MileHacker Logo
Sustainable Travel in Callao

Local SIM Cards

Major providers include Claro, Movistar, Entel, Bitel. Purchase at airport or official stores. Passport needed for registration. Airalo eSIMs also offer connectivity.

Internet & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, cafes. Mobile data through a local SIM card also supplies reliable internet. Solis Wi-Fi devices are another option.

Postal Services

Serpost is Peru's national postal service. Offices available in Callao and Lima. Delivery times for overseas mail vary.

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

Shops generally operate from 9 AM/10 AM to 8 IN the evening/9 PM, Monday to Saturday. Restaurants feature lunch service by MIDDAY - 3 PM and dinner from 7 PM - 23:00.

Business Types

  • Shops: Shorter Sunday hours or may close entirely.
  • Restaurants: Tourist areas may have continuous service.
  • Government: Typically Monday to Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM.
  • Smaller Shops: May close for a siesta (lunch break).

Banking & ATMs

Banks generally operate Monday to Friday, 9 AM - 6 PM; Saturday, 9 AM - 1 PM. ATMs are widely available 24/7 in urban areas.

Safety & Access

  • Locations: Use ATMs inside bank branches or well-lit, secure spots.
  • Availability: 24/7 in urban centers, shopping malls.
  • Weekends: Limited Saturday hours for bank branches.
  • Effect Of holidays: Banks close on bank holidays.

Holidays & Seasonal Impact

Peru observes numerous national public holidays. During these times, banks, government offices, and some businesses may close or operate with reduced hours.

Public Holidays

  • New Year's Day (January 1ST)
  • Easter Week (March/April)
  • Labour Day (May 1ST)
  • Independence Day (July 28-29)
  • Christmas (Christmas DAY)

Impact on Services

During major holidays, transportation can become more crowded. Some smaller businesses may have reduced hours or close for a few days.

Holiday Adjustments

  • Transportation: Expect higher passenger volumes.
  • Reduced Hours: Smaller businesses may alter schedules.
  • Closures: Certain establishments may close for holidays.
  • No Widespread Closures: Callao does not experience widespread seasonal closures.

Planning Resources

Translation Resources

Google Translate app (downloadable packs) is valuable. Small Spanish phrasebooks assist. Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Start Learning Spanish

Important Phrases

Hola (Hello), Gracias (Thank you), Por favor (Please), ¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much?), No entiendo (I do not understand), Ayuda (Help).

Tip: Plan Around Holidays

Plan accordingly if your visit coincides with major holidays to manage expectations for business operations.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greetings & Dress

Handshakes are common between men. Women usually greet with a kiss on one cheek. Relaxed attire is typical.

Social Interactions

  • Verbal Greetings: "Good morning/tardes/noches" are polite.
  • Religious Sites: Modest dress (shoulders, knees covered) appreciated.
  • Upscale Settings: Smart casual attire in Lima's clubs.
  • General: Peruvian society is generally conservative.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Wait to be seated in most mid-range to upscale restaurants. Keep hands visible on the table. Tipping 5-10% is appreciated for good service.

Mealtime Customs

  • Seating: Await the host's direction in many venues.
  • Table Presence: Keep hands visible on the table, not in your lap.
  • Gratuity: 5-10% for good service.
  • Local Pace: Punctuality can be relaxed ("la hora peruana").

Photography & Sensitive Topics

Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially children, in markets or rural areas. Be discreet with your camera. Respect requests not to be photographed.

Photography Ethics

A simple "Permiso para una foto?" (May I take a photo?) works well. Avoid photographing military or government buildings.

Discussions to Avoid

Avoid discussing Peruvian politics, past conflicts, or social issues unless with trusted local friends.

Respectful Conduct

Respect religious beliefs and practices. Do not purchase items made from endangered species or archaeological artifacts.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Peru is generally conservative. While Lima and Callao are more open, public displays of affection by LGBTQ+ couples may attract stares. Legal protections are limited. Exercise discretion and awareness of local attitudes.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility challenges may find infrastructure in Callao difficult.

Mobility Challenges

Infrastructure in Callao, like much of Peru, is generally not well-adapted for travelers with mobility challenges. Sidewalks can be uneven, narrow, or obstructed.

Urban Terrain

  • Sidewalks That are not level: Often narrow or obstructed, posing challenges.
  • Cobblestone Streets: In historic areas, add to difficulties.
  • Limited Ramps: Accessibility features are rare.
  • Public Transport: Largely inaccessible for wheelchair users.

Accessible Facilities

Modern shopping shopping malls and some newer, upscale hotels may offer better availability for people with ramps and elevators.

Available Services

  • Up-to-date Malls: Better is accompanied by ramps and elevators.
  • Upscale Hotels: Often have ramps and elevators.
  • Private Transport: Best option for getting around the city.
  • Pre-arranged Vans: With ramps, these are a possible solution.

Resources for Impairments

Specific services for travelers with disabilities are limited.

Travel Companions

It is a good idea for visitors with these needs to travel with a companion.

Consult Specialists

Consult specialized travel agencies focusing on accessible travel in South America.

Hotel Inquiries

Directly contact hotels to inquire about their specific accessibility features.

Communication Aids

Overcoming language barriers in not as touristy areas is simpler with readily available tools.

Tools for Dialogue

  • Small Notebook: Carry a notebook and pen for written communication.
  • Translation Apps: Use a translation app on your phone.
  • Offline Language Packs: Download Spanish downloadable packs for Google Translate.
  • Gesture: Non-verbal communication can assist in basic interactions.

Airport Services & Advice

For unforeseen flight disruptions and enhanced airport experiences, helpful services exist.

Flight Compensation

For unforeseen flight disruptions, Compensair assists with claims.

Lounge Access

Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access, offering comfort before flights.

Travel Assistance

It is advisable to pre-arrange support for travel with specific needs.

Important Note: Prepare for Challenges

Infrastructure limitations for mobility challenges are common in Callao. Planning ahead and arranging specialized transport is highly recommended.

Tip: Communicate Effectively

Do not hesitate to use simple Spanish phrases. Locals appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation is not perfect.