Peru Travel Guide — Currency, Costs & Culture (2026)

Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN), symbol: S/. Capital city: Lima. Region: South America. Primary language: Spanish / Quechua.

Government & practicalities: Head of state: Dina Boluarte (President). Government type: Presidential Republic. International calling code: +51. Drives on the Right. Power outlets: Type A/C, 220V. Internet domain: .pe.

What $100 USD typically buys in Peru

• 🥘 21–31 menú del día (set lunch) meals
• 🍺 47 local Cusqueña beers
• 🚕 62 taxi rides in Cusco
• 🏛 Admission to 12 archaeological sites
• 🛏 12 nights in a budget hostel

Daily travel budgets in Peru

Budget travelers: S/ 80–130/day (~$20–35 USD, hostels, set lunches). Mid-range travelers: S/ 200–400/day (~$55–110 USD, mid hotels, restaurants). Luxury travelers: S/ 600+/day (~$160+ USD, luxury lodges, private tours).

Typical local prices in PEN

• Menú del día (3-course lunch): S/ 10–20
• Ceviche at local restaurant: S/ 25–45
• Cusqueña beer: S/ 6–10
• Taxi ride in Cusco: S/ 5–8
• Budget hostel/night: S/ 25–50
• Mid-range hotel/night: S/ 150–350

Cultural tips for visitors to Peru

• 🏔 Altitude sickness (soroche) is real in Cusco and Machu Picchu (3,400m+). Rest on arrival, drink coca tea, and ascend gradually.
• 🙏 Greet with a kiss on the right cheek. Handshakes are also common.
• 📸 Always ask before photographing indigenous people in traditional dress — they may request a small payment.
• 🌿 Coca tea is legal in Peru and effective for altitude — don't carry coca leaves home as they're illegal in most countries.

Tipping customs in Peru

Tipping is appreciated. Leave 10% in restaurants. Tip tour guides S/ 20–50 per day. Tip porters on the Inca Trail S/ 30–50 per day. Round up taxi fares.

Useful phrases in Spanish / Quechua

• Hola (Oh-lah) — Hello
• Gracias (Grah-see-as) — Thank you
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? (Kwan-toh kwes-tah) — How much?
• La cuenta, por favor (Lah kwen-tah por fah-vor) — The bill, please
• ¡Ayuda! (Ah-yoo-dah) — Help!
• Allinta puriyki (Ah-yeen-tah poo-reek-ee) — Have a good journey (Quechua)

Traditional foods to try in Peru

• Ceviche (marinated raw fish)
• Lomo saltado (beef stir-fry)
• Aji de gallina (creamy chicken)
• Causa (potato dish)
• Anticuchos (grilled hearts)
• Pisco sour (cocktail)
• Quinoa dishes
• Chicha morada (purple corn drink)

Major landmarks and attractions in Peru

• Machu Picchu
• Cusco (Inca capital)
• Lake Titicaca
• Colca Canyon
• Nazca Lines
• Amazon rainforest (Madre de Dios)
• Lima's Larco Museum
• Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Peru

• Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
• City of Cusco
• Huascarán National Park
• Chan Chan Archaeological Zone
• Nazca Lines

Safety information for Peru

Peru is generally safe in tourist areas. Petty theft in Lima (Miraflores is safest) and Cusco is the main concern. Take licensed taxis, book Inca Trail through official agencies, and be cautious at night in quieter areas. The Amazon requires a guide.

Visa information for Peru

Many nationalities including US, UK, Australian, and EU citizens can visit Peru visa-free for up to 90 days. No advance visa required.

Emergency numbers in Peru

police: 105, ambulance: 106, fire: 116, tourist: 01 574-8000

Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and vary by city, season, and travel style. Exchange rates and costs are for informational purposes only. Always verify visa requirements and safety conditions with official sources before travel. Information current as of 2026.