Connecting with friends, family, or business partners in Peru from the United States might seem complicated at first. Different dialing codes, time zones, and potential costs can make anyone hesitant. However, with the right information, calling Peru from the USA becomes straightforward. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, helping you make international calls to Peru easily and affordably.

Whether you are reaching out to family in Lima, coordinating a business venture in Cusco, or planning your next adventure to Machu Picchu, understanding the correct dialing process is essential. We will cover everything from country codes and area codes to cost-saving tips and the best times to dial. For general information on country codes worldwide, you can often find reliable resources online, such as CountryCode.org, which lists various international dialing prefixes. This guide aims to simplify the process for you, ensuring your calls connect smoothly.

Understanding Peru Phone Numbers

Before you dial, it helps to understand the structure of a Peruvian phone number. Like many countries, Peru uses a combination of a country code, an area code, and a local number. Knowing these components ensures your call reaches the correct destination.

Peruvian Country Code

Peru’s country code is +51. You will always need to dial this two-digit code after your international exit code when making international calls to Peru. It tells the telephone network you are connecting to Peru specifically.

Area Codes in Peru

Peru has various area codes for its different regions and major cities. These codes range from one to two digits long. You must include the correct area code to direct your call to the specific city or region within Peru.

Here are some common area codes for major Peruvian cities:

This table provides a quick reference for some of the most frequently called areas. Always double-check the specific area code for the number you intend to call. A small mistake in the area code can lead to a misdial.

Phone Number Format in Peru

Peruvian phone numbers, after the country and area code, consist of local numbers. Landline numbers generally have 6 or 7 digits. Mobile numbers often have 9 digits.

• Landline Format: +51 (Area Code) XXXXXXX (e.g., +51 1 2345678 for Lima)
• Mobile Format: +51 (Mobile Prefix/Area Code) XXXXXXXXX (e.g., +51 9XX XXXXXXX for a mobile number)

The mobile prefix is typically the first digit of the 9-digit mobile number, often starting with a ‘9’. This structure ensures each phone number is unique and traceable within the Peruvian telecommunications system.

Step-by-Step Guide: Calling Peru from a Landline

Calling Peru from the USA using a traditional landline is a common method. It requires a specific sequence of numbers to connect your call internationally. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your call goes through.

1. Dial the International Dialing Prefix

First, you must dial the international dialing prefix from the USA. This code signals that you are making an international call.

• From the United States, the international dialing prefix is 011.

So, your dialing sequence starts with 011. This prefix is crucial for any international call you make from a US landline.

2. Enter the Peru Country Code

Next, dial Peru’s country code. This code directs your call to Peru.

• Peru’s country code is 51.

After dialing 011, you will now have 011 51 in your dialing sequence.

3. Add the Peruvian Area Code

After the country code, you need to dial the specific area code for the city or region you are calling in Peru.

• Find the correct area code (e.g., 1 for Lima, 84 for Cusco).

For instance, if you are calling a landline in Lima, your sequence becomes 011 51 1.

4. Dial the Local Phone Number

Finally, enter the local Peruvian phone number. This is the last part of the number you wish to reach.

• Landline numbers in Peru typically have 6 or 7 digits.

Putting it all together, a call to a Lima landline might look like: 011 51 1 XXXXXXX. This complete sequence allows your call to route correctly through the international network to its destination in Peru.

Step-by-Step Guide: Calling Peru from a Mobile Phone

Calling Peru from a US mobile phone offers a slightly different, often simpler, initial step compared to landlines. Many modern smartphones handle the international dialing prefix automatically when you use the ‘+’ symbol. This makes calling Peru from US mobile phones quite convenient.

1. Use the Plus (+) Sign for International Access

On most mobile phones, you can use the plus sign (+) as a universal international dialing prefix. This symbol replaces the ‘011’ you would use on a landline.

• Press and hold the 0 key on your mobile phone until the + symbol appears.

This is a common feature on smartphones and makes dialing much easier.

2. Enter the Peru Country Code

Just like with a landline, the next step is to enter Peru’s country code.

• Peru’s country code is 51.

