What is the local currency in Peru?

Couldn't get any Soles. Had to get the good ol' USD.

Mick,

If you travel across the border into Ecuador, their currency IS the US dollar!
And as everyone else has said, the US dollar works pretty well in Peru, especially at businesses which are used to dealing with tourists.

If you need any help with novel, off the beaten track, "different" travel experiences, I can recommend a company in Cusco called Apus Peru. (Type into web browser for more info).

We used them a few years ago for a trek to Machu Pichu, staying at a couple of coffee farms along the way. They were great, and they have an Australian woman (or did have at the time) as their co-owner.
BTW, no kick-backs for me, just a satisfied customer!

Alan

Make sure that you get few U$A 1.00 notes, you will need them in the airport if you do not like that your luggage get "missing"
As soon as you are ready, get a taxi and chances are the some one will open the door for you and he will expect loose change for that.