A practical guide to tipping in Merida: When to tip and how much?, A Beginner’s Guide to Tipping in Yucatán
I do still get people who are visiting Mérida and Yucatán asking me what sort of tipping is required, desired or expected, if any. It’s always a good idea not to stray too far from what the locals do, so that their patronage isn’t disfavored, but if your circumstances allow it, try to tip a little more generously. Note: Germans and other European citizens are known for their tipping prowess because in their country, this is not expected or done. Still, it is interesting that often these folks know everything about their destination but somehow manage to completely overlook local tipping practices.
There are tips that are expected and tips that are optional. Below are a few. Keep in mind that this is a touchy subject for some, as there are those who think we should keep tipping to a minimum and others who enjoy splashing around massive tips because, in their words, it’s just a few bucks!
Tipping gas station attendants in México
The guy filling up your tank at the station will appreciate a tip. Giving him a $5- or $10-peso coin is perfectly acceptable if he at a minimum pumps your gas and says buenos días; if he cleans (I use the term generously as the results are never squeaky-clean) your windshield and back window, give him $15-20 pesos.
Tipping grocery baggers in México
Locals will tip coins, small amounts ranging from $5 to $10 pesos. If you can afford it, make your bagger’s day and slip them a $20 peso bill. These folks are not on a salary and those tips are a lifeline for older people doing the bagging, who generally are without any sort of social assistance of any value. Your contribution makes a big difference, not only financially but also for their self-esteem as older folks in urban areas have difficulty getting a regular job and providing for themselves or a loved one.
Tipping in restaurants and bars in México
For many locals, 10% seems to be an accepted tip. I suggest 15% as a rule; more if the service has been outstanding. At coffee shops when you are ordering a coffee for take out, a few coins dropped in the omnipresent tip jar is fine if you feel like it. Cash tips at dining establishments are probably preferred as then the money goes to where it should and unscrupulous management can’t easily demand “their” cut.
Tipping tour guides in México
A good private tour of Chichén Itza, Uxmal, or Dzibilchaltún (if and when it ever re-opens) will expect a tip on top of whatever fee is being charged. Anywhere between $200 and $500 pesos is considered a good tip. If the tour was boring, dry, or maybe rushed, the tip should be on the lower end. On a shared tour, a $100- or $200-peso bill will suffice, if you enjoyed it. Remember, it is not obligatory!
Tipping drivers in México
Your time spent with the driver and what he or she did during the drive to make it more pleasant for you will determine any tip. For a full day out, with stops here and there, maybe help with groceries or moving things around, easily warrants a tip between $200 and $300 pesos, especially if he is working for a company rather than being an independent. Locals do not usually tip taxi or rideshare drivers on short trips, unless there’s luggage involved; sometimes, not even then.
Tipping at weddings (and other catered events) in México
At a wedding or other large social engagement, you will be seated with others and a waiter will be assigned to your table. He will bring you drinks, clear dishes, bring sweets from the dessert display, and more. Remember that they will be there until the party is over, and that could be all night. When you get up to leave, look them in the eye and thank them while discretely slipping them a $200-peso bill.
There are more situations where you might want to leave a tip, as well as situations where you might feel “invited” to do so; don’t be afraid to ask a local (someone unrelated to the situation for added objectivity); they’ll surely know the going rate and when it’s appropriate and not. If opinions vary, form your own opinion and err on the generous side—always within your own means and in accordance with the service you received.
Photography by Sara Alba, Coox Mayab, Carlos Guzmán and Luna Barrera for its use in Yucatán Today.
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 445, in January 2025.
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