usually totals around 120\u2013160 soles ($35\u2013$45) depending on the length of the trek.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTips are normally collected as a group and handed to the lead guide at the end of the trek, who then distributes them fairly among the team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Restaurants](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/tipping-inthe-trek-or-resaurants-1080x720-1-1024x683.jpg\")
A couple of hikers enjoy lunch during their trek along the Inca Trail<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Guide: <\/strong>Your guide is with you every step of the journey\u2014sharing local knowledge, managing logistics, and making sure everyone stays safe and enjoys the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\nA fair tip for a guide is usually 60\u201380 soles ($15\u2013$20) per person for the entire trek, depending on the level of service and the length of the trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A quick note on trekking tips:<\/strong> While tipping is expected, it should always reflect your experience. These are guidelines rather than strict rules, so feel free to adjust based on the level of service you receive. Even a modest tip is genuinely appreciated and goes a long way in supporting the people who make your trek possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Salkantay](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/INCA-TRAIL-guide-to-tipping-thestaff1080x720-1024x683.jpg\")
A group of porters presents various dishes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nTipping in Hotels and Spas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tipping in hotels in Peru often depends on the kind of hotel. More economical hotels and hostels often don\u2019t see tips, unlike the luxury hotels in larger cities. However, this doesn\u2019t mean that if you receive excellent service, you shouldn\u2019t tip. In fact, they\u2019re more likely to appreciate it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you stay in the larger chain hotels, about 3 soles ($1) per day is a decent tip for housekeeping and porters between $1-$3 a day for all their help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the Sacred Valley, there are many luxury spa hotels, for which around 10 soles should be well-received for each service. If you head to a smaller spa for the day in Cusco, 5 soles should be enough for each service. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tipping in Taxis and Public Transport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When you use public transport or taxis, it\u2019s not commonplace to leave a tip. Buses have a set fare, but taxis don\u2019t, so you should negotiate a price before getting in. You might feel the urge to give a little extra for great service, but most Peruvians would tell you it\u2019s not needed. You could give 2-3 soles if a driver helps you take your bags into your accommodation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Salkantay](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/tipping-in-transport-1080x720-1-1024x683.jpg\")
Tourists chat with the tour bus driver<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nTipping at the Airport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The first place you\u2019ll experience when you arrive in Peru is the airport. You\u2019ll likely notice a lot of porters offering to help with your bags who\u2019ll expect a little in return. You don\u2019t need to accept their help if you prefer to do things by yourself. Just kindly say no to them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you already have a designated person or guide meeting you at the airport, there should be someone with a board or piece of paper with your name on it. They\u2019ll likely have someone to help you with your bags, so you definitely won\u2019t need the help of an extra porter in this case. A reasonable tip if you do use a porter is about two soles a bag. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tipping in Gas Stations and Public Restrooms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When you stop at gas stations, you\u2019ll notice that the service attendants fill your gas for you. You can tip for extra services like checking tire pressure and cleaning windows if you rent a car. 1 sol is sufficient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For restrooms, you\u2019ll often find you need to pay a small fee (usually 20 cents) to use them. In some, there won\u2019t be a fee, and you\u2019ll see a little basket or pot inside for you to leave a little something inside for the maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Quick Peru Tipping Guide<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Do You Tip in Peru?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
To begin with, tipping is generally considered good practice amongst travelers to Peru. You\u2019ll find you\u2019re expected to tip at most establishments that you would normally, such as restaurants, bars, hotels, airports, on tours, etc. You can also tip in a situation where you feel you received outstanding service. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Quick tip:<\/strong> Just a little note before we get started, we recommend you always keep a handful of coins and small change on you. In many situations, it\u2019s customary to give a very small amount. Many people who work in the establishments listed below will earn around the national minimum wage, so even small tips can make a meaningful difference. If you\u2019re ever unsure, rounding up or leaving a small amount is always appreciated but never obligatory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re short on time, here\u2019s a quick breakdown of tipping in Peru depending on the situation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a general rule, tipping in Peru is appreciated but not always mandatory. In tourist areas, it\u2019s more expected, whereas in smaller, local establishments, it\u2019s less common.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s start by saying that in most bars and restaurants in Peru, gratuity isn\u2019t included in your bill. If it is, it\u2019ll only be at high-end places, and you\u2019ll see it mentioned at the bottom of the check, where it\u2019ll say something like \u201810% service charge.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n The general rule at restaurants, especially in a busy zone and the tourist areas, is 10%, but feel free to give more or less if the service deserves it. In some, you can tip with a credit card and will often be asked if you want to, but most prefer it in cash if you have it to hand. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The smaller, local places don\u2019t usually expect you to leave anything. However, there\u2019s no harm in leaving a couple of soles on the table when you leave. <\/p>\n\n\n\n At bars, most people tend to leave 1 or 2 soles per drink, but if you order any food, it\u2019s better to apply the 10% rule. