A Guide to Costa Rican Tipping Etiquette
The atmosphere surrounding the turquoise waters of Rio Celeste and the gateway town of Bijagua is a unique blend of high-end ecotourism and humble agricultural roots. While the “Blue River” attracts global travelers to witness the optical phenomenon of aluminosilicate minerals, the service culture remains grounded in the Pura Vida philosophy—friendly, unhurried, and genuinely hospitable. Unlike the tipping-heavy culture of North America, Costa Rican service is built on a foundation of legal protections for workers, meaning that while gratuity is appreciated, it is rarely demanded. Navigating this region requires a “Golden Middle” approach: being prepared for the technicalities of the rainforest while remaining socially graceful in the town of Bijagua.
“Understanding the difference between a mandatory service charge and a voluntary gesture of thanks allows you to move seamlessly from a high-tech tapir tracking expedition to a rustic roadside soda.”
For many visiting the Overview page of this region, the primary focus is the stunning 30-meter drop of the waterfall. However, cultural confidence in the Northern Highlands comes from knowing how to interact with the people who make these expeditions possible. Whether you are arriving via a scenic drive from Liberia as detailed in our How to Get to Rio Celeste guide or staying in a local lodge to hunt for the elusive Baird’s tapir mentioned in our Wildlife & Nature Guide, understanding the “Propina” system is essential for any ethical traveler.
Dining & Local Flavors: The 10% Law
Restaurants & Sodas
In establishments throughout Bijagua and the surrounding Upala canton, verify if the menu states “Impuestos Incluidos” (Taxes Included). By law (specifically Law 4946), a 10% service charge known as propina is mandated for all sit-down restaurants. This is not a suggestion; it is a legal requirement designed to ensure service staff receive a baseline gratuity. This fee is often pooled among the entire staff, including the kitchen and cleaning crews. When your bill arrives, look for the line item “Servicio 10%.”
- The 10% Rule: Since the 10% is already included, an additional tip is only expected for exceptional service. Adding an extra 5–10% in cash directly to your server is the standard way to show appreciation.
- Small Sodas: In very informal, family-run roadside eateries (Sodas), the 10% charge is sometimes omitted to keep prices low for locals. In these spots, tipping is not expected, but leaving ₡1,000 or rounding up the bill is a highly respected gesture.
- Check your bill: Avoid “double tipping” by confirming if servicio is already calculated. If the menu says “Precios no incluyen IVA” (or “impuestos”), expect both the 13% tax and the 10% service charge to be added at the end.
Dining in the shadows of the Tenorio Volcano is a different experience than the commercial hubs of San José. The pace is slower. If you find yourself at a local spot or a traditional soda after a long day of Hiking & Adventure Activities, remember that the “unhurried” service is part of the local charm, not a sign of neglect. If you are planning a multi-day itinerary that includes the geothermal mud baths of Miravalles, as suggested in our Nearby Attractions guide, you will find these same pricing standards apply across the northern lowlands.
Adventure & Guides: Rewarding Expertise
Tour Guides & Wildlife Spotters
Unlike the restaurant sector, the adventure industry in the Tenorio region does not have a built-in service charge. Many of the naturalists who lead treks into the primary cloud forest are independent contractors or local residents with specialized knowledge of The Science of the Blue Water. Their income is heavily dependent on the tips they receive from guests.
- Group Tours: For a shared hike or a tubing session on the river, $5–$10 USD per person is the benchmark.
- Private Naturalist Guides: If you have hired a specialist to help you Spot a Sloth or use a high-powered telescope for birdwatching, $15–$25 USD per group is the professional standard.
- Boat & Tubing Captains: For activities on the water, $5–$10 USD is appropriate, especially if they have provided safety briefings and gear transport.
In the Tenorio Volcano National Park, the terrain is often muddy and challenging. Guides do more than just point out plants; they navigate the strict digital SINAC ticketing system and time your arrival at the Teñideros to ensure you see the blue water before the afternoon rains, a timing strategy we discuss in the Best Time to Visit guide. A tip here is an acknowledgment of their technical skill in managing both the environment and the crowds.
Transport & Logistics: Navigating the Rural Economy
Essential Logistics (2026)
- Hours: Open daily 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Last entry is strictly at 2:00 PM.
- Tickets: Must be purchased online in advance via the SINAC website. Non-resident adults: ~$13.56 USD ($12 + 13% tax).
- Parking: Private lots available across from the entrance (~₡2,000–₡4,000 CRC / $4–$8 USD, cash only).
- Road Access: The road from Bijagua to the park entrance is fully paved. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for the rainy season but not strictly required.
- Public Transport: No direct bus to the park. Take a bus to Bijagua, then a taxi (~$25 USD) to the entrance.
Shuttles, Drivers & Parking
Logistics in the Northern Highlands often involve private transfers or managing rental cars in public areas. Because of the remote nature of Bijagua, these interactions are frequent and follow specific protocols.
| Service | Suggested Tip (USD/CRC) |
|---|---|
| Private Shuttle Driver | $10 – $20 for long hauls (LIR/SJO to Bijagua) |
| Hotel Porter/Bellhop | ₡1,000 ($2) per bag |
| Housekeeping | ₡1,000 – ₡2,000 per day |
| Cuidacarros (Street Parking) | ₡500 – ₡1,000 (Paid when leaving) |
