Currency

The official currency of Peru is New Sol (code PEN; symbol S/.), divided into 100 céntimos. Notes come in denominations of S/.200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are available in denominations of S/.5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 céntimos.

US dollars are widely accepted for payment, particularly in tourist areas.

Note that counterfeit money, both local currency as well as US dollars, is common and a growing problem in Peru. Check all bills that you receive as change or when exchanging money.

Foreign Currency Exchange

Foreign currency can be changed at banks or at money exchange offices (casas de cambio). Street money changer (cambistas) offer competitive rates but there is higher risk that you will be cheated or receive counterfeit bills. Best rates are offered for US dollars.

Note that you should not accept damaged bills, as they are may not be accepted in stores; you will need to go to a bank to replace them.

ATMs

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are available in big cities, larger hotels, and tourist areas. ATMs are the safest and preferable option for obtaining cash in Peru through credit card cash advance or debit card cash withdrawal.

Credit Cards

Most major credit cards (particularly Visa and MasterCard) are accepted in Lima and in tourist areas by larger hotels or shops. In other places acceptance of credit cards may be limited.

Traveler's Checks

Traveler's checks are acceptable in most banks and exchange offices, although the rates are usually lower than for exchanging cash. The most widely accepted checks are American Express, followed by Visa and Thomas Cook. Best rates are offered for checks in US dollars.

Banking Hours

Typically banks are open from 9:00am to 6:00pm, Monday to Saturday, and 9:00am to 1:00pm on Saturdays.

Current Peruvian Nuevo Sol Rates

For other currencies or conversion amounts go to Currency Converter