So, your dialing sequence will start with +51.

3. Include the Peruvian Area Code or Mobile Prefix

After the country code, dial the appropriate area code for a landline or the initial digits for a mobile number.

• For landlines, use the specific area code (e.g., 1 for Lima).
• For mobile numbers, Peruvian mobile numbers start with a ‘9’. You will dial this ‘9’ and then the remaining 8 digits of the mobile number. The area code is not used for mobile numbers in the same way as landlines.

Therefore, for a Lima landline, you would dial +51 1. For a Peruvian mobile number, you would dial +51 9.

4. Dial the Local Phone Number

Complete the sequence by entering the local phone number.

• Landline numbers are typically 6 or 7 digits.
• Mobile numbers are always 9 digits long in Peru.

An example for a mobile call to Peru from a US mobile would be: +51 9XXXXXXXX. This ensures your call connects to the correct mobile device in Peru.

Tips for US Mobile Carriers

Different US mobile carriers may have specific international calling plans or rates. Always check with your provider (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) about their international dialing charges or add-on packages before making long calls. Some plans include discounted or free international calls to certain countries, which can save you a lot of money. Understanding your plan can help avoid unexpected charges on your bill.

The Best Time to Call Peru from the USA

Considering the time difference is crucial for effective communication, especially when making international calls to Peru. You want to avoid calling too early in the morning or too late at night. Respecting local time ensures your call is well-received.

Time Zones in Peru

Peru observes a single time zone throughout the entire country. This simplifies things greatly.

• Peru Standard Time (PET) is GMT-5.

This means Peru is five hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

Time Difference with US Time Zones

The United States spans multiple time zones, so the time difference with Peru will vary depending on your location in the US.

Here is a quick reference for common US time zones:

• Eastern Standard Time (EST): Peru is the same time as EST during standard time (e.g., if it’s 2 PM EST, it’s 2 PM in Peru). However, during Daylight Saving Time in the US (EDT), Peru is one hour behind (e.g., if it’s 2 PM EDT, it’s 1 PM in Peru).
• Central Standard Time (CST): Peru is one hour ahead of CST (e.g., if it’s 2 PM CST, it’s 3 PM in Peru). During Daylight Saving Time in the US (CDT), Peru is two hours ahead (e.g., if it’s 2 PM CDT, it’s 4 PM in Peru).
• Mountain Standard Time (MST): Peru is two hours ahead of MST (e.g., if it’s 2 PM MST, it’s 4 PM in Peru). During Daylight Saving Time in the US (MDT), Peru is three hours ahead (e.g., if it’s 2 PM MDT, it’s 5 PM in Peru).
• Pacific Standard Time (PST): Peru is three hours ahead of PST (e.g., if it’s 2 PM PST, it’s 5 PM in Peru). During Daylight Saving Time in the US (PDT), Peru is four hours ahead (e.g., if it’s 2 PM PDT, it’s 6 PM in Peru).

Always remember to factor in Daylight Saving Time changes in the US, as Peru does not observe it.

Business Hours vs. Personal Calls

• For Business Calls: Aim for regular Peruvian business hours, which are typically Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM PET. Calling during these hours ensures you reach people during their workday.
• For Personal Calls: Consider calling during evenings or weekends in Peru. This allows friends and family to be free from work or other commitments. A good window might be between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM PET.

Checking the current time in Peru before you dial can save you from an inconvenient call. A quick online search for “current time in Peru” will give you the exact local time.

Understanding the Cost of Calling Peru from the USA

The cost of making international calls to Peru can vary significantly. Many factors influence the per-minute rate. Being aware of these elements helps you manage your communication budget effectively.

Factors Affecting Cost

Several key factors determine how much you pay for international calls:

• Your Phone Carrier: Different carriers (e.g., Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint) have their own international calling rates and plans. These can differ widely.
• Your Calling Plan: Some phone plans include international minutes, while others charge per minute for every international call. Check if your current plan offers any benefits for international calls to Peru.
• Type of Phone: Landline calls generally have different rates than mobile calls. Mobile calls might sometimes be more expensive due to network roaming charges or specific international mobile rates.
• Time of Day: Though less common now, some older plans or services might still offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours or weekends. Always verify this with your provider.

