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Peru (PE)

Peru combines world-class food, ancient Inca heritage, Pacific coastline, Amazon rainforest, Andean cities and one of Latin America's lower cost-of-living profiles.

Capital: Lima
Region: Americas
Language: Spanish
Currency: PEN (S/)
Cost of living: Very affordable (index 30)
Emergency: 105
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Currency & Money

Practical money tips for living in Peru.

S/
Peruvian sol
PEN

Denominations

Coins: 10, 20 and 50 centimos; S/1, S/2 and S/5. Notes: S/10, S/20, S/50, S/100 and S/200.

Payment Culture

Peru is mixed: cards and contactless payments work well in Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and major chains, but cash is still essential for taxis, markets, small restaurants, rural areas and many landlords. Yape and Plin QR payments are everywhere but usually require a local bank account and phone number.

ATM Tips

Use bank ATMs inside branches or shopping centres. BCP, BBVA, Interbank and Scotiabank are the main networks. Foreign-card fees and withdrawal limits vary; carrying a backup card is important outside Lima and Cusco.

Exchange Tips

Avoid informal street changers unless you know the area well. Use bank branches, registered exchange houses or reputable online services. USD is common for rent deposits, property and school fees, while day-to-day spending is in soles.

Pro tip: Best apps for expats

  • • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
  • • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
  • • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents