Local Customs & Etiquette in Lima, Peru

1. Greeting Customs

Peruvians often greet each other with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Foreigners can shake hands as an alternative.

Cultural Norm: Understanding this custom shows respect for local culture.
Social Etiquette: Demonstrating friendliness and openness in greetings.
Avoiding Misunderstandings: Knowing when to use a handshake instead of a hug helps avoid confusion.

In Lima, it's common to share dishes in a group. Always wait for everyone to be served before starting.

Sharing Food: Understanding this custom promotes social bonding.
Patience: Waiting for everyone to be served shows consideration.
Table Manners: Good table manners are appreciated, but don't worry too much if you make a mistake.

A service charge is usually included in the bill at restaurants, but tipping is still appreciated for excellent service.

Inclusive Service Charge: Understanding this can help avoid confusion when deciding whether to tip.
Appreciation of Good Service: Tipping shows your satisfaction with the service provided.
Rounding Up: Rounding up the amount to the nearest sol (Peruvian currency) is a common practice.

Visitors should dress modestly when entering churches in Lima. Shoulders and knees should be covered.

Respect for Religious Customs: Dressing modestly shows respect for the sanctity of religious sites.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding local customs helps promote cultural understanding.
Preparedness: Having appropriate clothing for churches ensures you can enter without issue.

It's common to bargain for prices in markets in Lima. Start by offering a lower price and be prepared to negotiate.

Negotiation Skills: Having good negotiation skills can help get a better deal.
Starting Price: Knowing what to offer as a starting price is important.
Politeness and Patience: Being polite and patient during negotiations can lead to a successful purchase.

On Lima buses, it's customary to give up your seat for elderly or pregnant women. Standing is the norm during busy hours.

Respect for Elders: Giving up your seat shows respect for elders and pregnant women.
Adapting to Crowds: Being prepared to stand during busy hours can make your journey more comfortable.
Public Transport Etiquette: Following local bus etiquette helps you blend in with the locals.

Taxi drivers in Lima might not always use a meter. Agree on a price before starting your journey.

Price Negotiation: Negotiating the price before starting your journey can help avoid overcharging.
Safe Travel: Using reputable taxi services or apps like Uber ensures a safe travel experience.
Knowledge of the City: Taking a taxi with a local driver can provide valuable insights into Lima.

Public drinking is generally accepted and common in Lima's parks. However, be mindful of local laws and avoid causing disturbances.

Local Customs: Understanding this custom can help you blend in with the locals.
Respect for Laws: Always respect local laws and avoid causing disturbances to maintain a peaceful environment.
Moderation: Drinking in moderation helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

In Lima, 'Peruvian time' (Tiempo Peruano) means schedules are often relaxed. Be patient and flexible.

Flexibility: Being flexible can help manage expectations and ensure a smooth experience.
Patience: Having patience helps you adapt to the relaxed schedule of 'Peruvian time'.
Cultural Awareness: Understanding this custom promotes cultural awareness and understanding.

During festivals in Lima, it's common to wear traditional Peruvian clothing. Joining in local dances is also appreciated.

Respect for Tradition: Wearing traditional clothing shows respect for the local culture.
Participation: Joining in local dances helps you immerse yourself in the cultural experience.
Preparation: Bringing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for dancing can make your festival experience more enjoyable.

Street food in Lima can be delicious but ensure it's hot and fresh. Avoid street food if it looks or smells off.

Food Safety: Ensuring the street food is hot and fresh reduces the risk of food-borne illnesses.
Taste and Experience: Trying local street food can provide a unique culinary experience.
Common Sense: Trusting your instincts and avoiding food that looks or smells off helps ensure a safe experience.

In Lima, personal space is considered less important than in some other countries. Be prepared for closer interactions.

Cultural Differences: Understanding these differences helps promote cultural understanding.
Comfort Zone: Being prepared for closer interactions can help you manage your comfort zone.
Respectful Interactions: Maintaining respectful and friendly interactions helps build strong relationships.

Avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public or with locals, especially during election periods.

Respect for Local Sensitivity: Respecting local sensitivities helps ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Politeness: Being polite and avoiding sensitive topics can help you maintain friendly relationships with locals.
Avoidance of Conflicts: Avoiding political discussions helps prevent unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings.

In business meetings in Lima, punctuality is appreciated. Dress conservatively and be prepared to discuss family and personal matters.

Professionalism: Demonstrating professionalism helps build trust in business relationships.
Respect for Personal Matters: Showing interest in personal matters helps build rapport with your business partners.
Punctuality: Being punctual shows respect for the other party's time and commitment.

In Lima, it's customary to show great respect for elders. Address them with titles of respect such as 'tío' (uncle) or 'tía' (aunt).

Cultural Respect: Showing cultural respect helps promote understanding and goodwill.
Politeness: Being polite helps you build friendly relationships with locals.
Avoidance of Offense: Addressing elders with respect can help avoid offense and maintain a peaceful environment.