Puerto Maldonado Amazon Basin, Peru Travel Guide
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.
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, featuring a lot of eco-lodges limiting or excluding it for immersion.
Most lodge guides speak excellent English. In Puerto Maldonado town, English is less common, especially outside tourist-oriented businesses.
Basic Spanish phrases are helpful for daily interactions and communication.
Many lodges intentionally limit or exclude Wi-Fi. This encourages clients to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. Expect limited connectivity away from town.
Knowing local operating times makes planning smoother.
Generally open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, with many smaller shops closing for a moderateday break.
Lunch service typically runs from 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Dinner service is from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM.
Open early morning (around 6:00 AM) until early afternoon (around 2:00 PM-3:00 PM).
Banks operate typical business hours. Atms are easy to find in Puerto Maldonado town.
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.
Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access. If flights encounter delays or cancellations, Compensair can help with compensation claims.
Experience the local cultures respectfully and mindfully.
A polite "Hola" or "Good day/tardes/noches" (Hello/afternoon/evening) is customary when entering a shop or addressing someone. Handshakes are common. Women often greet with a light kiss on one cheek.
Dress casually but modestly in town. Wear practical, long-sleeved clothing for protection from sun and insects in the dense forest. When visiting communities, dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
It is polite to wait until everyone is served before starting to have a meal, especially in group settings. For photos, a simple "¿Puedo tomar una foto?" (May I take a photo?) usually meets expectations.
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.
Follow your escort's guidance on cultural etiquette. They understand local norms. Exercise discretion regarding gender and FOR the lgbtq+ community matters in public spaces.
