Academics
Peru General Informtion
Peru Currency and Money Guide
No Visa is required for United States citizens for Peru.
Currency information:
New Sol (PEN; symbol S/.) = 100 céntimos. New Sol notes are in denominations of S/.200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of S/.5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 céntimos. $1.00 = 2.75 Pen New Sol
Note: US Dollars are also in use and accepted for payment, particularly in tourist areas. While effectively interchangeable, it is always good for tourists to have some local currency in small denominations, to pay for buses, taxis and goods in some small establishments.
Credit cards:
All major credit cards are accepted, but usage may be limited outside of Lima and tourist areas. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted. ATMs are now generally regarded as one of the best ways to obtain money in Peru.
ATM:
ATMs are now generally regarded as one of the best ways to obtain money in Peru.
Travelers checks:
Banks will exchange traveler’s checks although it can be a slow process outside Lima. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler’s checks in US Dollars. The ability to use traveler’s checks is also quite limited in some areas so you should check whether or not they will be accepted in the area you are visiting prior to travel.
Banking hours:
Mon-Fri 0900-1800, Sat 0900-1300 (may vary during the summer).
Currency restriction:
There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency, but amounts exceeding US$10,000 must be declared.
Currency exchange:
Only a few bureau de change in Lima and Cusco will exchange currencies other than US Dollars. Outside Lima, it is virtually impossible. US Dollars can be exchanged everywhere and banks, hotels and many shops also readily accept US Dollars (although very old, torn or damaged notes are usually rejected). It is not recommended
