Tipping Etiquette in Panama: What Travelers Should Know

When planning a trip to Panama, many visitors wonder: What’s the right way to tip? Here’s what you need to know:

💡 First things first: By law in Panama, tipping is always voluntary. No business can require it or add it automatically without your approval. What follows is a guide to what is common in practice — and it often varies depending on how casual or upscale the place is.

💵 Restaurants & Cafés: Most people leave a 10% tip, but it’s optional. In more casual places, locals may leave nothing beyond the bill, while in upscale restaurants, it’s common to leave the 10% or more for excellent service.

🧳 Hotels: Bellhops are usually tipped $1–$2 per bag, and housekeeping $1–$2 per day. In higher-end hotels, slightly higher amounts are sometimes given.

🚖 Taxis & Rides: Tipping taxi drivers isn’t expected. Rounding up to the nearest dollar is polite. For private drivers or more premium transport services, travelers sometimes add a small tip.

🎤 Tour Guides: Tipping guides is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their expertise. In practice, many visitors leave 10–20% of the tour cost, particularly when the service is private or customized. At The Panama Tours Company, our guides are passionate about sharing Panama’s hidden gems — tips are always appreciated but never required.

✨ Our Difference: We don’t just take you to the popular spots; we create personalized, private tours that highlight the history, culture, and beauty of Panama. Choosing us means supporting authentic local experiences that go beyond the ordinary.

👉 Ready to experience Panama with a local touch? Check out our tours!