Convert NZD to PEN Exchange Rate

PEN is the currency code for the Peruvian Sol, Peru's official currency. The symbol is "S/" (or sometimes "S/." or simply "S").

One Sol divides into 100 céntimos, though céntimos are rarely used in everyday transactions. The plural is "Soles" (pronounced "SO-less").

The Peruvian Sol has been Peru's currency since 1991, when it was introduced as the "Nuevo Sol" to replace the inti after a period of hyperinflation. In 2015, "Nuevo" was dropped and it became simply "Sol."

The name "Sol" means "sun" in Spanish, honoring the Inca sun god Inti and reflecting Peru's rich Inca heritage.

There is no such thing as a "Peruvian dollar" — this is a common misconception.

Peru's official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN), not a dollar currency.

The confusion likely comes from:

• US Dollars being accepted in tourist areas
• Historical currencies in Latin America
• Misunderstanding Peru's currency name
  
  Correct terminology:

✅ Peruvian Sol (PEN)
✅ Sol / Soles
❌ Peruvian dollar (doesn't exist)
❌ Peru dollar (doesn't exist)

If you're searching for "Peruvian dollars," you actually need Peruvian Soles — that's what Travel Money NZ sells for Peru travel.

Travel Money NZ has stores across New Zealand where you can buy Peruvian Soles in person.

We offer competitive NZD to PEN rates, our Price Beat Guarantee, means you'll always get a Peruvian Soles rate.

Skip the airport kiosks and poor exchange rates. Sort your Peru currency before you fly.

Tip: Peru is cash-dependent for markets, street food, taxis, and local experiences — bring substantial Soles before you go.

Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN), abbreviated as "S/" or "S/.".

The Sol is divided into 100 céntimos. Peru has used the Sol since 1991, originally called the "Nuevo Sol" and shortened to just "Sol" in 2015.

Important clarifications:

• Peru does NOT use "Peruvian dollars"
• The official currency is the Sol (plural: Soles)
• US Dollars accepted in tourist areas but change given in Soles
• Best to use Soles for everyday transactions

The Peruvian Sol uses the symbol S/ (or sometimes S/. or simply S).

You'll see it written after the amount, like: 50 S/ (fifty soles) or S/ 50.

The official currency code is PEN (used internationally and in financial contexts).

In everyday use in Peru, you'll most commonly see "S/" — for example, a menu might list "Ceviche S/ 25" (ceviche for 25 soles).

Cash is primary, cards are backup — Peru sits between fully cash-dependent and fully card-friendly.

Why cash is essential in Peru:

• Markets are cash-only (and Peru's markets are must-visit experiences)
• Street food vendors don't accept cards (and Peru's street food is incredible)
• Taxis and local transport require cash
• Tips expected in cash
• Public toilets charge 1 sol everywhere
• Small businesses prefer cash
• Better deals when paying cash in markets
  
  When cards work well:
• Tourist hotels and upscale accommodations
• Established restaurants in Lima, Cusco
• Shopping malls
• Tour operator bookings
• Train tickets to Machu Picchu
  
  Our recommendation:

1. Bring substantial Peruvian Sol cash — primary payment method
2. Keep credit/debit card as backup for hotels, upscale restaurants
3. Mix of small denominations (10, 20, 50 soles) for everyday use
4. Use ATMs in cities as backup — widely available but charge fees
   
   Peru rewards cash users with access to authentic markets, incredible street food, and local experiences cards simply can't access.

Absolutely. If you return from Peru with unused Peruvian Soles, bring them to any Travel Money NZ store and we'll buy them back at competitive PEN to NZD rates.

And if you originally purchased your Peruvian Soles from us, don't forget to bring your receipt — you may qualify for our Buy Back Bonus and get an even better exchange rate on your leftover soles.

No appointment needed — just walk in with your unused PEN and we'll convert it back to New Zealand Dollars on the spot.

Note: Many travelers return with some soles because Peru is so affordable — your currency stretches further than expected, especially if you embrace street food and local restaurants.