When travelling in Peru you need cash. Cards are useful and accepted in large cities like Lima but much of the retail and tourist economy consists of small businesses that often only accept cash. US Dollars are sometimes accepted in Peru (and are a useful back up currency) but this is not the norm and most goods are priced in the local currency “Sols” which is the main currency used.
The city centres have ATMs where you can get cash but you will likely incur significant local fees at ATM’s (typically 25 Sol which is approximately £5) plus charges from your UK bank. Our strong recommendation is to buy currency before you travel as this will be much cheaper than using an ATM on arrival.
A highlight of most visits to Peru is Machu Picchu which is one of the 7 wonders of the world. The Incas were famed for their skill as goldsmiths but visiting modern day Peru you need cash to take advantage of the many market stalls found at the base camp area of Machu Picchu which is full of interesting places to shop.
If travelling on an organised tour, you will find that there is a veritable army of tour guides, drivers, boat crews and hotel staff that appreciate and often expect cash tips in return for the services they provide. Even where restaurants accept card payments, they do not always have the facility to accept tips via card so cash is again useful for completing everyday transactions.
In tourist areas you will find street traders offering to sell alpaca knitwear, local art and services such as shoe shining. Beware of shoe shine boys offering to clean your shoes for just 1 sol. You can get an excellent shoe shine but may find that by the time they have added polish and other extras the price can increase 20-fold. Always agree an upfront price if you have your shoes cleaned !
Mobile phone roaming charges can really stack up in South America so consider downloading an e-sim package before your travel. I found Holafly worked really well in Peru and Ecuador and it has fixed price packages to suit most pockets.
Peru is a beautiful country and well worth the journey and is very good value for money. If you like an active holiday this is certainly a destination to consider.
Mark Austin, Best Travel Money Director and Co-Founder
Oct 2025
Over the past 30 days, the pound has weakened against the Peruvian Sol. The best Peruvian Sol rate fell by 0.98%, from 4.2894 on 15 October 2026 to 4.2473 on 13 November 2026.
This means £1 buys less Peruvian Sol today than it did at the start of the period.
On a £750 purchase, you would receive about S/3,185.48 today, around S/31.57 less than on 15 October 2026.
Peruvian Sol rates moved around during the month, ranging from 4.2473 on 13 November to 4.3792 on 2 November. That shows why checking live rates before you buy can make a real difference.
Last refreshed at 12:00 on 13 November 2026.