What is RUC

What is a RUC and Why It Matters When Booking Tours in Peru

If you’re planning a trip to Peru and booking tours, hotels, or transportation with a local company, you’ll often hear the term RUC. But what exactly is it, and why does it matter?


What Is a RUC?

RUC stands for Registro Único de Contribuyentes - or in English, Single Taxpayer Registry.

It’s a unique number issued by SUNAT (Peru’s National Superintendency of Customs and Tax Administration) to every legitimate business or independent professional operating in the country.

Think of it as Peru’s version of a business tax ID number - it officially identifies a company as registered and authorized to operate legally.


Why the RUC Is Important for Travelers

When booking any tour, transport, or service in Peru, the RUC gives you confidence that the company you’re dealing with is real and accountable. Here’s why it matters:


1. Proof of Legitimacy

A company with a valid RUC is recognized by the Peruvian government. This means they pay taxes and follow local regulations - not an informal or unregistered operator.

2. Consumer Protection

If something goes wrong (like a no-show or service issue), a company with a RUC can be formally reported or held responsible. Without it, there’s no legal trail.

3. Transparency and Trust

Sharing their RUC shows that an agency has nothing to hide. It’s a sign of professionalism and reliability - especially important in a country where travel scams can occur.

4. Easier to Verify

You can check any Peruvian company’s RUC for free on the SUNAT website to confirm its name, address, and active status. This helps you make safe, informed choices.


What to Avoid

Be cautious of any tour company or guide that:

Refuses to share their RUC number,

Asks for payments to personal accounts, or

Doesn’t have a business name that matches their RUC details.

These can be warning signs of an unregistered or temporary operator.


Traveler Tip

Before confirming any tour in Peru, ask for the agency’s RUC number - and check it on www.sunat.gob.pe.

It takes 30 seconds and can save you from big problems later.


Our Commitment

At Peru Travel Advice & Tours, we only feature agencies that have shared a valid, verified RUC number. Please check out our Trusted Agency Page for a list of verified operators 

This helps protect travelers while giving honest Peruvian businesses the visibility they deserve.



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