Tipping in Bogotá? What You Need to Know Before You Go

Tipping in Bogotá can feel a bit confusing if you’re used to North American or European standards. While it’s not obligatory across the board, it’s absolutely appreciated—and sometimes expected—in certain industries.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the exact tipping expectations in Bogotá’s top service categories, from high-end restaurants and boutique hotels to personal services and tour operators.

The General Rule How Tipping Works in Bogotá

In Colombia, tipping (called “propina”) is not legally required, but it’s often gently built into your experience—especially in Bogotá’s upscale service sectors. Here’s the basic framework:

• In restaurants, a 10% tip is usually suggested and may already appear on your bill as a voluntary service charge (“servicio incluido”).
• You always have the right to accept or reject that charge—but unless the service was poor, most locals and travelers leave it on.
• In other sectors like hospitality, beauty, and private transport, tipping is expected but left to your discretion.

Pro tip: Colombians tend to be polite and discreet about money. Tipping is handled quietly, so don’t expect servers or staff to openly solicit it.

If you’re unsure whether a tip is expected or already included, ask: “¿Está incluida la propina?” (Is the tip included?)

Restaurants and Cafés: Understanding the 10 Percent Rule

This is where tipping culture is clearest.

High-end restaurants and upscale cafés in Bogotá will usually add a voluntary 10% service charge to your bill. It should be listed near the bottom as “servicio sugerido” or “propina sugerida.”

• You’ll be asked politely if you want to include it when paying. Just say “sí, está bien” (yes, that’s fine) if the service was good.
• If you’re dining at an international hotel or luxury establishment, consider leaving a little extra (5–10% more) in cash for exceptional service.

For smaller cafés or bakeries, tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving a few coins is always appreciated.

Card payment tip: If you’re tipping by card, let the server know before they bring the payment terminal. Some systems require them to add the tip manually before processing the charge.

Hotels: How to Tip at Check-in, Housekeeping, and Beyond

Tipping practices in Bogotá’s hotels—especially mid-range to luxury properties—are very similar to international standards, with a few local nuances.

Who to tip and how much:

• Bellhops or porters: COP $5,000–$10,000 (~$1.25–$2.50 USD) per bag, especially if they bring them to your room.
• Housekeeping staff: COP $10,000–$20,000 per day (~$2.50–$5 USD), ideally left on the pillow or desk with a short note (“Gracias”).

Concierge or front desk: Tip based on effort—COP $20,000–$50,000 (~$5–$12 USD) for arranging drivers, restaurant reservations, or special requests.

Most luxury hotels include a service fee in your total bill, but these personal tips go directly to the staff and are always appreciated.

Pro tip: If you’re staying several nights, tip housekeeping daily rather than at the end. Shifts may change, and this ensures the right person receives it.

Private Drivers and Airport Transfers Tipping in the Premium Transport World 

If you’re using private car services, luxury airport pickups, or chauffeur-driven rides, tipping isn’t mandatory—but it’s expected for good service.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Airport transfers: COP $20,000–$40,000 (~$5–$10 USD), depending on service level, number of passengers, and luggage assistance.
• Private drivers for the day: 10–15% of the total fare, or a fixed COP $50,000–$100,000 (~$12–$25 USD) if they’re with you for multiple hours or a full-day itinerary.
• Luxury ride-hailing (Uber Black, Cabify Plus): Round up or tip 10% via the app if the driver helps with bags or provides water, chargers, or extras.

Drivers rarely expect tips, but they often go above and beyond, especially with premium or foreign guests. A generous tip reflects well and builds goodwill, particularly if you’ll be using the same service again.

Tour Guides, Experiences, and Spa Services

Tour guides and excursions

If you’re taking a private or small-group tour (coffee farms, city walking tours, museum visits), tipping is a big part of the experience:

• Private guides: COP $50,000–$100,000 per half-day or full-day tour (~$12–$25 USD)
• Group tours: COP $20,000–$40,000 (~$5–$10 USD) depending on length and depth

Tip more if your guide speaks fluent English, customizes your experience, or offers exclusive insights.

Spas and wellness services

For massage therapists, facialists, and other spa staff:

• Tip 10–15% of the service price
• Leave it in cash at the front desk or give it directly to the professional

At top-tier Bogotá spas, tipping is both common and expected—and considered part of the luxury experience.

Tipping Etiquette When Paying by Card vs. Cash

In Bogotá, cash is still king for tipping, especially for personal services. Many businesses allow you to tip by card, but not all payment systems make it easy.

What to know:

• Tell the server or staff member before the payment is processed if you want to include a tip by card.
• Some POS terminals don’t allow tip entry—especially at independent businesses.
• If in doubt, carry small denominations of Colombian pesos—bills in COP $5,000, $10,000, and $20,000 are ideal.

You can also ask:

“¿Puedo dejar propina con tarjeta?” (Can I leave the tip with the card?)

At hotels, spas, or tours, tipping in local currency is often easier than converting from USD or EUR. U.S. dollars are not typically accepted unless you’ve pre-arranged with a luxury provider.

Tipping for Special Circumstances and VIP Services

If you’re receiving VIP-level care—like a personal shopper, private chef, or high-end concierge—tipping is part of the experience.

Here are some guidelines:

• Private chef or in-villa catering: 10–15% of the total service cost, or a fixed amount per guest.
• Concierge at luxury apartment rentals or extended-stay suites: COP $50,000–$100,000 (~$12–$25 USD) for exceptional service or multiple bookings.
• Hairdressers, nail technicians, personal trainers: 10–15% of the service price, in cash.

When staying at a high-end villa or serviced residence, tipping your housekeeper or staff at the end of your stay is customary—about COP \$20,000–\$40,000 per day, per staff member.

Generosity is remembered here. If you’re planning a return visit or establishing relationships with service providers, these tips help maintain loyalty and exceptional service.

When in Bogotá, Do As Locals Do

Tipping in Bogotá isn’t just about following a rule—it’s about respecting the people who make your experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. From fine dining to guided tours, thoughtful tipping shows appreciation and often leads to better service and warm connections.

Whether helping you figure out the tipping landscape or setting you up with an unforgettable adventure, Cielo Travel has your back. Let us plan everything from safe transportation to top-notch hotels and dining, and answer all your questions along the way.