Time Difference
Peru is five hours behind GMT and observes Peru Standard Time. There are no daylight savings in Peru so during the summer, there is a six hour time difference with the UK.
Money
The national currency is the Nuevo Sol. Note denominations are 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200. It’s worth carrying cash with you (although not in huge amounts) but ATMs are widely available throughout Peru. Visa is the most widely accepted credit and debit card, but you won’t be able to use them in the more remote areas. In cities and towns, many retailers will accept card. Banks are generally open from 09:30 to 18:00 and on Saturdays until noon.
Electricity and Plugs
The voltage is 220 volts and plugs are typically the two pronged plugs found in the USA, but it’s best to take a universal adapter.
Local Amenities
Most shops, stores and markets are open from 10:00 to 20:00. Banks are generally open from 09:30 to 18:00 and on Saturdays until noon.
Media
State media has a far smaller share of the audience in Peru than in many other countries, with privately owned institutions dominating the space. El Comercio, Gestion and Ojo are all daily newspapers from Lima that are very popular. The Peruvian Times is a good online outlet that has been producing news in English since 1908 so is a good option for those who want local news in English.
Peru has seven national television channels but many hotels will have access to cable TV and therefore a number of English channels.
Post
Post is expensive in Peru. Sending a letter to the UK will likely take seven to ten days. It’s advisable to post your letters at a designated post box rather than through your hotel, which may be even slower.
Phone
To phone Peru from the UK, add 00 51 to the front of the number you’re dialling (removing the first zero from the number you’re dialling). To call the UK from Peru, use 00 44 before dialling the number (again, without the first zero).
Beware phoning from your hotel because this will be two to three times more expensive than using a public phone box. In addition, after five rings, even if the recipient hasn’t picked up the phone, you will be charge a flat fee.
Internet and Mobile Coverage
Peru is one of the countries with the highest availability of 4G in Latin America, although it is patchy in more remote areas. Mobile phone coverage is pretty decent throughout Peru but you should check with your operator for more details.
Currency
PEN
