Etiquette

Peruvians invariably exchange a buenos días or good morning, a buenas tardes or good afternoon, or a buenas noches or good evening. Women and men greet each other with a single kiss on the right cheek, though highland Indians generally just offer a hand—sometimes just a wrist if they have been working.

The title señora is reserved for older or married women with children and can be quite insulting if addressed to a younger girl. Señorita is for younger, usually unmarried women. Señor is used to address men, and don or doña is used for elder men or women as a sign of respect.

Machismo in rural areas especially is very much a part of Peruvian culture. Men will often direct dinner conversation only toward other men. Women can handle this situation by directing conversation at both the men and women alike at the table.

Peruvians typically dress nicely and conservatively, especially when dealing with official business or entering a church. Women in these cases should consider wearing pants or a skirt that is longer than knee length, and men should avoid shorts or casual T-shirts. Despite that, fashion in Lima [1] and Amazon [2] towns is more relaxed. You are likely to see men in shorts and women in shorts or short skirts. You should feel comfortable doing the same. Away from link Lima or the jungle, shorts can be worn when participating in an athletic activity that requires them: trekking, beach volleyball, or even running. Foreigners will call less attention to themselves if they wear generally inconspicuous clothing.