US Dollars and Euros can be changed in Lima without restrictions in hotels, banks, exchange offices or on the street. Some places don't accept US$ 100 bills. The safest way to change money is in banks and your hotel, but this will result in much lower rates compared to exchange offices and the money-changers on the street. If possible try to avoid changing money at the airport exchange office. The rate is one of the lowest we have discovered in Lima and we think that you shouldn't support this rip-off. When there is absolutely no other chance, just swap the absolute minimum. Taxis from the airport can be paid in US Dollars (again make sure to have enough small change for this purpose).
Exchange rates can be slightly lower on the weekends!
Good exchange rates can be achieved with money-changers on the street. But as with all "street deals" in Peru don't forget to bargain. Inform yourself about the current rate, otherwise you might be ripped-off. The exchange rates will not only vary depending on the amount you are willing to change, but as well on your appearance. If the money-changer thinks you haven´t got a clue, he will of course try to give you a much lower rate and make a good deal for himself. When changing money on the street, remember to keep a watchful eye on your surroundings.
Money Changers or Exchange Offices?
The money-changers (called Cambistas) can be found literally everywhere (where tourists are). Those ones officially registered with the municipality wear color coded vests (each district has a different color) with a "$" sign / EURO written on the back and have proper identification documents. Don't let anybody disturb your transaction. Don't get distracted by a little chat with the Cambistas. Always check for counterfeit money. Tourists are popular victims to circulate phony notes. Have a good look at the notes you receive, but check the coins as well. Count the money carefully. Some Cambistas might accidentally (?) give you a S/. 2 instead of a S/. 5 coin. Quickly the good exchange rate can turn to the opposite.
We recommend the exchange of currency in one of the many exchange offices (called Casa de Cambio). You'll get a fair rate, but again compare to find the best deal. Some places give better rates for Dollars than Euros and vice versa. In every good exchange office you can make the transaction at ease and comfort. You have the time and a place to carefully count and examine the money without anybody looking over your shoulder. We think this is worth more than gaining a few centimos more.
Comments
Some of the money-changes on the street (Cambistas) that are working directly for one of the exchange offices might also change this currency – Again check some of them to get an idea of the exchange rate.
You can also change at the Lima Airport, but there you’ll get the worst rate...
Thanks!
I am travelling to Peru later this year and will be visiting Lima as well as more rural places surfing. I am looking for advice on the best way of using money. Do I use my VISA (which I can top up the amount on over the internet), cash or a bit of both. I am conscious of carrying around a load of cash but at the same time dont want to be left with no money and no cash point or anywhere that accepts VISA.
I look forward to any advice you may have for me.
Dan
When I go back home, I'd like to change soles to Canadian dollars.
Is there any place that I can buy Canadian dollars?
Gracias,
Not sure about what amount you are talking, so it might be possible that these places don't have enough Canadian Dollars on hand and it might be necessary to ask around.
Are Peruvians shy about answering emails queries written in English ? I emailed different governments agencies, municipalities and companies and 95% of the time they do not respond ! I think it's common courtesy to answer even if they do so in Spanish ? Puzzled !
Thank you
Regarding travelers cheques: in Lima you can exchange them at main branches of banks and bigger casa de cambios. But be aware of bad exchange rates and fees. Best compare rates and fees to find the best deal.
Thank you for your frank input regarding Peruvians' attitude towards emails. I'm shocked to say the least!
I'm from the State of Hawaii and also a Government agency employee. Tourism is our biggest industry along with the US military. We bend over backwards to support our visitors by addressing all their concerns. We would never delete a genuine email even if it's written in another language. Besides, there a thing call " google translate " along with dozens of similar translation aids. English is an international language not Mongolian! I will be visiting Peru soon and hope to find Peruvians as cordial as we Americans (Hawaiians). I can get by in Spanish so taking your advice my future queries to them will be likewise. Thanks again and Aloha ! Donald.
will I have trouble changing a few 500 Euro banknotes in a casa de cambio (with trouble I mean that a) they are accepted b) at a rate not worse than other denominations
thanks in advance!
Thank you!
thx
Would you suggest converting Swiss francs with Cambistas / Casa de Cambio or would it be better to convert it into Dollars before coming and then convert the dollars to Soles in Lima . I would think its better to only loose out exchanging money once.
I am indian.can i exchange Indian Rupees in to Peruvian soles???