One of the questions travelers often ask before arriving in Peru is:
“Should I bring US Dollars or Peruvian Soles?”
The good news is that both currencies can be useful during your trip. While the Peruvian Sol (PEN) is the country’s official currency, US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted for certain types of purchases, particularly in the tourism industry.
Understanding when to use each currency will help you save money and avoid unnecessary exchange fees.
The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN).
You’ll use Soles for most everyday expenses, including:
For daily purchases, it’s always a good idea to carry some Peruvian Soles.
Yes—but not everywhere.
Many businesses in Peru, especially those serving international visitors, are happy to accept US Dollars, including:
This is especially common for higher-value purchases such as:
However, it’s always worth asking before making a payment.
Most restaurants in Peru charge in Peruvian Soles.
Some restaurants in tourist areas may accept US Dollars, but they will usually calculate the payment using their own exchange rate, which may not be the same as the official market rate.
For this reason, paying in Peruvian Soles is often the easiest and most economical option when dining out.
Yes.
Many travelers choose to bring a combination of:
This gives you greater flexibility throughout your trip.
If you decide to bring US Dollars, make sure the bills are:
Banks, exchange offices, and businesses in Peru may refuse damaged or heavily worn US Dollar bills.
That depends on what you’re buying.
For hotels, travel packages, and some tourism services, paying in US Dollars can be very convenient.
For taxis, restaurants, cafés, local shops, and markets, paying in Peruvian Soles is usually the better option.
Many travelers exchange a portion of their dollars into Soles after arriving in Peru, keeping both currencies available during their trip.
For most everyday purchases, Peruvian Soles will usually provide the best value.
If you pay in US Dollars at businesses that don’t normally operate in dollars, the exchange rate they apply may be less favorable than the rate offered by an authorized exchange office.
Whenever possible:
US Dollars are the most widely accepted foreign currency in Peru.
If you’re traveling with Euros, British Pounds, Canadian Dollars, Australian Dollars, or other currencies, you’ll generally need to exchange them into Peruvian Soles before making purchases.
Authorized exchange offices in Lima and Cusco commonly exchange major international currencies.
Yes.
Many experienced travelers find that carrying both currencies is the most practical solution.
For example:
Use Peruvian Soles for:
Use US Dollars for:
Having both currencies gives you greater flexibility throughout your trip.
Yes.
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and many tourism businesses.
However, it’s still important to carry some cash, as:
The best way to manage your money in Peru is to combine different payment methods.
Carry a small amount of Peruvian Soles for everyday expenses, keep some US Dollars for larger purchases if needed, and bring an international credit or debit card for added convenience.
At Bond & Travel, we’re happy to answer your questions before you arrive, including advice about currency exchange, payments, ATMs, and the best ways to manage your money while traveling through Peru.
Whether you’re visiting Machu Picchu, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, or the Amazon, we’ll help you start your adventure with confidence.
Exchange rates and payment policies may vary between businesses. Some hotels, restaurants, and tour operators may accept US Dollars, while others only accept Peruvian Soles. Before making a payment in a foreign currency, it’s always a good idea to ask which exchange rate will be applied. We also recommend carrying a combination of cash and an international credit or debit card to ensure you have flexible payment options throughout your trip.