Traditional international calling can sometimes be surprisingly expensive, especially for frequent or long conversations. Hidden fees like connection charges or taxes can add to the total cost.

Traditional vs. VoIP Costs

• Traditional Calling: This involves direct dialing through landlines or cellular networks. Rates are typically higher, often ranging from $0.10 to $0.50 per minute or more, depending on your carrier and plan. These costs can quickly add up during extended conversations.
• VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Calling: This method uses the internet to make calls. VoIP services are generally much more affordable, often offering rates as low as $0.01 to $0.05 per minute or even unlimited calling plans for a fixed monthly fee. The sound quality also tends to be very good with a stable internet connection.

VoIP services, like Telfon, significantly reduce the financial burden of international communication. They leverage internet technology to bypass traditional phone networks, leading to substantial savings.

Why You Might Need to Call Peru

People call Peru for a variety of compelling reasons, reflecting the deep connections and diverse interests between the United States and Peru. Understanding these reasons highlights the importance of reliable international communication.

Connecting with Family & Friends

Many individuals living in the USA have family members, close friends, or loved ones residing in Peru. Regular calls help maintain these vital relationships, bridging the geographical distance. It allows for sharing updates, celebrating special occasions, and offering emotional support. Staying connected with relatives strengthens cultural ties and personal bonds.

Business Opportunities

Peru offers a growing market and various business opportunities. Many companies engage in trade, tourism, and remote work arrangements with Peruvian partners. Regular communication is essential for:

• Sales and Marketing: Reaching potential clients or existing customers.
• Customer Support: Providing assistance to Peruvian customers.
• Supply Chain Management: Coordinating with suppliers or distributors.
• Team Collaboration: Working with remote teams or outsourced personnel.
• Investment and Development: Discussing projects or partnerships.

Effective communication drives successful international business ventures. It fosters trust and ensures smooth operations.

Travel Planning

Peru is a popular tourist destination, home to iconic sites like Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, and vibrant cities like Cusco and Arequipa. Travelers frequently need to call hotels, tour operators, or local contacts to:

• Make reservations.
• Confirm bookings.
• Inquire about travel details.
• Resolve last-minute issues.

Clear communication is vital for a stress-free travel experience.

Academic and Research Purposes

Students, academics, and researchers often connect with universities, institutions, or individuals in Peru for:

• Collaborative research projects.
• Student exchange programs.
• Field studies.
• Language learning.

These calls facilitate knowledge exchange and academic advancement. Each of these reasons underscores the need for an efficient and cost-effective way to call Peru from the USA.

How Telfon Simplifies International Calls to Peru

Telfon is a leading virtual phone calling app designed to make international communication seamless and affordable. It acts as a cloud telephony solution, providing a virtual phone system that’s perfect for both individuals and businesses. When you need to make international calls to Peru, Telfon offers a superior alternative to traditional phone services.

What is Telfon?

Telfon provides virtual phone numbers for international calling, SMS, and WhatsApp integration. It is a B2B and B2C online communicator that helps users connect globally. The system uses VoIP technology, meaning your calls travel over the internet, resulting in clearer connections and lower costs. Telfon is trusted by diverse sectors, including real estate, international hiring, customer support, and sales & marketing.

Key Benefits for Calling Peru

Telfon excels at facilitating international calls to Peru due to several core advantages:

• Virtual Number Peru: You can purchase a virtual number specifically for Peru. This allows people in Peru to call you at a local rate, making it more convenient for them. This creates a local presence for your business or personal contacts.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Telfon’s VoIP system offers significantly lower per-minute rates for international calls compared to traditional carriers. This means you can talk longer for less money.
• High Call Quality: With a stable internet connection, Telfon delivers excellent voice clarity, minimizing echoes or dropped calls. This ensures your conversations are smooth and professional.
• Ease of Use: The Telfon app is user-friendly and intuitive. You can manage your calls, contacts, and account settings easily from your device.

These benefits combine to offer a reliable and affordable solution for anyone needing to call Peru from the USA.

