The official currencies of the following are:
- Peru: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
- Ecuador: United States Dollar (USD)
The current exchange rates (as of May 2026) are:
- $1 USD = approximately 3.70 PEN
- Ecuador uses the U.S. Dollar (USD), so no currency exchange is required for U.S. travelers.
You can exchange $US for Peruvian Soles (PEN) at your bank prior to departure.
You can also obtain local currency from ATMs throughout Peru, including in Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Arequipa, and other major tourist destinations. ATMs are widely available in Ecuador as well, dispensing U.S. Dollars.
Banks, hotels, airports, and authorized exchange offices (casas de cambio) in Peru may exchange $US for PEN, though exchange rates may vary. In Ecuador, U.S. Dollars are accepted everywhere, so no currency exchange is necessary.
Credit & debit cards: MasterCard and Visa credit cards are widely accepted throughout Peru and Ecuador, particularly at hotels, restaurants, larger shops, and tourist attractions. American Express may not be accepted by some merchants and should not be the only credit card you bring with you. Smaller businesses, local markets, and rural areas may prefer cash, especially in Peru.
Prior to departure, you may need to inform your bank and/or credit card company that you will be traveling to Peru and Ecuador. Make sure that you know your PIN for your card if you plan to withdraw cash from an ATM.
Please check with your bank for any foreign transaction fees that may be charged for using your card abroad. It is also advisable to carry a small amount of cash for purchases at local markets, small restaurants, tips, and other incidental expenses.