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Extra tip:<\/strong> You\u2019ll often hear the waiter ask you whether you want a boleta or a factura. In most cases, travelers choose a boleta (receipt), as a factura is typically used for registered businesses<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you\u2019re on your vacation in Peru, chances are you\u2019ll take part in at least one guided tour or trek, especially if you\u2019re heading to Machu Picchu<\/strong><\/a>. In these situations, tipping is customary and widely expected, as it forms an important part of the team\u2019s income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tipping usually takes place on the final day of the trek, often as part of a small thank-you moment with the team. Your guide will normally explain how it works and help organize the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s best to bring enough cash with you in small denominations, as you won\u2019t have access to ATMs during the trek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you join a group tour for the day, like a visit to Maras and Moray<\/strong><\/a>, it\u2019s customary to tip your guide at the end of the experience. For a half-day tour, around 15\u201317 soles ($5\u2013$6) per person is appropriate, while for a full-day tour, 20\u201325 soles ($7\u2013$8) per person is a good guideline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you opt for a private tour, tips are typically higher since the guide is dedicated solely to your group. In this case, you might consider 30\u201335 soles ($10\u2013$12) for a half-day and 50\u201360 soles ($17\u2013$20) for a full day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For drivers, a tip of around 10 soles ($3\u2013$4) for the day is appreciated, especially if they\u2019ve provided a safe and comfortable journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tipping becomes a little more structured on multi-day treks, like the Salkantay Route<\/strong><\/a>, as there\u2019s a full team working behind the scenes to make your experience possible. This often includes guides, cooks, porters, and\/or horsemen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From our experience running treks across the Cusco region, this team plays a huge role in your overall experience, often working long hours in challenging conditions to ensure everything runs smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Trekking Staff:<\/strong> The trekking staff is responsible for carrying equipment, preparing meals, setting up camp, and supporting the group throughout the journey. A typical contribution is around 30\u201340 soles per day per trekker, which usually totals around 120\u2013160 soles ($35\u2013$45) depending on the length of the trek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tips are normally collected as a group and handed to the lead guide at the end of the trek, who then distributes them fairly among the team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Guide: <\/strong>Your guide is with you every step of the journey\u2014sharing local knowledge, managing logistics, and making sure everyone stays safe and enjoys the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A fair tip for a guide is usually 60\u201380 soles ($15\u2013$20) per person for the entire trek, depending on the level of service and the length of the trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A quick note on trekking tips:<\/strong> While tipping is expected, it should always reflect your experience. These are guidelines rather than strict rules, so feel free to adjust based on the level of service you receive. Even a modest tip is genuinely appreciated and goes a long way in supporting the people who make your trek possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tipping in hotels in Peru often depends on the kind of hotel. More economical hotels and hostels often don\u2019t see tips, unlike the luxury hotels in larger cities. However, this doesn\u2019t mean that if you receive excellent service, you shouldn\u2019t tip. In fact, they\u2019re more likely to appreciate it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you stay in the larger chain hotels, about 3 soles ($1) per day is a decent tip for housekeeping and porters between $1-$3 a day for all their help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the Sacred Valley, there are many luxury spa hotels, for which around 10 soles should be well-received for each service. If you head to a smaller spa for the day in Cusco, 5 soles should be enough for each service. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When you use public transport or taxis, it\u2019s not commonplace to leave a tip. Buses have a set fare, but taxis don\u2019t, so you should negotiate a price before getting in. You might feel the urge to give a little extra for great service, but most Peruvians would tell you it\u2019s not needed. You could give 2-3 soles if a driver helps you take your bags into your accommodation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first place you\u2019ll experience when you arrive in Peru is the airport. You\u2019ll likely notice a lot of porters offering to help with your bags who\u2019ll expect a little in return. You don\u2019t need to accept their help if you prefer to do things by yourself. Just kindly say no to them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you already have a designated person or guide meeting you at the airport, there should be someone with a board or piece of paper with your name on it. They\u2019ll likely have someone to help you with your bags, so you definitely won\u2019t need the help of an extra porter in this case. A reasonable tip if you do use a porter is about two soles a bag. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When you stop at gas stations, you\u2019ll notice that the service attendants fill your gas for you. You can tip for extra services like checking tire pressure and cleaning windows if you rent a car. 1 sol is sufficient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For restrooms, you\u2019ll often find you need to pay a small fee (usually 20 cents) to use them. In some, there won\u2019t be a fee, and you\u2019ll see a little basket or pot inside for you to leave a little something inside for the maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow Much Should You Tip in Peru?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Tipping in Restaurants and Bars<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tipping Tour Guides and Trekking Staff<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
On a Day Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
On a Multi-Day Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tipping in Hotels and Spas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tipping in Taxis and Public Transport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tipping at the Airport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tipping in Gas Stations and Public Restrooms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Quick Peru Tipping Guide<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/Giving-Out-Trekking-Tips-Individually.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/visit-to-machu-picchu.jpg\")