Specific Features That Enhance Your Calling Experience

Telfon offers a range of features designed to improve your international calling experience:

• International Calls to 180+ Countries: Not just Peru, Telfon allows you to connect globally.
• Call Recordings: Record important conversations for future reference or training purposes. This is especially useful for business calls or interviews.
• Send & Receive SMS: Communicate via text messages internationally, not just calls.
• WhatsApp Integration: Integrate multiple WhatsApp accounts, making it easier to manage client communications or personal chats. You can send broadcast messages too.
• Multi-Country Numbers Simultaneously: Manage virtual numbers from different countries all within one platform. This is ideal for businesses with international operations.
• Voicemail & Voicemail to Text: Never miss a message. Voicemail can also be transcribed to text for convenience.
• Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to another number if you are unavailable.
• User Analytics (B2B): Businesses can track call history, user activity, and manage budgets for their teams. This provides valuable insights into communication patterns.

Getting a Virtual Number for Peru with Telfon

Acquiring a virtual number for Peru through Telfon is a simple process:

1. Sign Up: Create an account on the Telfon platform.
2. Select Country: Choose “Peru” from the list of available countries.
3. Choose Number: Select a virtual number that suits your needs.
4. Complete Purchase: Follow the steps to purchase and activate your new Peruvian virtual number.

Once activated, you can start making and receiving calls to and from Peru as if you were local. Telfon truly transforms how you connect internationally.

Tips for a Smooth Calling Experience

Making international calls can sometimes be tricky. Following a few simple tips can greatly improve your calling experience to Peru, ensuring clear communication and avoiding frustrations.

Double-Check Numbers

Before you dial, always double-check the entire phone number. This includes the international dialing prefix, the country code, the area code, and the local number. A single incorrect digit can prevent your call from connecting or lead to dialing the wrong person. It is easy to make a small error, so a quick review can save you time and effort.

Consider Internet Connection (for VoIP)

If you are using a VoIP service like Telfon, your call quality directly depends on your internet connection.

• Use a Strong Wi-Fi Signal: A stable, high-speed Wi-Fi connection provides the best call quality.
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Important Calls: Public Wi-Fi networks can be unreliable or have lower bandwidth, affecting call clarity.
• Check Bandwidth: If multiple devices are using the internet heavily (e.g., streaming videos, downloading large files), it can impact your call quality. Try to minimize other internet usage during your call.

A robust internet connection ensures your voice travels clearly without delays or interruptions.

Be Aware of Cultural Norms

While not strictly about dialing, understanding cultural norms can enhance your conversation.

• Greetings: A polite greeting, like “Buenos días” (good morning) or “Buenas tardes” (good afternoon), is always appreciated.
• Patience: Peruvian communication can sometimes be more relaxed. Be patient if there are slight delays in responses.
• Formality: When speaking to someone for the first time or in a business context, it is best to maintain a professional and respectful tone.

These small considerations can make your calls more pleasant and effective.

Battery Life

For mobile calls, ensure your device has sufficient battery life. International calls can consume more power, especially if using a VoIP app over data. A low battery might lead to your call being cut short unexpectedly. Keep your phone charged, especially before important international conversations.

Common Issues When Calling Peru & How to Resolve Them

Even with the correct dialing sequence, you might encounter issues when trying to call Peru from the USA. Understanding these common problems and their solutions can help you troubleshoot quickly.

1. Busy Signal

A busy signal means the person you are calling is already on another line.

• Solution: Simply wait a few minutes and try calling again. The line should clear up soon.
• AI Insight: What does a busy signal mean when calling Peru? A busy signal indicates the recipient’s line is currently in use. It is a temporary condition.

2. No Ringing or Call Not Connecting

If you dial the number and hear nothing, or the call does not seem to connect, several factors could be at play.

• Incorrect Number: The most common reason. Double-check every digit of the country code, area code, and local number.
• Network Issues: There might be a temporary issue with your carrier’s network or the Peruvian network.
• Blocked Calls: In rare cases, the recipient might have blocked your number, or there could be international calling restrictions on their end.
• Solution:

Verify the number meticulously.

