If you’re planning your trip and wondering what type of plug is used in Peru, here’s a clear, complete guide so you don’t run out of battery—or damage your devices. Below, you’ll learn which plug types are used in the country, voltage and frequency details, when you need an adapter and when you need a voltage converter, plus what to expect in hotels and tourist areas. With this Peru plug guide, you’ll travel stress-free and stay connected anywhere.
What Type of Plugs Are Used in Peru?
Peru mainly uses Type A (two flat pins, common in North America and Japan) and Type C (two round pins, common across continental Europe). In some accommodations and businesses, you may also find Type B (two flat pins plus a grounding round pin), although it’s not standard nationwide.
If you’re traveling from the United States, Canada, or Japan with Type A/B plugs, most chargers will physically fit many Peruvian outlets—especially two-flat-pin ones. However, always check the voltage (explained below), since Peru’s electrical system differs from that of those countries.
If you’re coming from continental Europe with Type C plugs, compatibility is generally good, as Type C is common in Peru. Still, a universal adapter is useful in case you encounter a different socket (e.g., Type A) or if your device includes a grounded plug (three pins).
Travelers from the United Kingdom and Ireland (Type G), Australia and New Zealand (Type I), or Brazil (Type C/N) will only need the right adapter that supports at least Types A and C. A compact universal travel adapter solves nearly all situations and saves you from depending on hotel availability.
What Is the Voltage and Electrical Frequency in Peru?
Electricity in Peru runs at 220 volts and 60 hertz (Hz). This differs from the U.S. and Canada (110–120 V) but is similar to Europe (230 V).
Check the label on your charger:
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If it says “Input: 100–240 V ~ 50–60 Hz”, your device is dual voltage and works safely in Peru—just use an adapter if the plug shape differs.
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If it says only “110–120 V”, it’s single voltage and must not be connected to 220 V without a converter.
Be especially careful with high-power or heat-producing devices such as hair dryers, straighteners, and kettles. Many older models are not dual voltage, and converters for these appliances tend to be bulky, noisy, and prone to overheating. It’s safer to use the hotel’s hair dryer, buy a dual-voltage model, or purchase one made for 220 V.
In Andean and rural areas, occasional voltage spikes or drops can occur. If you carry sensitive electronics (laptops, cameras, hard drives), consider bringing a surge protector or travel power strip with a fuse. It’s also smart to charge your batteries at modern accommodations and carry a power bank for excursions.
Do I Need a Plug Adapter for Peru?
That depends on two factors: your plug shape and your device’s voltage compatibility.
Adapter vs. converter:
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An adapter only changes the plug shape so it fits a Peruvian outlet—it does not change voltage. If your device supports 100–240 V, an adapter is enough. That’s why chargers for smartphones, tablets, and most modern laptops work fine with a simple adapter.
- A converter (transformer) changes 220 V to 110–120 V for single-voltage devices. You’ll need one if you bring gadgets that don’t accept 220 V, such as some older shavers, irons, or dryers. Keep in mind they’re heavy and can overheat—carry one only if truly necessary.
Typical cases by origin:
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U.S./Canada/Japan (A/B, 110–120 V): Most phone and laptop chargers are 100–240 V, so you only need an adapter if the plug doesn’t fit. Older heat appliances (dryer, iron) are usually 110–120 V only and require a converter or 220 V version.
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Continental Europe (C/E/F, ~230 V): Nearly all chargers are 100–240 V, so no converter is needed in Peru—just an adapter if you find a Type A socket or use grounded E/F plugs.
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South America (varies by country, 220–230 V): Typically no converter needed; just bring an adapter if your plug type differs.
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UK/Ireland (G) and Australia/New Zealand (I): You’ll need a plug adapter. For 100–240 V chargers, a converter is generally unnecessary.
Plugs in Hotels and Tourist Areas of Peru
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Peru’s tourism infrastructure is wide and diverse. In Lima, especially in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, modern hotels and apartments are common; you’ll often find Type A/C outlets and, increasingly, USB ports near beds and desks. Still, since there’s no single national standard, bringing your own universal adapter is best.
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In Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), options range from boutique hotels to eco-lodges. The simpler ones may have fewer outlets or basic installations. A multi-USB charger and your adapter are invaluable here; during rainy season, keep your electronics in dry bags and avoid charging in humid areas.
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In destinations like Arequipa, Puno, or the Amazon (Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado), electricity availability depends on the property type. Some eco-lodges operate on generator schedules, meaning limited hours of power. Plan ahead: charge your power banks and batteries when electricity is available, and avoid high-power devices when supply is restricted.
- Always ask reception if they can lend adapters—don’t rely on USB ports from TVs, which usually provide low power. Avoid cheap multi-plugs; if you use one, ensure it’s compact and surge-protected.
Conclusion
In short: in Peru, the most common plug types are A and C (sometimes B). The electrical system runs on 220 V / 60 Hz. The key difference is that an adapter changes plug shape, while a converter changes voltage. If your device reads 100–240 V, an adapter is enough; if it’s 110–120 V, use a converter or a 220-V-compatible version.
In major-city hotels, charging is usually easy—but adapters aren’t always provided, so bring your own. If you’ll be in mountain regions, consider a surge protector to safeguard your devices.
Ready to travel fully charged and without surprises?
At Guru Explorers, we organize your itinerary to the best destinations in Peru with private and shared tours, plus tailored recommendations. To get inspired and start planning, check out our Peru tourist destinations.
Contact us today and let’s plan your next adventure—we’ll handle every detail so you can focus on enjoying the journey!
