Peru Currency Guide
The currency of Peru and how to prepare for payments — all on one page. The currency used in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN).
Currency
Peruvian Sol
PEN
Reference rate · October 31, 2026
1 USD ≈ 3.46 PEN
1 EUR ≈ 3.86 PEN
1 GBP ≈ 4.63 PEN
Peruvian Sol conversion table
Reference values calculated at the mid-market rate as of October 31, 2026. Banks and card issuers add their own fees to actual exchanges and card payments.
| USD | PEN |
|---|---|
| 1 USD | 3.46 PEN |
| 5 USD | 17.3 PEN |
| 10 USD | 34.6 PEN |
| 50 USD | 173 PEN |
| 100 USD | 346 PEN |
| 500 USD | 1,731 PEN |
| PEN | USD |
|---|---|
| 10 PEN | 2.89 USD |
| 50 PEN | 14.4 USD |
| 100 PEN | 28.9 USD |
| 500 PEN | 144 USD |
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.
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.