For Terravelers exploring Ecuador, Galápagos, Peru, Chile, Colombia, and Costa Rica
Traveling across South America is more than landscapes and adventures — it’s about connecting with people. Each country has its own rhythm, unspoken rules, and small gestures that open doors. This cheat sheet gives you quick, practical insights into local etiquette so you can blend in, show respect, and enjoy authentic encounters.
Greetings
A handshake is standard; friends greet with a light cheek kiss (right side).
In rural areas, a simple “¡Buenos días!” goes a long way.
Table manners
Keep both hands visible (rest wrists, not elbows, on the table).
Don’t begin eating before the host says “¡Buen provecho!”.
Social cues
Family is central; expect long, warm conversations.
Time is flexible — punctuality is appreciated but not rigid.
Galápagos twist
Dress modestly in town (shorts/swimwear only at beaches).
Respect wildlife distances — locals are proud of conservation rules.
Greetings
Handshake for men; kiss on the cheek for women.
A polite “Mucho gusto” (pleased to meet you) is appreciated.
Dining etiquette
Don’t waste food; Peruvians take pride in their cuisine.
When sharing dishes, wait until the host invites you to serve.
Social cues
Personal space is smaller than in many Western cultures.
Bargaining is common in markets, but stay friendly.
Andean respect
Indigenous communities value humility — avoid flashy displays.
Ask before taking photos of people, especially in traditional dress.
Greetings
A single cheek kiss between men and women; handshakes in formal settings.
Use formal titles (Señor/Señora) until invited otherwise.
Dining etiquette
Chileans use utensils for almost everything, even fruit.
Don’t leave the table until the host says it’s finished.
Social cues
Conversations are polite and measured; avoid interrupting.
Football and politics can be sensitive topics — tread carefully.
Formality
Chileans tend to be more reserved than other Latin neighbors.
Arrive on time for business meetings, a bit later for social ones.
Greetings
In Bogotá: handshake in formal contexts; cheek kiss in casual settings.
In coastal regions: greetings are warmer and more physical.
Dining etiquette
“Buen provecho” is always said before starting a meal.
Never leave food untouched — it’s seen as wasteful.
Social cues
Colombians are proud of their country — avoid negative stereotypes.
Dancing is social currency: don’t decline a salsa or cumbia invitation lightly.
Safety awareness
Flaunting wealth is frowned upon.
Respect local advice about neighborhoods and transport.
Greetings
Handshake in formal settings; hug or cheek kiss among friends.
The phrase “¡Pura Vida!” works for hello, goodbye, and everything in between.
Dining etiquette
Rice and beans are staples — expect them at every meal.
Don’t rush meals; dining is a social activity.
Social cues
Ticos are friendly but value politeness — raise your voice only in emergencies.
Queues are respected — no cutting in line.
Environmental respect
Costa Ricans take sustainability seriously: recycle, reuse, and respect nature.
Loud behavior in natural reserves is frowned upon.
Always greet shopkeepers and taxi drivers.
Show genuine interest in local culture — language, food, traditions.
Carry small bills and coins for tips and small purchases.
Learn at least a few Spanish basics — effort matters more than perfection.
And finally, Terravelers should remember that etiquette is never just about words and gestures, but also about food — the heart of every culture in South America.
In Ecuador, sharing a bowl of locro de papa, a rich potato soup with cheese and avocado, biting into a perfectly grilled cuy, or savoring a hearty seco de chivo, a slow-cooked goat stew, is as much a social act as a culinary one.
In Peru, the table becomes an altar to national pride: the world-famous ceviche, fresh fish cured in lime; lomo saltado, a fusion of Chinese stir-fry and Andean ingredients; and the comforting aji de gallina, shredded chicken in a creamy pepper sauce, are dishes that every traveler must taste.
In Chile, food speaks of sea and land together: pastel de choclo, a sweet corn pie layered with meat and raisins; cazuela, a warming meat and vegetable broth; and reineta or congrio, fresh Pacific fish grilled simply, represent the Chilean table.
Colombia surprises with bandeja paisa, a mountain of beans, rice, egg, avocado, and meats all on one plate; arepas, the golden corn cakes eaten morning to night; and sancocho, a slow-cooked stew that changes slightly by region but always binds families together.
Costa Rica, ever true to its “pura vida,” greets you with gallo pinto, rice and beans cooked with spices for breakfast; casado, the balanced midday plate of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat; and olla de carne, a rustic beef and vegetable soup.
Together, these staples are more than food — they are stories, traditions, and an invitation to share life with the locals who prepare them.
