Languages
The official languages are Spanish (80% of the population), Quechua (Andean and highland regions), and Aymara (in the Puno high plateau). In addition, there are around 50 native languages.
It is possible to communicate in English with tourist services workers such as tourist guides, travel agency employees and 3 to 5-star hotels staff.
Currency and forms of payment
The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/.). The U.S. Dollar is accepted in some local businesses, restaurants and gas stations at the day’s exchange rate.
It is also possible to exchange foreign currency (US$ and Euros) at hotels, banks and authorized exchange houses.
Working hours for most banks and exchange houses are from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. Monday through Friday and Saturdays to 12:00 P.M.
The country’s main cities have ATMs that accept different kinds of debit and credit cards.
The most widely accepted credit cards are: American Express, VISA, Diners Club and MasterCard. Travelers checks have limitations, so we recommend consulting the establishment to see if they accept them or not before making purchases or ordering. For more information:
Visa: (01) 242-2975 | 108 - (001) 410 5819754 (from a landline)
Master Card: (01) 311-6000 | 108 - (001) 636 7227111 (from a landline)
American Express: (01) 221-8204 / 221-8207 | (001) 312 9353585 (reserve charges)
Diners Club: (01) 615-1111
Electricity
220 volts. Most 4 and 5-star hotels do have outlets equipped for 110 volts.
Telephone
International calls to Peru:
00-51-city code + phone number
Public telephones accept coins and phone cards that are sold in kiosks and supermarkets. Make certain that you are buying the phone card from the company you wish to use. It is possible to make collect calls from some public phone booths.
To get more information about telephone numbers, call 103 (service in Spanish).
Internet
Public internet booths are found in the country’s main cities.
Wireless internet service is provided in most 4 and 5-star hotels and in shopping centers.
Postal service
Post offices are located throughout all regions of the country. For more information, go to www.serpost.com.pe
