Communication Essentials: Arequipa

Mobile Connectivity

Major providers like Claro, Movistar, and Bitel offer good coverage in Arequipa and decent coverage in Colca Canyon. Bring your passport for SIM card registration.

SIM Card Information

Prepaid SIM cards are inexpensive (S/10-20).
Data packages are affordable (e.g., 5GB for S/30-50).
Local SIM for mobile data offers reliable connection outside Wi-Fi zones.

Internet & Wi-Fi Access

Wi-Fi is widely available and generally reliable in hotels, hostels, cafes, and restaurants. Many offer free Wi-Fi for customers.

Staying Connected

Wi-Fi in tourist establishments is common.
Limited public Wi-Fi hotspots, connection quality varies.
Consider a NordVPN subscription for secure public Wi-Fi.

Language Considerations

Spanish is the official language. English is spoken by staff in most tourist-oriented hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies.

Overcoming Barriers

Outside tourist areas, English proficiency is limited.
Download offline Spanish packs for Google Translate.
A basic Spanish phrasebook is useful.

Learning & Connectivity Tools

For language immersion, consider online platforms. Portable Wi-Fi devices offer reliable internet access on the go.

Recommended Aids

Solis Wi-Fi offers portable Wi-Fi for reliable internet.
Airalo for convenient eSIMs.
Rosetta Stone for language learning before your trip.

Essential Spanish Phrases

General Greetings

Hola: Hello (OH-lah)
Gracias: Thank you (GRAH-see-as)
Por favor: Please (por fah-VOHR)
Sí / No: Yes / No (see / noh)

Practical Inquiries

¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does it cost? (KWAN-toh KWES-tah)
¿Dónde está...?: Where is...? (DOHN-day es-TAH)
La cuenta, por favor: The bill, please (lah KWEN-tah, por fah-VOHR)
Agua: Water (AH-gwah)

Quick Tip: Local Communication

A basic understanding of Spanish phrases greatly enhances your travel experience and interactions with locals outside of tourist centers.

Business Hours & Services

Familiarize yourself with typical operating hours for businesses and services in Arequipa.

Bank Hours

Typically Monday-Friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. ATMs are widely available in the city center.

Shop Hours

Generally Monday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Smaller shops may close for a siesta (lunch break) from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM.

Restaurant Hours

Lunch: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Dinner: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM (many open later, especially on weekends). Picanterías mainly open only for lunch.

Museums & Attractions

Generally Tuesday-Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (some vary). Many are closed on Mondays. Santa Catalina Monastery has extended evening hours on some days.

Access & Planning

Confirm specific hours for each attraction.
Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access.
Compensair for flight compensation.

Public & Seasonal Closures

Peru observes numerous public holidays, during which banks, government offices, and some businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours.

Dates to Note

Independence Day (July 28-29) is a major national celebration.
Anniversary of Arequipa (August 15) is a significant local holiday.
Some businesses reduce hours during the lowest rainy season (Jan-Feb).

Banking & ATMs

ATM Locations

ATMs are widely available in the city center.
Look for ATMs at banks like BCP, BBVA, Scotiabank, Interbank.
Major shopping centers also have ATM access.

Withdrawal Fees

Be aware of potential withdrawal fees from home bank.
Local ATM fees may also apply.
Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees.

Important Timing

Planning around public holidays is important, as many services may be closed or operate on reduced hours. Always confirm opening times.

Etiquette & Culture

Greeting Customs

Formal greetings like 'Buenos días' are common. 'Hola' for casual interactions. Handshakes are common for initial introductions.

Interaction Notes

Women often greet each other with a single kiss on the right cheek.
Do not initiate cheek kiss unless offered.
Attempting a few Spanish phrases is always appreciated.

Attire for Settings

Casual, comfortable clothing is generally suitable for city exploration. Modesty is appreciated in religious sites.

Dress Code

Shoulders and knees should be covered in churches and monasteries.
Casual for most local eateries; smart casual for upscale restaurants.
Wear appropriate outdoor gear for hiking (refer to section 3.1).

Dining & Tipping

It is polite to wait until everyone at your table is served before eating. Keep your hands visible above the table.

Customary Practices

Refer to section 7.1 and 2.3 for detailed dining etiquette.
See section 2.3 for specific tipping guidelines.
For good service, tipping is customary.

Photography & Sensitive Topics

Respect a 'no' if someone declines being photographed. Some museums or religious sites prohibit photography or flash photography.

Guidelines

Respect all signage regarding photography restrictions.
Exercise caution when discussing Peruvian politics with strangers.
Coca leaves are common for altitude sickness; purchasing large quantities for export is illegal.

Social Dynamics

Gender Norms

Peruvian society is generally conservative.
Public displays of affection are common for heterosexual couples.
Women generally face few unique safety concerns beyond general travel advice.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Arequipa is relatively tolerant, especially in tourist areas.
Public displays of affection might receive stares.
Overt discrimination or aggression is rare in tourist zones.

Accessibility

Infrastructure Challenges

Historic center's cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.
Many stairs in colonial buildings.
Public transportation (buses) is not accessible.

Limited Services

Some newer hotels may offer accessible rooms.
Limited specialized services for visual or hearing impairments.
Information signage is generally in Spanish only.

Mobility Note

Arequipa's historic charm can present challenges for travelers with mobility needs. Many historic sites are not easily accessible.

Health & Safety Tips

Prioritize your well-being with these essential health and safety guidelines for Arequipa.

Altitude Acclimatization

Arequipa is at 2,335 meters (7,661 ft). Take it easy on arrival, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy meals or alcohol for the first day.

Symptoms & Remedies

Headache, nausea, dizziness.
Drink coca tea.
Consider Diamox (consult doctor).

Food & Water Safety

Drink only bottled water. Be cautious with street food; choose busy vendors with fresh ingredients.

Dietary Advice

Peel fruits.
Stick to cooked foods.
Avoid ice from unknown sources.

Personal Safety

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Precautions

Use registered taxis.
Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Limit displays of wealth.

Emergency Contacts

Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers before your trip. Always have important documents accessible.

Numbers

Police: 105
Tourist Police: +51 54 201125
Ambulance: 106

Smart Travel Practices

Documentation:Keep copies of passport, visa, and tickets.

Travel Insurance:Confirm coverage for your trip.

Health Insurance:Confirm international health insurance.

Local Laws:Respect local laws and regulations.

Emergency Contacts:Share itinerary with someone at home.

First Aid Kit:Carry basic medical supplies.

Communication Essentials