Try again after a short while.

If using a traditional landline or mobile service, contact your carrier for assistance.

If using VoIP, check your internet connection and the app’s status.

3. Poor Call Quality

You might experience static, echoes, or a delayed voice during your call.

• Internet Speed (VoIP): A slow or unstable internet connection is the primary cause for VoIP calls.
• Network Congestion (Traditional): During peak hours, traditional phone networks can get congested, affecting quality.
• Solution:

For VoIP: Move closer to your Wi-Fi router, disconnect other devices using bandwidth, or try a different internet connection.

For Traditional: Try calling at a different time when network congestion might be lower.

Ensure both parties have good signal strength if using mobile phones.

4. Unexpected Charges

You might find higher-than-expected charges on your phone bill after calling Peru.

• Solution:

Always review your mobile carrier’s international calling rates before making the call.

Consider purchasing an international calling plan or add-on.

Switch to a cost-effective VoIP service like Telfon, which offers transparent and lower rates for international calls.

Understanding these issues and implementing these solutions will help you resolve problems quickly and ensure your calls to Peru are successful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people ask about calling Peru from the USA.

Q1: What is the country code for Peru?

A: The country code for Peru is +51. You must dial this after your international exit code (011 from the USA, or the ‘+’ symbol on mobile phones).

Q2: How do I call a mobile number in Peru from the USA?

A: To call a Peruvian mobile number from the USA, dial +51 followed by the 9-digit mobile number, which always starts with ‘9’. For example, +51 9XXXXXXXX.

Q3: Do I need to dial an area code for Peruvian mobile numbers?

A: No, you do not need to dial a separate area code for Peruvian mobile numbers. The ‘9’ that begins the 9-digit mobile number functions as part of the mobile identifier.

Q4: What is the time difference between the USA and Peru?

A: Peru observes GMT-5. This means it is the same time as US EST during standard time. During US Daylight Saving Time (EDT), Peru is one hour behind EDT. For other US time zones, Peru is ahead by 1 to 3 hours during standard time, and 2 to 4 hours during US Daylight Saving Time.

Q5: Can I send text messages to Peru from the USA?

A: Yes, most mobile carriers support international SMS. Services like Telfon also offer international SMS sending and receiving capabilities.

Q6: Is it expensive to call Peru from the USA?

A: The cost varies greatly. Traditional carriers can be expensive, often charging per minute. VoIP services like Telfon offer significantly lower rates and can be much more cost-effective for international calls.

Q7: What is the best way to make cheap calls to Peru?

A: Using a VoIP service like Telfon is generally the most cost-effective way to make cheap international calls to Peru. These services leverage internet connections to offer lower per-minute rates or unlimited calling plans.

Q8: What if my call to Peru isn’t connecting?

A: First, double-check the entire number you are dialing, including the international prefix, country code, area code, and local number. Then, try again. If using a VoIP service, ensure you have a strong and stable internet connection. If the problem persists, contact your phone service provider or the VoIP app’s support.

Q9: Does Peru observe Daylight Saving Time?

A: No, Peru does not observe Daylight Saving Time. Its time (GMT-5) remains constant throughout the year.

Q10: How can Telfon help my business call Peru regularly?

A: Telfon provides a robust cloud phone system with features like virtual numbers for Peru, competitive international call rates, call recording, SMS, WhatsApp integration, and user analytics. This makes it ideal for businesses needing regular, reliable, and affordable communication with Peru.

Conclusion

Making international calls to Peru from the USA is a straightforward process once you understand the necessary dialing codes and procedures. By remembering to dial the international access code (011 or +), Peru’s country code (51), the appropriate area code, and finally the local number, you can connect with confidence.

However, traditional calling methods can often come with high costs and varying call quality. This is where services like Telfon truly make a difference. Telfon simplifies your international calls to Peru by offering cost-effective virtual numbers, superior call quality via VoIP, and a suite of features like call recording and SMS. Whether for personal connections, business opportunities, or travel planning, Telfon provides a reliable and affordable solution. Embrace modern communication tools to stay connected with Peru effortlessly and efficiently.