How Not to Be That Gringo in Trujillo: A Field Guide from the Ground

so i landed in trujillo thinking i'd blend in, right? wrong. turns out, this city has rules. not written down, but you feel them in the sideways glances when you mess up. i'm a freelance photographer, so i'm always watching for moments, but here, the moments are watching you back.

first thing: greetings. you can't just nod and walk past someone. it's "buenos días" or "buenas tardes" or you're basically invisible. and handshakes? firm, eye contact, no half-assed limp fish moves. i learned that after three awkward encounters at a local cevichería.

yellow and white concrete building under blue sky during daytime

Food Etiquette: Don't Be That Guy

ceviche here is serious business. you don't ask for extra lime unless you want to insult the chef's balance. and don't even think about ketchup. locals will side-eye you into next week. lunch is the main event, not dinner. if you skip it, you're missing the real social scene.

overheard at a market stall: "ese gringo pidió ceviche con mayonesa. no lo invito más." (translation: "that gringo asked for ceviche with mayo. i'm not inviting him again.")

Dress Code: Keep It Low-Key

Trujillo isn't lima, but it's not a beach town either. leave the board shorts at the hostel. locals dress neat but casual. if you roll up to a family gathering in flip-flops and a tank top, you're basically announcing you don't respect the occasion.

Money and Tips

Tipping isn't mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. don't flash cash. i learned that the hard way when a street vendor gave me a look that could curdle milk.

Safety and Street Smarts

Trujillo's got its rough patches. petty theft happens, especially in crowded markets. keep your camera strap tight and your bag in front. i've had to chase a pickpocket once-never again.

The Weather and Nearby Escapes

it's sunny most of the year, but bring a jacket for cool evenings. chan chan, the ancient chimú ruins, is just a short drive away. worth the trip, and locals respect you more if you show interest in their history.

Cost of Living Snapshot

Expense	Local Price (PEN)	USD Approx.
Rent (1-bed apt)	800-1200	$220-$330
Meal at local spot	15-25	$4-$7
Taxi ride (short)	5-10	$1.50-$3

Final Thoughts

Trujillo's not about flashy moves or loud opinions. it's about showing up, saying hello, and eating what's offered. mess up? laugh it off and try again. locals appreciate the effort.

if you want more local tips, check out TripAdvisor's Trujillo Guide or ask around on Reddit's Peru community. just don't ask for ketchup on your ceviche.