Traveling to Peru is an incredible experience, but to make the most of your trip it’s important to understand how money works in the country: what currency is used, where it’s best to exchange, how ATMs work, what fees they charge, how to use your cards, and how much budget you need per day. Here you’ll find a detailed, clear, and up-to-date guide, perfect for planning your trip with no surprises.
1. Official Currency of Peru
The currency in Peru is the Peruvian sol (PEN), although you’ll often see prices in US dollars, especially in tourist areas like Cusco, Lima, and Arequipa.
Bills in circulation:
- S/ 10 (green)
- S/ 20 (orange)
- S/ 50 (purple)
- S/ 100 (blue)
- S/ 200 (red)
Common coins:
- 10, 20, and 50 céntimos
- 1, 2, and 5 soles
Useful tip: In Peru, torn or damaged bills are often NOT accepted. Avoid taking them.
2. Is it better to bring US dollars or euros to Peru?
US dollars (USD) — The best option
They are easy to exchange, widely accepted, and usually get a better exchange rate.
Euros (EUR)
They can also be exchanged, but the rate is usually less favorable and more variable.
Recommendations:
- Bring bills in perfect condition, without stains or tears.
- Prefer USD 20, 50, and 100 bills.
- Don’t exchange all your money at once: rates fluctuate.
3. Exchange houses: where to get the best rate
1. Formal exchange houses
They are located in the main tourist districts and offer the best rates in the country. They are safe and fast.
Examples by city:
- Lima: Miraflores, San Isidro
- Cusco: Historic center, Av. El Sol
- Arequipa: Downtown (Cercado), Calle Mercaderes
2. Authorized money changers (on the street)
You can identify them by:
- Vest with a registration number
- Visible ID badge
They offer competitive rates, but only exchange money in safe, busy areas.
Avoid exchanging money at:
- Airports (the worst rates in the country)
- Hotels (high hidden commissions)
- Small or unauthorized shops
4. ATMs: fees and limits
Main banks in Peru:
- BCP
- Interbank
- BBVA
- Scotiabank
ATM withdrawal fees:
ATMs usually charge between:
- S/ 18 and S/ 35 (USD 5–9) per transaction.
Withdrawal limits:
- Between S/ 700 and S/ 1,000 per transaction, depending on the bank.
Tips to save money:
- Some ATMs allow you to reject the ATM’s currency conversion (DCC). Always select:
“Continue without conversion”
This way you’ll pay fewer fees. - Use cards like Revolut, Wise, N26 if you want to avoid high international charges.
5. Credit and debit cards: acceptance and possible fees
The most widely accepted cards in Peru are:
- Visa (the most accepted)
- Mastercard
Variable acceptance:
- American Express
- Diners Club
Where can you pay with card?
- Hotels
- Tourist restaurants
- Supermarkets
- Large stores
- Travel agencies and tour operators
Where do they NOT accept cards?
- Local markets
- Craft fairs
- Taxis
- Rural towns
- Small businesses
Extra charge for paying by card:
Many businesses add a 3%–5% fee for foreign cards.
6. Tips in Peru: customs and recommended amounts
Although not mandatory, tips are appreciated and are part of the service culture.
Tipping guide:
- Tourist restaurants: 10% (if not already included in the bill)
- Tour guides:
- Half day: S/ 15–30 per person
- Full day: S/ 40–60 per person
- Porters / bellboys: S/ 2–3 per bag
- Taxis: No tip is expected
7. How much does it cost to travel in Peru? (Full daily budget)
The cost of your trip depends on your travel style, but here is an up-to-date average:
Backpacker (S/ 90–150 per day)
Includes:
- Budget hostels
- Daily set meals
- Public transportation
- Basic entrance tickets
Standard / average tourist (S/ 180–350 per day)
Ideal for:
- 3★ hotels
- Comfortable restaurants
- Main excursions
- Safe transportation
Comfortable trip (S/ 400–700+ per day)
Includes:
- 4★–5★ hotels
- Panoramic trains
- Private tours
- Exclusive experiences
Average prices in Peru:
- Local set menu: S/ 12–20
- Dinner in a tourist restaurant: S/ 35–80
- Bottle of water: S/ 2–4
- City taxi ride: S/ 8–20
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu: S/ 152–208
- Tourist bus to Machu Picchu: S/ 95–120
8. Final tips for handling money in Peru
Always carry some cash on you.
Check your bills so they aren’t rejected because of damage.
Don’t rely only on ATMs: in rural areas there may be none.
If you have a Peruvian phone number, you can use local e-wallets like Yape or Plin.
Exchange money only in safe, authorized places.
Keep your US dollars for emergencies or larger payments.
