Money Matters

CURRENCY:
Peru's currency is the Nuevo Sol, which 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. It is easier to exchange currency when your US Dollars are crisp and in pristine condition. You may also get a better exchange rate.

In preparation for your journey, you may want to calculate the exchange rate from the US dollar to local currencies. There are several websites that offer a conversion engine. You can also check the Wall Street Journal for currency rate information.
http://www.oanda.com/convert/classic
http://www.xe.net/ucc
http://www.x-rates.com
http://finance.yahoo.com/currency?u

CREDIT CARDS AND ATMS:
Some major credit cards are accepted in larger cities such as Diner's Club, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. However, it is advisable to carry some cash or travelers checks in US Dollars for purchases outside urban areas, and tipping. In Peru, the exchange of U.S. Dollars can be made at lodges and banks. You should not depend on your ATM card outside of the U.S. unless your bank advises otherwise. Local banks will give you notes in local currency. Keep your traveler's checks on you, along with other valuables, including passport, credit cards, or lock in the safety deposit boxes when provided. Cash works best in the marketplaces and with vendors along the road, where bargaining is expected.

TIPPING:
Tips for hotel and lodge personnel are usually included in your tour price. Tips to your driver and naturalist guides are at your discretion. A suggested detailed tipping chart will be sent to you with your final documents prior to departure.

SHOPPING:
Handcrafted items are very characteristic of Peru. Woven rugs, tapestries, alpaca sweaters, ponchos, jewelry and many other products using materials such as leather, copper, silver, wood, are made by native Indians using ancient methods. These items are displayed at the Indian markets and sold at very reasonable prices. Shopping centers and other stores are also found in the downtown and commercial areas. A note of warning: If you intend to ship any of your purchases back home to the United States from your journey, it is highly recommended that you negotiate the shipping charges with the local vendor/mailing service on premises ahead of time. Do not be sadly surprised when your shipment arrives in the U.S. with a large cost attached as sometimes shipping charges can cost more than the actual item. Save yourself a headache (and a hit to your wallet) and negotiate these charges when you send off your prized purchases.

DEPARTURE TAXES:
Information specific to your itinerary will be outlined in the final documents/instructions.