Budget to visit Peru

Budget to visit Peru

Understanding Peruvian Currency

The Peruvian Sol (PEN)

The official currency of Peru is the Sol (PEN), and its symbol is S/.

Common denominations you will encounter are:

• Bills: S/10, S/20, S/50, S/100, S/200
• Coins: 10, 20, 50 céntimos, and S/1, S/2, S/5

It is highly recommended to carry a mix of small bills and coins. Many small shops, market vendors, and taxi drivers may not have sufficient change for larger notes like S/100 or S/200 bills, so breaking them at larger establishments when you can is a wise practice.

Using US Dollars (USD)

US Dollars are widely accepted for larger payments at hotels, tour agencies, and some high-end restaurants, particularly in major tourist areas like Cusco, Lima, and Arequipa.

CRITICAL: Bills must be in pristine condition. Notes with any rips, tears, writing, or heavy creases may be rejected. It is best to bring crisp, modern bills.

While using USD is convenient for large purchases, please be aware that the exchange rate offered by vendors will be less favorable than what you would receive at a bank or an official currency exchange house (casa de cambio). For the best value on daily expenses such as meals, taxis, and souvenirs, we recommend using Peruvian Soles.

Daily Spending Estimates (Per Person)

Please note these estimates are for your personal, out-of-pocket expenses that are not covered in your pre-paid tour package. This typically includes lunches, dinners, drinks, souvenirs, and personal shopping.

Budget Traveler: $30 – $50 USD per day

• Focuses on meals at local markets (mercados) and small, family-run restaurants offering set menus (menús del día).
• Primarily uses public transportation or explores on foot.
• Limited spending on alcohol and souvenirs.

Mid-Range Traveler: $50 – $100 USD per day

• Enjoys a mix of local eateries and mid-range, tourist-oriented restaurants.
• Takes taxis or uses ride-sharing services for convenience.
• Indulges in a Pisco Sour or a local beer with dinner.
• Allocates a budget for moderate souvenir shopping.

Luxury Traveler: $100+ USD per day

• Dines at top-rated and fine-dining establishments.
• Primarily uses private taxis or pre-booked transportation.
• Enjoys craft cocktails, wine, and high-end shopping at venues like alpaca boutiques.

Breakdown of Common Costs

These sample prices are provided in both Peruvian Soles (PEN) and US Dollars (USD) for your convenience. Note that prices are generally higher in major tourist centers like Cusco and the Miraflores district of Lima compared to less-visited areas.

Food & Drink

• Bottled Water (600ml): S/2-3 ($0.50 – $0.80)
• Local Beer (e.g., Cusqueña) at a restaurant: S/8-15 ($2 – $4)
• Coffee at a café: S/7-12 ($1.80 – $3.20)
• Set Lunch (Menú del Día): S/10-25 ($2.50 – $6.50)
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant (main course): S/30-60 ($8 – $16)
• Pisco Sour at a good bar: S/20-35 ($5 – $9)

Local Transportation

• Taxi ride within a city (10-15 mins): S/10-20 ($2.50 – $5.50). Taxis in Peru are not metered, so you must always agree on the fare with the driver before getting into the vehicle.
• Ride-sharing app (Uber/Cabify): Often slightly cheaper and considered a safer alternative to hailing a taxi on the street.

Optional Activities & Entrance Fees

Please review your detailed itinerary to confirm which entrance fees are already included in your tour package. This list is for potential independent exploration during your free time.

• Entrance to a specific museum in Lima or Cusco: S/10-40 ($2.50 – $11)
• Boleto Turístico del Cusco (if not included): S/130 for the full 10-day ticket.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (requires advance booking): ~$75-$85 USD

Tipping Culture in Peru

Tipping is a gesture of gratitude for good service and is always appreciated, though it is not as obligatory or standardized as in countries like the USA.

Restaurants & Cafes

• A 10% tip is standard for good service in mid-range to high-end restaurants.
• Tipping is generally not expected at small, local eateries or when having a set-price menú del día.
• It is best to leave tips in cash directly for the server. Adding a tip to a credit card payment does not guarantee it will reach your server.

Tour Guides & Drivers

• Main Tour Guide (multi-day): Tipping is often done as a group at the conclusion of the tour. A common guideline is $10-15 USD per person, per day.
• Local Day Guide: $5-10 USD per person for a half-day tour is a thoughtful gesture.
• Driver: $3-5 USD per person, per day is appropriate for a dedicated driver.

Hotel Staff

• Porters: S/3-5 ($1-1.50) per bag.
• Housekeeping: S/5-10 ($1.50 – $2.50) per day, left on the pillow or a visible surface in the room.

Managing Your Money

Cash vs. Credit Cards

• Cash (Soles): Absolutely essential for taxis, local markets, small shops, street food, and tipping. Always aim to carry a mix of small bills and coins.
• Credit Cards (Visa/Mastercard): Widely accepted in larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and established shops in cities. American Express is less commonly accepted.

Before you depart, please notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to prevent your cards from being blocked for suspicious international activity.

ATMs (Cajeros Automáticos)

• Availability: ATMs are readily available in cities and larger towns. For reliability, look for major bank ATMs such as BCP, Scotiabank, BBVA, or Interbank.
• Withdrawal Fees: Be prepared to pay a local ATM fee, typically S/15-25 (~$5-7 USD), in addition to any fees charged by your home bank.
• Withdrawal Limits: Daily withdrawal limits are common, often around S/700 or $200 USD per transaction. You may need to make multiple withdrawals for larger amounts.
• Safety: For your security, use ATMs located inside bank branches or in well-lit, secure locations like pharmacies or large grocery stores. Always be aware of your surroundings.