13 Things Tourists Should Never Do in Peru, Ever

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13 Things Tourists Should Never Do in Peru, Ever

  1. Don't be afraid to share beer

    In Peru, they mostly – almost exclusively – serve beer in large bottles that are meant to be shared with other people. While you can certainly consume one of those all by yourself, it’s always nice to drink a beer with a friend.

  2. Don't be timid

    If you’re at, say, a little corner store and want service, you have to demand it. The same goes if you’re at a restaurant; you’ll most likely have to get the waiter’s attention.

  3. Don't expect lines

    Lines are almost non-existent unless you’re in a bank. Don’t be surprised if you’re in what you think is a line, and someone walks right past you to the front.

  4. Don't expect 100% punctuality

    Local people view time differently. However, touristic Industry in Cusco is on Time always, dont let your group waiting for you.

  5. Don't expect everything to be spicy

    Peru is known for its spicy ceviche and rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers), but don’t expect everything else to be like that. Even in the case of the ceviche, if you don’t ask for it to be spicy, it won’t be.

  6. Don't be afraid to use “ya”

    Peruvians use the word “ya” for just about every conceivable thing. The word is also used in the same way as “yeah” is used in English. Don’t be afraid to use it.

  7. Don't be offended if you are asked your marital status

    Peruvians will always ask if you are married or have children, even if they only just met you. Personal questions are just part of a conversation.

  8. Don't walk around with big bills

    This isn’t because you might be robbed, but because having big bills on you, such as 100 soles, is just as good as having nothing. You need to carry small bill if you want a prompt atention.

  9. Don't lug around a load of souvenirs

    A lot of people make the mistake of getting all their shopping done while in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, lugging their Andean prints around with them for the rest of their trip around Peru.

  10. Don't assume coca is bad

    Coca is widely used throughout the Andean region of Peru, and has been since the Incas. It was used during Inca ceremonies and is still used today to fight off altitude sickness and hunger.

  11. Don't dissmiss Inca Cola

    This is the national soft drink of Peru and is consumed everywhere by everyone. While the taste is like bubble gum – don’t tell your Peruvian friend that. They like it, and probably at the end you will love it.

  12. Don't expect everyone to speak English

    While the main tourist locations in Peru will most likely have staff who speak English, don’t expect that to be the case everywhere. Learn some Spanish phrases before you come to Peru, because you’ll need them.

  13. Don't throw toilet paper in the toilet

    You’ll find the signs in every bathroom reminding you not to throw toilet paper into the toilets. It clogs them up and the sewage systems can’t handle it.