Cusco Money Currency
We understand that managing your currency in Cusco is an important part of planning your trip, and having clear information will help you travel with confidence and avoid unnecessary stress. In this guide, you will find essential details about prices, exchange rates, and how money works in the city so you can enjoy your stay with ease.
The official currency in Cusco is the Peruvian sol, which is used in almost all daily transactions. While some tourist businesses may accept US dollars, paying in soles is always more practical and usually more cost-effective. Having local currency available will make it much easier to move around, shop, and pay for everyday services.
Currency in Cusco Conversion Rate
Exchange rates for the currency in Cusco fluctuate daily depending on international markets, the type of provider you use, and whether you exchange money at a bank, exchange office, or ATM. Because of this, rates can vary slightly even within the same day, so it is always useful to compare options before exchanging larger amounts.
A more accurate and updated general reference is:
1 USD ≈ 3.6 – 3.8 PEN
1 EUR ≈ 3.9 – 4.2 PEN
1 GBP ≈ 4.5 – 4.9 PEN
Banks and official exchange houses usually offer more stable and fair rates, while airports and hotels tend to have less favorable exchange values. ATMs are also commonly used by travelers, although they may include additional fees depending on your home bank and card type.
These values are approximate and can change depending on the economic situation and service provider. For this reason, it is always recommended to check a live exchange rate before and during your trip to understand the real value of the currency in Cusco and manage your budget more effectively.
Average Price
On average, budget travelers in Cusco spend around S/120–S/180 per day, depending on their travel style, activities, and level of comfort. This makes the city relatively affordable compared to many other popular tourist destinations, especially when mixing local food and transport with occasional tourist experiences.
To give you a clearer idea of everyday costs, here are some typical prices in Cusco:
- Bottle of beer: S/8 – S/12
- Glass of wine: S/15 – S/20
- Large bottle of water: S/3 – S/5
- Cup of coffee: S/8 – S/12
- Set lunch menu (3 courses in local restaurants): S/10 – S/15
- Restaurant main course: S/25 – S/45
Prices can vary depending on location and type of establishment. Tourist areas such as Plaza de Armas tend to be more expensive, while local neighborhoods offer significantly better value for the same types of meals and services. Understanding these differences can help you manage your currency in Cusco more efficiently and make the most of your budget.
Where to draw money out
Accessing the currency in Cusco is easy, as ATMs are widely available throughout the city. You will find them in banks, shopping centers, supermarkets, and near Plaza de Armas.
However, ATM fees can vary depending on your home bank and the machine used. One of the most reliable options is Banco de la Nación, which is commonly used by locals and travelers and often offers lower fees. Other international bank ATMs such as Scotiabank or BCP are also widely available and considered safe.
For security, it is always recommended to use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers rather than standalone machines in isolated areas.
Accepted cards and currency in Cusco
Most businesses in Cusco accept major international cards such as Visa and Mastercard, and in some cases American Express. Hotels, restaurants, and tour companies are generally well equipped for card payments.
However, cash remains essential when using the currency in Cusco, especially in local markets, small shops, rural areas, and for transport services. Contactless payments are still not widely adopted, so relying only on cards is not practical.
US dollars can sometimes be used in tourist-focused establishments, but change is usually given in soles, and the exchange rate may not always be favorable. For this reason, the Peruvian sol remains the preferred and most convenient currency in Cusco for all daily transactions..
