The shell of Lobatus peruvianus is large, ranging from 60mm up to 210mm (21 cm). It was originally described by William John Swainson in 1823, with him stating that the shell is “heavy, with a depressed spire, and a prominent tip”.

Like other species in the same genus, Lobatus peruvianus’s outer lip is very pronounced and ornamental. The outside color of the shell falls into the tan and light brown range, sometimes also pink; while both the inner and outer lips are cream, pink, or white.