1. Currency Exchange Options in Peru
2. Using ATMs at Jorge Chávez International Airport
3. Alternatives to Currency Exchange
If you’re taking US dollars to Peru, you can exchange them for Nuevos soles when you arrive at Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport. There are three Interbank Casas de Cambio (Bureau de change/currency exchange) offices in the airport, located in national arrivals, international arrivals, and on the second-floor Peru Plaza.
If you just want to pay for a taxi to your hotel, you’ll find taxi services located within the airport that will accept payment in dollars. However, check the offered exchange rate before accepting a ride to avoid unexpected costs.
If you’ve decided not to take dollars to Peru and you aren’t already carrying Nuevos soles, you can withdraw money inside the airport (both nuevo soles and US$). GlobalNet ATMs are located throughout Jorge Chávez International Airport (GlobalNet ATMs are part of Interbank). Consequently, expect to pay a surcharge of approximately US$3 for ATM withdrawals.
According to the Global Net website, Global Net ATMs accept withdrawals using the following international cards: Visa, Visa Electron, Plus, MasterCard, Cirrus, JCB, Discover, and American Express. If you have any doubts, it is advisable to ask your local bank for further advice before your trip.
If you want to avoid the GlobalNet surcharge, you’ll find Banco de Crédito, Banco Continental, and Scotiabank ATMs on the second floor of the airport. These alternatives might offer more favorable withdrawal fees.
Moreover, if you want to avoid all financial considerations at the airport, consider reserving a hotel in Lima that offers a free airport pick-up service. This option enables your hotel to collect you upon arrival, allowing you to sort out any money issues once you have settled in comfortably.
