If you’re preparing to visit Peru for the first time ever with MEDLIFE, you might be curious about Peru greetings and local customs. Understanding how to interact respectfully with both the communities you’ll be serving and the locals you’ll meet while exploring can enhance your experience. We’ve created a guide to help you navigate how Peruvians greet each other and how to embrace local etiquette.
How Do Peruvians Greet Each Other?
In Peru, greetings are a vital part of positive social interactions and vary based on the setting and relationship between individuals. Peru greetings often include a warm and friendly approach, reflecting the country’s rich cultural values surrounding community and friendship.
In most cases, when meeting someone for the first time or in formal settings, a handshake is the standard form of greeting. Ensure your handshake is firm but not overpowering, and eye contact is always a good idea!
Western cultures typically interact less physically with one another. However, in Peru, a common greeting is a single kiss on the right cheek for friends and close acquaintances. This gesture is generally accepted among women and between women and men. However, men may not always exchange kisses with each other; a handshake is often preferred. Of course, this all depends on the specific relationships and context of your interactions.
How to Say Hello in Peru
When you want to initiate conversation, knowing how to say hello in Peru will help you set a positive and friendly tone. A lot of people in Peru speak English. However, it’s always a good idea to have some conversational Spanish in your back pocket just in case you encounter someone who doesn’t. The most common and polite way to greet someone is by saying “Hola” (Hello). For a more formal approach, you can use “Buenos días” (Good morning), “Buenas tardes” (Good afternoon), or “Buenas noches” (Good evening), depending on the time of day. “¿Cómo estás?” (how are you? – informal) or “¿Cómo está usted?” (how are you? – formal), and “Mucho Gusto” (nice to meet you) are all accepted greetings.
In informal settings or among friends, “¿Qué tal?” (What’s up?), “¡Hola, amigo/a!” (Hello friend!), and “¡Qué gusto verte!” (Nice to see you!) are also widely used. Adopting these greetings will help you connect with locals and show your respect for their customs.
Customs and Etiquette for SLT Volunteers
When interacting with the people you’ll be assisting in MEDLIFE’s mobile clinics, maintaining a respectful demeanor is crucial. Always address individuals formally unless invited to do otherwise. It’s polite to use titles such as “Señor” or “Señora” followed by the person’s last name. This demonstrates respect and acknowledges their position in the community. For more in-depth tips for etiquette within volunteer projects, check out this blog.
During your free time exploring Peru, remember that the same principles of politeness apply. If you’re visiting homes or participating in local events, it’s customary to greet your hosts warmly and express gratitude for their hospitality. You may also be offered food or drink, which is a sign of goodwill; it’s polite to accept the offer, even if just a small portion.
Embracing Local Culture
Understanding Peru greetings and customs enriches your travel experience and fosters positive interactions with locals. By showing respect and willingness to adapt to local practices, you’ll build meaningful connections and enhance your impact as a volunteer.
As you embark on your SLT experience in Peru, keep these guidelines in mind to navigate social interactions smoothly and immerse yourself fully in Peruvian culture. Your preparation and respect for local customs will be greatly appreciated and make your volunteering experience more rewarding.
To learn how you can join a MEDLIFE Service Learning Trip in Peru or one of our many other destinations, fill out the interest form below or download our free brochure.