Before a recent trip to South America, I investigated the tipping etiquette for South America. The standard response was that tipping was not required or expected but was appreciated. Very vague response for a collection of differing countries with differing cultures.
What I have come to learn is that Americans are seen as tippers or in some cases over tippers. So over time, there is some expectation to receive tips from Americans especially in Touristy areas. As a result, tipping for services in South and Central America has become very common and very much appreciated. This is my general guideline for tipping in South America:
Restaurants — 10% of the bill (15% if the service is specular). You will need to check you bill since some restaurants may include a tip on the bill so avoid tipping twice. In some cases, like Argentina, you bill may have a cubierto fee which is like a cover charge. Typically, this fee goes to the restaurant and not your server.
Hotel – For porters, it is $1 USD for each bag. Housekeeping should be $1 to $2 USD per night. You should tip a concierge between $5 USD to $10 USD.
Airport Baggage Handler of Skycap — $1 USD per bag
Local Guides — $5-10 USD per day, per person. If you hire a private guide, tipping is between 10% and 15% of the overall tour cost.
Cooks — $2-3 USD per day, per person. If the food is off the charts, you should consider more.
Driver for Tours — $3 USD per day, per person
Taxi Drivers – Just round up the fare
Just remember that if you are unsure of what to do, do what you think is right. The bottom line is that you need to remember that tipping is at your discretion. For more tipping guidelines, click here.