Known as the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, it is home to iconic landmarks such as Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Beyond its archaeological treasures, Peru boasts a diverse landscape—from the towering Andes Mountains and the lush Amazon rainforest to the arid coastal deserts and pristine beaches.

With a rich cultural tapestry shaped by indigenous traditions and Spanish influences, Peru is also a paradise for food lovers, renowned globally for its award-winning cuisine, including ceviche, lomo saltado, and pachamanca. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or a culinary explorer, Peru promises unforgettable experiences that will leave you wanting more. 

Continue reading to know everything about this amazing country called Peru!

History and Archaeology: Beyond the Inca Empire

When people think of Peru, Machu Picchu and the Inca Empire often come to mind. While the Incas are undeniably a cornerstone of Peru’s identity, they were merely the tip of the iceberg in the country’s rich history. Before the Incas rose to power, numerous advanced civilizations thrived, each leaving behind remarkable legacies. Among them were the Caral, Chavín, Paracas, Nazca, Moche, Wari, Lambayeque, Chimu, and Tiwanaku cultures. These societies laid the foundation for the Incas and contributed significantly to Peru’s cultural and historical heritage.

Peru is also a treasure trove of archaeological sites that reflect its complex past. Beyond Machu Picchu, visitors can explore other fascinating locations like the Nazca Lines, the adobe city of Chan Chan, the ancient temple of Chavín de Huántar, the Royal Tombs of Sipán, the Sacred Valley, Kuelap (the fortress of the Chachapoya), and the enigmatic ruins of Sacsayhuamán. Each site unveils a different chapter of Peru’s long and fascinating story.

Geography of Peru: A Land of Diversity

Peru, covering an area of 1,285,215 square kilometers, is the third-largest country in South America, following Brazil and Argentina. It shares borders with Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, Chile to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
The country's geography is remarkably diverse and can be divided into three main regions:
•    The Coast: A narrow, arid strip along the Pacific, home to major cities like Lima and Trujillo.
•    The Andes: A rugged mountain range with snow-capped peaks, fertile valleys, and high plateaus.
•    The Amazon: A vast tropical rainforest covering over 60% of Peru’s territory, rich in biodiversity and natural resources.
To put its size into perspective, Peru is approximately five times larger than the United Kingdom, which spans about 243,610 square kilometers.
This geographic variety not only offers breathtaking landscapes but also shapes the country’s diverse climates and cultures, making Peru a truly unique and fascinating destination.

The Climate in Peru: A Tale of Contrasts

Peru's climate can generally be divided into two main seasons: wet and dry. Along the desert coast, you'd expect an arid climate. Summer runs from January to March, bringing warmer temperatures. In Lima, however, the weather is famously gray and overcast, often accompanied in Winter by a light mist called “garúa.” Further south, around Nazca, the elevation increases, and the skies are sunny and clear for most of the year, making it hot and bright year-round.
In the Andes and Amazon, the wet and dry seasons are more pronounced. The dry season (May to September) is considered their "summer," with sunny days and cooler nights. The wet season (October to April), often referred to as "winter," brings heavier rains and lush landscapes. While the naming of seasons may seem confusing, it's part of Peru's unique charm—you’ll only truly understand it once you experience it!

Government in Peru: A Democratic Structure

Peru is a democratic republic where presidents typically serve a five-year term, though consecutive terms are not allowed. However, political instability has marked recent years, with six presidents taking office since 2016. The president governs alongside a cabinet of 12 members, who oversee various aspects of the country’s administration.
Voting is mandatory for citizens aged 18 to 60, emphasizing active participation in the nation’s democratic process.
Politically, Peru is divided into 24 departments (or states), further split into 150 provinces and subdivided into 1,322 districts, reflecting a well-organized system of regional and local governance.
 

Population and People of Peru

Peru has a population of approximately 33 million people, with Lima, the capital, being the most populated city, followed by Arequipa and Trujillo. Nearly half of the population resides in the Andean region, while the rest is distributed along the coast and the Amazon.
The population is diverse: about 50% identify as Indigenous, primarily from Andean communities, while a further third are Mestizo (mixed Indigenous and European heritage). Additionally, 12% identify as White, and about 5% are of African descent, mostly living along the coast. Peru also has a small but notable Asian population, whose influence is particularly visible in the country's cuisine.
 

Religion in Peru: A Blend of Faiths

As in much of Latin America, the majority of Peruvians are Roman Catholic, a faith introduced during Spanish colonization. Peru is home to a remarkable number of churches, with some dating back to the colonial era. The city of Ayacucho, famously known as the “City of Churches,” boasts an impressive concentration of these historical religious sites.
While Catholicism dominates, other religions are also practiced in Peru. In many Indigenous communities, Catholic traditions are often blended with traditional beliefs, creating a unique spiritual fusion that reflects the country's rich cultural heritage.
 

Holidays and Festivals in Peru

In Peru, most holidays are tied to the Roman Catholic liturgical calendar, celebrating various saints. However, many of these celebrations also have roots in traditional Indigenous customs, creating a fusion of cultural and religious practices. Other holidays are related to historical and political events, such as Independence Day on July 28th.
During these holidays, it is common to see feasts, music, dancing, drinking, rituals, and processions. Each region may celebrate in its own distinct way, adding local flavors to the festivities.
There are both national holidays and city-specific holidays. On national holidays, public institutions, including banks, may be closed. Public transportation can be crowded, so it’s a good idea to book ahead if you’re traveling during these times.
For more detailed information on Peru's holidays and festivals, check out this link
 

Language in Peru: A Multilingual Society

The most widely spoken language in Peru is Spanish, which is used by the majority of the population. However, in some regions of the Andes, Quechua and Aymara are also commonly spoken, reflecting the country's Indigenous heritage. For some Indigenous people, Spanish is their second language, with their first language being Quechua, Aymara, or another local language.
Don't worry, though—English is often spoken in major tourist destinations, including hotels, airports, travel agencies, and by many tour guides. However, outside of these areas, you may find that English is less common.
It’s highly recommended to learn some Spanish if possible, as it will open doors to the rest of Latin America. But if learning the language isn't an option, having a dictionary or online translator can be very helpful. Even learning a few basic phrases can enrich your experience and help you connect more deeply with Peru's culture.

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Our tours are designed to provide enriching moments, praised by past travelers for their depth and authenticity. By choosing us, you’re not just exploring Peru—you’re supporting a company that values excellence, sustainability, and meaningful connections. Let us guide you through a journey that will leave you with lasting memories and a positive impact. We can’t wait to welcome you to Peru and make your adventure extraordinary.