Tipping Etiquette

In Panama, tipping is not compulsory but is good etiquette and supplements the low wages of the employee. It’s normal to tip for good service in restaurants, bars, and hotels in Panama - especially in touristy or business areas.

• At most hotels in Panama, a 10% service charge is usually already figured into the overall tab. However, tipping individual staff directly is sometimes appropriate. An appropriate tip for hotel porters or bellboys is about $1 - $2 per bag. However, they should only expect tips in more expensive hotels. An appropriate tip for housekeeping would also be about $1 - $2 per day.
• For tour guides, a tip of $10 per day is appropriate. The best option is to factor in the total cost of the tour, the duration of the tour, and the quality of service you receive.
• At restaurants in Panama, gratuity is not usually included in the final bill. Therefore, it is customary to tip 10%. Tipping is based on the reward of good service rather than an obligation.
• In Panama, it is not customary to tip taxi drivers. However, rounding up taxi fares is a great way of showing your appreciation for the driver.