The official currency of Peru is the Sol (S/) ( code: PEN), which replaced the old Inti in 1991. If you are planning a trip, it is important to know how to handle money to avoid confusion and spend wisely.
1. Banknotes and Coins in Peru
Banknotes in Circulation
- S/ 10 (violet) – Inca Garcilaso de la Vega
- S/ 20 (orange) – Raúl Porras Barrenechea
- S/ 50 (brown) – Abraham Valdelomar
- S/ 100 (blue) – Jorge Basadre
- S/ 200 (green) – Santa Rosa de Lima (uncommon)
Coins in Circulation
- S/ 1, S/ 2, S/ 5
- 10, 20, 50 cents
Tip: Always carry small coins for public transportation and markets.
2. Where to Exchange Money in Peru?
Exchange Houses (Best Exchange Rate)
- Located in tourist areas (Lima, Cusco, Arequipa).
- Passports are required for large transactions.
Banks (Safe but slower)
- Banco de la Nación, BBVA, BCP, Interbank.
- Some of them charge exchange commission.
Airport (For Emergencies Only)
- The exchange rate is less favorable than in the city.
3. Use of Cards and ATMs
Credit/Debit Cards
- Accepted in hotels, restaurants and shopping centers.
- In small towns, cash only.
Automated Teller Machines (ATM)
- Global Net, BCP, Interbank accept international cards.
- They charge commission (S/ 10-20 per withdrawal).
- Withdrawal limit: S/ 400-1,000 per operation.
Tip: Use ATMs inside banks for greater security.
4. Can I pay with Dollars in Peru?
- Yes, but it is not recommended.
- Some businesses accept dollars, but the exchange rate is usually unfavorable.
- It is better to pay in soles to avoid overpricing.
5. How much does it cost to travel in Peru (Reference Prices 2024)?
| Product/Service | Price in Soles (S/) |
|---|---|
| Lunch with local menu | S/ 10-20 |
| Short cab (downtown Lima) | S/ 15-25 |
| Hostel (bed in dormitory) | S/ 30-60 |
| Entrance to Machu Picchu | S/ 152 (foreigners) |
| Bus Lima-Cusco | S/ 80-150 |
Tip: In markets and cabs, negotiate or ask the price beforehand.
6. Tips for Managing Money in Peru
- Carry cash in remote places (e.g. Sacred Valley, Amazon).
- Avoid torn or very old bills, sometimes they are not accepted.
- Tipping: 10% in restaurants (not obligatory).
- Check the change, some give counterfeit coins.
Conclusion: Travel without Problems with the Peruvian Sun
Managing money in Peru is easy if you follow these tips. Change money in exchange houses, carry cash for rural areas and use cards in big cities.
So you can enjoy your trip without financial worries!
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