Tipping in Peru works a little differently than in the United States. Tips are appreciated, but they aren’t expected everywhere. Amounts are usually smaller. And in many restaurants, a service charge may already be on your bill.
For US travelers, that can feel confusing. In this guide, you’ll learn when and how much to tip in Peru, from restaurants to tour guides and hotel staff. You’ll also learn which currency to use and how a little planning makes tipping easy. The ranges below are general guidelines. Always tip based on the service you received.
Tipping in Peru: The Basics
Peru uses the sol (S/). Tip in soles whenever you can. Some places in tourist areas accept US dollars, but soles are easier for workers to use. Coins and small bills are hard to find in some places, so keep a stash ready.
A few general rules:
- Tipping is a voluntary thank-you.
- Smaller amounts than in the US are normal.
- Hand your tip directly to the person when possible.
- Cash works best. Card terminals often don’t have a tip option.
How Much to Tip in Restaurants and Cafés
Casual restaurants
In simple local restaurants, including those serving a set lunch menu, tipping isn’t expected. Rounding up or leaving a few coins is a kind gesture.
Mid-range and fine dining
Check your bill first. Some restaurants add a service charge, often listed as “servicio” or “recargo al consumo.” If it’s there, no extra tip is needed.
If there’s no service charge, a tip of about 10% is common in nicer restaurants. In mid-range places, 5% to 10% is generous.
Cafés and bars
Rounding up or leaving a sol or two is enough at a counter. For table service, a few soles per round is a nice touch.
How Much to Tip Guides, Drivers and Hotel Staff
Tour guides
Guides are often the heart of a great trip. They share history, stories and local knowledge you won’t find in any book. For a group day tour, around S/10 to S/20 per person is a common thank-you. For a private guide or a multi-day trip, many travelers tip more.
On a guided visit to Machu Picchu, your guide leads you through the citadel and its history. It’s a great moment to say thank you.
Drivers
For day tours, many travelers give the driver around S/5 to S/10 per person. For private airport transfers, a few soles is a kind gesture, especially if they help with your luggage. Taxi drivers aren’t usually tipped, but you can round up.
Hotel staff
- Porters: about S/3 to S/5 per bag.
- Housekeeping: about S/5 to S/10 per night. Leave it daily with a short note, since staff can change.
- Concierge: a tip for special help, such as a hard-to-get reservation.
Trekking teams
On multi-day treks, groups often collect tips at the end for guides, cooks and porters. Ask your operator for local guidance.
Why Tipping Thoughtfully Matters
Tourism supports many families in Peru. Tips are a direct way to thank the people who make your trip special. Giving them in local currency, and directly to each person, helps that money stay where it belongs.
Thoughtful tipping is part of traveling responsibly. Our guide on how to practice responsible travel shares more simple habits. You can also learn how small local businesses work in our story about Sacred Valley chicha bars.
Tipping on a Good Life Expeditions Tour
On the Machu Picchu Getaway and Classic Peru, your hotels, transfers, tours, guides and entrance tickets are included. Tips aren’t included, so you decide how to thank your guides and drivers.
Here’s an easy plan:
- Get soles at an ATM when you arrive, or exchange a small amount.
- Ask for small bills when you can.
- Keep tip money separate in an envelope or pocket.
- Set some aside for lunch in Aguas Calientes, which isn’t included, and other meals.
Spending a few days in Lima first? See our ideas for Lima after dark.
Good Life Expeditions is the travel brand of MEDLIFE. A part of what you invest in your trip stays in Peru and helps fund MEDLIFE’s projects in local communities.
FAQ: Tipping in Peru
Is tipping expected in Peru?
Not everywhere. Tips are appreciated, especially for guides, drivers and good restaurant service. In simple local restaurants, tipping isn’t expected.
Should I tip in soles or dollars in Peru?
Soles are best. Some tourist businesses accept US dollars, but soles are easier for workers to use.
How much should I tip a tour guide in Peru?
For a group day tour, around S/10 to S/20 per person is a common thank-you. Many travelers tip more for private guides or multi-day trips.
Travel With Confidence and Gratitude
Tipping in Peru is simple once you know the basics. A small, thoughtful thank-you means a lot to the people who make your journey special. Let us plan the rest of your trip, so you can focus on the experience.
contact our team to start planning.
