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Communication

Communication

Amazon Basin, Peru

Local SIM Cards

Claro, Movistar, and Entel are the main mobile carriers in Peru. SIM cards can be purchased at Lima Airport or official stores in Puerto Maldonado town. A passport is a registration requirement.

Mobile Options

  • Prepaid data plans are affordable.
  • Coverage is good in Puerto Maldonado town.
  • Connectivity drops significantly in the jungle.

Internet Access

Hotels and some restaurants in Puerto Maldonado offer Wi-Fi. Internet cafes ("cabinas de internet") are also available for public use. Lodge Wi-Fi varies, with many eco-lodges limiting or excluding it for immersion.

Wi-Fi Availability

  • Wi-Fi in town (hotels, restaurants).
  • Internet cafes are available.
  • Lodge Wi-Fi is often limited or absent.

Translation Resources

Most lodge guides speak excellent English. In Puerto Maldonado town, English is less common, especially outside tourist-oriented businesses.

Language Aids

Important Phrases Spanish

Basic Spanish phrases are helpful for daily interactions and communication.

Greetings

  • Hola (OH-lah) - Hello
  • Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs) - Thank you
  • Por favor (por fah-VOR) - Please

More Helpful Phrases

General Inquiries

  • Sí / No (see / noh) - Yes / No
  • ¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWAN-toh KWES-tah?) - How much does it cost?
  • ¿Dónde está...? (DOHN-day es-TAH...?) - Where is...?
  • Agua (AH-gwah) - Water

Addressing Challenges

  • ¿Habla inglés? (AH-blah een-GLAYS?) - Do you speak English?
  • No entiendo (noh en-TYEN-doh) - I don't understand
  • Ayúdame (ah-YOO-dah-may) - Help me
  • Postal services (Serpost is national, international mail can be slow).

Digital Disconnect

Many lodges intentionally limit or exclude Wi-Fi. This encourages guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. Expect limited connectivity away from town.

Business Hours & Schedules

Knowing local operating times makes planning smoother.

Shops

Generally open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, with many smaller shops closing for a midday break.

Restaurants

Lunch service typically runs from 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Dinner service is from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM.

Markets

Open early morning (around 6:00 AM) until early afternoon (around 2:00 PM-3:00 PM).

Banking & ATMs

Banks operate typical business hours. ATMs are widely available in Puerto Maldonado town.

Financial Access

  • Banks: Typically Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
  • ATMs: Available 24/7 in Puerto Maldonado.
  • Look for reputable bank ATMs like BCP, BBVA, or Scotiabank.

Seasonal Variances

During the wet season (low season), some smaller tour operators or businesses might operate on reduced schedules or temporarily close due to fewer tourist numbers.

Travel Season Tip

  • Wet season (low season) sees reduced schedules.
  • Fewer tourists around.
  • Lodges generally stay open year-round.

Public Holidays

National Holidays

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1)
  • Holy Week (March/April, varies)
  • Labor Day (May 1)

More Holidays

  • Independence Day (July 28-29)
  • All Saints' Day (Nov 1)
  • Christmas (Dec 25)

Airport Services

Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access. If flights encounter delays or cancellations, Compensair can assist with compensation claims.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Engage with local cultures respectfully and mindfully.

Greeting Customs

A polite "Hola" or "Buenos días/tardes/noches" (Good morning/afternoon/evening) is customary when entering a shop or addressing someone. Handshakes are common. Women often greet with a light kiss on one cheek.

Polite Welcomes

  • Use common Spanish greetings.
  • Handshakes are standard.
  • Kiss on one cheek for women.

Appropriate Attire

Dress casually but modestly in town. Wear practical, long-sleeved clothing for protection from sun and insects in the jungle. When visiting communities, dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.

Dressing Guide

  • Town: Casual, modest.
  • Jungle: Long sleeves, practical.
  • Communities: Shoulders/knees covered.

Dining & Photography

It is polite to wait until everyone is served before starting to eat, especially in group settings. For photos, a simple "¿Puedo tomar una foto?" (May I take a photo?) usually meets expectations.

Dining & Photo Tips

  • Wait for all diners.
  • Ask permission for photos.
  • Respect "no photography" signs.

Sensitive Topics & Taboos

Avoid discussing sensitive political issues or making negative comparisons between Peru and your home country. Do not openly criticize local customs or beliefs. Drug use is illegal and penalties are severe.

Cultural Do Nots

  • Avoid political criticism.
  • Do not critique local customs.
  • Drug use is illegal and strictly penalized.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Challenges

  • Puerto Maldonado's infrastructure is limited.
  • Sidewalks are often uneven, lack ramps.
  • The jungle environment presents significant barriers.

Services & Resources

  • Services for visual or hearing impairments are limited.
  • No specialized public services in Braille or sign language.
  • Rely on personal assistance or specialized tour operators.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Considerations

  • Gender roles are relatively traditional, especially outside main cities.
  • Solo female travelers should exercise normal precautions.
  • Be aware of local norms in all interactions.

LGBTQ+ Considerations

  • Peru is generally conservative.
  • Same-sex relationships are legal.
  • Public displays of affection may attract attention in smaller towns. Exercise discretion.

Respectful Travel

Follow your guide's advice on cultural etiquette. They understand local norms. Exercise discretion regarding gender and LGBTQ+ matters in public spaces.