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Peru Peru Currency Guide

The currency of Peru and how to prepare for payments — all on one page.

Currency

Peruvian Sol

PEN

Checking rates

Check with your bank app or card issuer before you go

The rate and fees you actually pay differ by bank and card issuer.

Payment Tips to Remember

Always pay in the local currency

If a terminal asks whether to charge in your home currency, always choose the local currency. Choosing your home currency triggers DCC (dynamic currency conversion), which adds a hidden markup.

Set up a travel card before you fly

Prepaid multi-currency travel cards let you convert money in the app beforehand and pay like a debit card locally. Fees are usually lower than cash exchange counters, and you can freeze the card instantly from the app if lost.

Airport exchange counters: last resort

Airport counters are convenient but tend to offer some of the worst rates. If you need cash, exchange via your bank's app before departure or consider withdrawing from a local ATM.

Check ATM fees on screen

Local ATMs may add their own operator fee. Check the fee shown on the confirmation screen before proceeding. If the ATM offers conversion to your home currency (DCC), choosing the local currency is usually better.

Keep some small cash

Every country has places that don't take cards — markets, tips, small transport. Carrying a small amount of cash in separate places keeps you covered.

Cards for Abroad

Explore the Wise multi-currency card

One account holding 40+ currencies, converting and paying at mid-market based rates. Handy for multi-country trips — no need to exchange for each currency separately.

Learn more

Local data

Get an eSIM for Peru before you go

Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

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Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

City Guides in Peru

Lima

Lima is the capital of Peru, situated on the Pacific coast, with a historic center that's pleasant to wander through remnants of the colonial era. The city has a long history dating back to its founding by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro.

Cusco

Cusco lies high in the Andes at an elevation of over 3,000 meters and is well known as the gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a great place to begin a trip while taking in the scenery unique to the high-altitude region.

Arequipa

Arequipa is a city in southern Peru where historic buildings such as its cathedral and the Santa Catalina Monastery are well preserved. Touring its palaces and churches offers a slow, immersive look at the city's history.

Trujillo

Trujillo is the capital of Peru's La Libertad region, home to the ancient ruins of Chan Chan and Huaca de la Luna nearby. It's also a great city to explore historic architecture, including its cathedral.

Callao

Callao is a port city west of Lima, Peru's capital, forming a single large metropolitan area with it. Visitors can experience its lively harbor scenery up close.