Peru's official name is the Republic of Peru. It was established as a republic in 1821 after gaining independence from Spain.
Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru. It is known for its rich history and colonial architecture.
Peru has a population of about 33 million people. The majority live in urban areas, with Lima being the most populous city.
Spanish is the official language. Quechua and Aymara are also recognized as official languages in regions where they are predominant.
Peru is known for its diverse geography, including the Andes mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and coastal plains. This diversity creates a range of climates and ecosystems.
Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located in the Andes mountains. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Peru has a mixed economy with significant contributions from mining, agriculture, and tourism. It is one of the world's largest producers of silver, copper, and gold.
The official currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN). One sol is divided into 100 céntimos.
Peru is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world, the Norte Chico civilization, dating back to 3500 BC. Later, it was the center of the powerful Inca Empire.
Peruvian cuisine is diverse and internationally renowned. Dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and ají de gallina are popular.
Peru declared independence from Spain on July 28, 1821. The declaration was made by General José de San Martín in Lima.
The Amazon River, one of the longest and largest rivers in the world, begins in Peru. It flows through the Amazon rainforest, the largest tropical rainforest on Earth.
Peru has a rich cultural heritage influenced by indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian cultures. This is reflected in its festivals, music, and art.
The Nazca Lines are a series of large ancient geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert. They were created by the Nazca culture between 500 BC and 500 AD.
Peru is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. It has numerous species of plants, animals, and birds, many of which are endemic.
The Andes Mountain run through Peru from north to south. They are the longest continental mountain range in the world.
Lake Titicaca, located on the border of Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world. It is also one of the largest lakes in South America.
Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, is a traditional Incan festival celebrated in Cusco. It honors the Incan sun god Inti.
Peru is rich in natural resources, including minerals, oil, and gas. Mining is a significant part of the economy.
Peru has a variety of climates, from tropical in the Amazon Basin to arid in the coastal desert. The highlands experience a temperate climate.
The Inca Trail is a famous hiking route that leads to Machu Picchu. It passes through stunning Andean landscapes and ancient Incan sites.
Education in Peru is compulsory and free for children aged 6 to 16. The system includes primary, secondary, and higher education.
Traditional Peruvian music includes Andean, Afro-Peruvian, and Criollo styles. Instruments like the charango, quena, and cajón are commonly used.
The country has a wide variety of flora and fauna, with unique species like the Andean condor and the vicuña. The Amazon rainforest is a hotspot for biodiversity.
Peru is a democratic republic with a president and a multi-party system. The president is elected for a five-year term.
Pisco is a type of brandy produced in Peru. It is the national drink and the key ingredient in the famous Pisco Sour cocktail.
Peruvian art is known for its pottery, textiles, and silverwork. Traditional crafts are often made using techniques passed down through generations.
Major cities in Peru are connected by an extensive road network. Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport is the main gateway for international flights.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Peru. The national team has competed in several FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Peru is a major exporter of agricultural products like coffee, asparagus, and avocados. The diverse climate allows for the cultivation of a wide range of crops.
The Nazca culture is known for its complex textiles and ceramics. They also created the famous Nazca Lines.
Peru has several active volcanoes, including Misti and Sabancaya. These volcanoes are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Peruvian cuisine is diverse due to its varied geography and cultural influences. It includes dishes from the coast, highlands, and jungle regions.
The historic center of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It features colonial-era architecture and important landmarks like the Plaza Mayor.
Peru is famous for its high-quality alpaca and vicuña wool textiles. Traditional weaving techniques are used to create colorful garments and blankets.
Peru is the birthplace of the potato. There are over 4,000 varieties of potatoes grown in the country.
Huacachina is a desert oasis located in the Ica region. It is a popular destination for sandboarding and dune buggy rides.
Traditional Peruvian clothing often includes bright colors and patterns. Ponchos, chullos (knitted hats), and polleras (skirts) are common.
Peru has a public healthcare system that provides services to citizens. Private healthcare facilities are also available in urban areas.
Peru has a literacy rate of around 94%. Education reforms have helped improve access to schooling.
The coastal region of Peru is one of the driest deserts in the world. The city of Lima is located in this arid zone.
The Marinera is a traditional Peruvian dance that represents courtship. It is often performed during festivals and competitions.
The Peruvian Amazon is one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. It covers more than half of Peru's territory.
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire. Today, it is a major tourist destination known for its archaeological sites and colonial architecture.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a region in the Andes. It was an important agricultural area for the Incas and is now a popular tourist destination.
The Uros people live on floating islands made of reeds on Lake Titicaca. These islands are handmade and have been inhabited for centuries.
The education system in Peru includes primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Universities in Peru offer a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
Traditional medicine is still practiced in many parts of Peru. It includes the use of medicinal plants and rituals passed down through generations.
The Peruvian Paso is a horse breed known for its smooth gait. It is a symbol of Peruvian culture and heritage.
Quechua is an indigenous language spoken by millions in Peru. It was the language of the Inca Empire.
Peru has many well-preserved examples of colonial architecture. The city of Arequipa is known for its baroque buildings made of white volcanic stone.
Mining is a major industry in Peru. The country is one of the world's top producers of silver, copper, and gold.
Many traditional festivals in Peru are linked to the agricultural calendar. They often involve music, dance, and offerings to the earth goddess Pachamama.
Peru's coastline offers excellent conditions for surfing. Popular surf spots include Mancora, Chicama, and Punta Hermosa.