Money & Tipping

Traveling in Peru is surprisingly affordable, but handling money here comes with its quirks. Between cash-only rules at some attractions, how tipping works, and ATM fees, a little know-how goes a long way.

Currency Basics

• Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN).

• Exchange Rate: It fluctuates, but $1 USD is usually around 3.5–3.9 soles.

• Cash vs. Card: Cards are widely accepted in Lima and Cusco’s larger restaurants and hotels, but cash is essential for markets, small towns, tours, and trail fees.

👉 Pro Tip: Always carry small bills (10s and 20s). Many shops won’t accept 100-soles notes, and breaking them can be surprisingly difficult.

ATMs

• Banks: BCP, BBVA, and Scotiabank are reliable and widely available.

• Fees: Expect withdrawal fees of $3–5 per transaction, plus whatever your home bank charges.

• Max Withdrawals: Often limited to 400 soles (~$100) at a time.

• Tip: Use ATMs attached to major banks for safety, and withdraw larger amounts less often to minimize fees.

Tipping Etiquette

• Restaurants: 10% is standard. Sometimes it’s included (look for “servicio” on your bill). If not, you can add it in cash when paying.

• Credit Cards: You can’t add a tip after the card is run. If you want to tip by card, tell them the total amount before they swipe.

• Cafés & Small Eateries: Rounding up or leaving a few soles is appreciated but not expected.

• Tours & Guides: Tipping guides and drivers is customary.

• Hotels: A few soles for bellhops and housekeeping is polite.

👉 Our experience: At first we felt awkward since we initially didn't know that we should say the amount with tip before running the car, but we quickly got used it. We also started keeping a stash of small coins and bills for this purpose.

Paying at Cafés & Shops

• In sit-down cafés, the server brings the card machine to your table.

• Always double-check the total before entering your PIN.

• Don’t be surprised if they ask “¿con boleta o factura?” — this refers to the type of receipt. As a tourist, “boleta” is fine.

Other Things to Note

• Trails & Sites: Some attractions (like the Cusco Tourist Pass) require cash only.

• Markets: Vendors may prefer exact change.

• Airbnb & Family Stays: If booking tours through hosts, expect to pay in cash.

✨ Bottom Line: Cash is still king in Peru, so keep small bills on hand. Learn the tipping customs, expect ATM fees, and you’ll avoid money headaches during your trip.