Money, Payments & Tipping in Peru: How to Pay, What to Carry, and What to Expect
Understanding how money works in Peru makes travel much smoother, especially when navigating markets, restaurants, small towns, and transportation hubs. This FAQ explains how to use cash and cards, where to find reliable ATMs, what bills to carry, and what tipping looks like in different situations. These guidelines are based on real conditions in Peru’s major destinations and can help you avoid common issues like rejected cards, ATM fees, or inflated exchange rates. For broader planning, you can also visit the main Peru Travel FAQ collection, or explore our guides on Food & Drink and Safety & Health to learn more about daily costs and money-related precautions.
Does Peru accept US dollars?
Yes, U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and some restaurants.
While the official currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN), many businesses in major tourist hubs including Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa accept U.S. dollars, especially for larger transactions such as hotel bills, tours, and flights. However, notes should be physically clean, unstained, and not torn; damaged bills may be refused. For taxis, small shops, markets, and everyday expenses, carrying soles is recommended as they are the local currency and widely preferred.
Sources:
- Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP)
- Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR, gob.pe)
- US Department of State Travel Advice
What is the best currency to take to Peru?
Bring U.S. dollars, and exchange them for Peruvian soles (PEN) once in Peru.
The Peruvian sol is the official currency, but U.S. dollars are the most convenient currency to bring and exchange, as they offer widely favorable rates. Euros and other foreign currencies can be exchanged but often receive less advantageous conversion rates. For safety and fairness, exchange currency only at authorized banks or casas de cambio (exchange houses) rather than unregulated street vendors.
Sources:
- Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP)
- Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism
- PromPerú
Should I bring cash to Peru?
Yes, bring some cash, especially for smaller towns or rural areas.
Credit and debit cards are accepted at most large hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban centers, but cash remains essential for markets, small eateries, taxis, and remote locations. Carry small denominations of soles (10–20 PEN) for easier transactions. Many travelers recommend carrying around $100–$200 USD in cash, divided between safe locations like money belts or hotel safes.
Sources:
- PromPerú
- US Department of State
- Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism
Should I exchange money in the US or Peru?
Exchange your money in Peru, where you’ll get better rates.
Airport exchange desks and banks in the US generally offer less favorable rates compared to those in Peru. Official banks and authorized exchange houses in Peru provide competitive rates and better security. Avoid street/exclusive exchangers, who may offer tempting rates but with a risk of counterfeit bills. Always verify bills before completing transactions.
Sources:
- Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP)
- Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism
- US Embassy in Peru
Can I use my credit/debit card in Peru?
Yes, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas.
Most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators accept Visa and Mastercard, but smaller vendors and businesses usually take cash only. American Express is less commonly accepted. As a security backup, always carry some Peruvian soles in cash, especially when visiting rural or less-developed areas.
Sources:
- PromPerú
- US Department of State
- Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism
Are credit cards accepted in markets and smaller towns?
No, most small businesses and markets are cash-only.
In areas like Cusco’s Mercado San Pedro, only a small fraction of vendors accepts digital payments. Tourists should be prepared to pay in cash or withdraw Peruvian soles in advance to use for purchases in local markets and smaller towns.
Sources:
- PromPerú
- US Department of State
Are ATMs widely available in Peru?
Yes, ATMs are common in all major cities and tourist areas.
Banks such as BCP, Scotiabank, Interbank, and BBVA operate ATMs widely compatible with international Visa and Mastercard cards. Choosing ATMs inside banks or well-trafficked shopping centers improves security. Withdrawals are limited per transaction, commonly between 400 and 700 soles.
Sources:
- Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP)
- PromPerú
- US Embassy Peru
What are the best credit cards to use in Peru?
Visa and Mastercard are the most reliable options.
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels and larger restaurants. American Express and Discover cards are less commonly accepted. Cards without foreign transaction fees like Chase Sapphire, Capital One Venture, or Amex Gold are recommended to minimize extra charges.
Sources:
- US Department of State
- PromPerú
Are there any fees for using foreign cards?
Yes, foreign transaction fees may apply—usually 1%–3% per purchase.
Consumers should check with their banks regarding foreign transaction fees before travel. ATMs also frequently impose fees (10–20 soles per withdrawal) on top of bank charges. To avoid excessive fees, withdraw larger sums less often and use credit cards that waive international transaction fees.
Sources:
- US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
- Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP)
Do I need to notify my bank before traveling?
Yes, it’s best to notify your bank before using your card in Peru.
Banks may block a card if they detect unusual international transactions. Notifying your bank in advance via their travel alert features ensures smooth card usage abroad.
Sources:
- Major international banks (Chase, Capital One, Citi) consumer advisories
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Peru?
Yes, but only in major cities and modern businesses.
Popular digital wallets are usable at select merchants and upscale businesses in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. These services are not widely accepted in smaller towns or rural areas, so carrying cash remains essential.
Sources:
- PromPerú
- US Embassy Peru
Is tipping expected in restaurants or tours?
Yes, tipping is customary but not mandatory.
Standard practice is to leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service is not included. Tour guides and drivers typically receive $5–$10 per person for full-day tours. Hotel porters and housekeeping usually get 1–2 soles or a few soles, respectively. While appreciated, tips should reflect the quality of service.
Sources:
- PromPerú
- US Department of State
How much is a Coke in Peru?
A Coke costs about 3–5 soles ($0.80–$1.30).
The price varies with location, often cheaper in supermarkets (~3 soles) and higher in tourist restaurants (5–7 soles). In general, bottled water and other soft drinks carry similar price tags.
Sources:
- PromPerú
- Local market surveys
How much money should I take for a week in Peru?
Expect to spend around $500–$900 per week, excluding international flights.
Budget travelers usually spend $50–$80 per day on shared lodging and local food. Mid-range tourists average $100–$150, factoring private hotels and guided tours. Luxury travelers budget $250+ daily for premium lodging and personalized experiences. A combination of cash and cards plus occasional ATM withdrawals is advisable.
Sources:
- PromPerú
- US Department of State
Is it better to carry small bills in soles or US dollars?
Carry small bills in soles for everyday expenses.
While U.S. dollars are useful for hotels and tours, most vendors for daily purchases—food, taxis, markets—prefer soles. Small denominations of 10, 20, or 50 soles simplify transactions as many sellers lack change for large bills.
Sources:
- PromPerú
- Local traveler guides
Are there scams with currency exchange at the airport?
Yes, exchange rates at airports are less favorable, and scams can occur.
Airport exchange counters offer rates up to 10–15% worse than official city banks or houses. Street exchangers are risky and some travelers report counterfeit bills. It is safest to use official banks, authorized exchange counters, or ATMs.
Sources:
- Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR)
- Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP)
- US Embassy Peru
Once you understand the basics of paying, tipping, and budgeting in Peru, managing daily expenses becomes simple and predictable. Whether you prefer using cash in soles, paying by card in restaurants, or relying on ATMs in larger cities, planning ahead helps you avoid unnecessary fees and frustrations.
After exploring this section, continue preparing your trip with our guides on Getting around in Peru or Responsible Travel, which can help you anticipate costs for meals, tours, local travel, and common travel essentials. With the right preparation, you can enjoy Peru comfortably and confidently without overspending.
