Location and geography: 

PERU is located on the central West coast of South America. This privileged location provides to this country an amazing diversity of landscapes. Peru is divided into 3 large regions: the coast (beaches bathed by the Pacific Ocean), the Andes (snow-capped mountains and fertile valleys), and the Amazon jungle.

Population and Language:

The Peruvian population is 26 millions inhabitants. The official language is Spanish, and in the highlands people speak also “Quechua” and "Aymara" (native languages). In the Peruvian Amazon jungle, there are other 55 native languages. Only few people speak English, hence it can be difficult to travel by yourself if you don't speak Spanish.

Currency:

The Peruvian currency is the “Nuevos Soles” (symbol: S/.) and the exchange rate is US$ 1.00 = S/ 3.00. It's very easy to exchange US dollars into the local currency, you can exchange any amount and no fee is charged. In many places as restaurants, travel agencies, hotels, and shops, you can pay with US dollars too. Indeed, don't be surprised that the prices at some shops are in US dollars. Other currencies as Euro or British Pounds can be exchange only at money exchange places in the big cities.

There are many ATMs in the big cities as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and Puno. Most of the ATMs take VISA, MasterCard and American Express Credit cards; and bank cards of the Electron, Cirrus and Maestro networks. In regard to traveller's checks, you have to cash it personally at the bank. The process takes 15 minutes and they will charge you a fee (1% to 3% of the amount you want to cash, it depends on the bank). If you cash them into the local currency, there is no fee, but the exchange rate is low. Very few shops take traveller's checks.

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Peru, especially outside of Lima and Cusco. Some stores and restaurants charge a fee if you pay with a credit card, so ask before pay.