CURRENCY

Peru's currency is the Nuevo Sol (S/.). One Nuevo Sol is broken down into 100 céntimos (cents). Banknotes currently circulating include 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10 Nuevos Soles, while there are coins for 1, 2 and 5 Nuevos Soles and 50, 20, 10 and 5 cents.

Currency exchange

There are no restrictions for changing currency in Peru. US dollars are commonly accepted in most hotels, stores and supermarkets in Lima and in the main cities in the country. Visitors are advised to exchange money in banks, because they offer more security and guarantees.

Avoid street moneychangers as they do not provide guarantees, despite of the fact that many of them are registered in municipalities in many districts of Lima.

Visitors should bear in mind that it is very difficult to change currencies other than the US dollar.

Taxes

Visitors coming to Peru should bear in mind that all goods and services are taxed an 18% (IGV). Restaurants and hotels add a 10% service fee.

By law, all traders have the obligation to show the client the final price, including taxes.

On the other hand, tour packages contracted outside the country are tax exempted.