Tips & Tipping
Brazil
Tipping summary
A 10% service charge is typically included in restaurant bills. Additional tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service.
Cards vs. Cash
Cards are widely accepted in cities, including at many street vendors who take Pix (Brazil's instant payment system). Cash is still important for smaller vendors, buses, and rural areas. Carry reais for everyday use.
Currency Converter
By situation
Restaurants
10%
Most restaurants add a 10% service charge (gorjeta or taxa de servico) to the bill automatically. You can decline it if service was poor, but paying it is the strong social norm. Extra beyond 10% is not expected.
Taxis & rideshares
Round up
Brazilians rarely tip taxi or Uber drivers. Rounding up to the nearest real is a friendly gesture but not expected.
Hotel staff
R$5-10 per bag or service
Tip bellhops R$5-10 per bag. A small tip for housekeeping (R$5-10 per day) is appreciated, especially at nicer hotels.
Bars & street food
Optional
Tipping at bars and street food vendors is not customary. If a service charge appears on the bar tab, it covers the tip.
Tour guides
R$20-50 per day
For private tour guides, R$30-50 per day is generous. For group tours, R$20-30 per person per day is thoughtful.
Gas station attendants
R$2-5
Brazil has full-service gas stations. A small tip to the attendant who pumps gas, cleans your windshield, and checks your tires is standard practice.