Money, payments and tipping

Currency: The Peruvian sol (PEN) is the official currency. US dollars are accepted in many hotels and travel agencies, but small purchases, markets and tips are paid in soles.

ATMs and cards: There are many ATMs in Cusco and Aguas Calientes. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and larger shops, sometimes with a small surcharge. On the treks themselves, you can only pay in cash.

Bills: Please bring clean, undamaged bills. Torn, marked or very worn notes – especially US dollars – are often not accepted.

Why tip? Our team receives fair wages, but a tip is a customary way to thank the guides, cooks, porters and horsemen for their hard work.

When: On the Inca Trail, the porters and cooks receive their tips on the last evening of the trek, as they do not accompany you to Machu Picchu. On the Lares and Salkantay treks, this happens after lunch on the third day. Guides are usually tipped after the Machu Picchu tour.

How: One person in the group usually collects the tips. Please bring Peruvian soles in small bills. The cook traditionally receives about 50% more than the porters and horsemen.

Guideline per trekker: Porters 80–100 soles, assistant cook 120 soles, cook 160 soles, guide 200–300 soles.