Overview of Peru

Location

Peru is in the west of South America. To the north, it borders Ecuador and Colombia. To the east, it borders Brazil; to the southeast, it borders Bolivia; to the south, it borders Chile; and to the west, it borders the Pacific Ocean. Without a doubt, it is a unique location that gives Peru an impressive geographical diversity.

Coordinates

The geographic coordinates of Peru are:

Latitude: 9.19° S Longitude: 75.0152°

Geography

The geography of Peru is incredibly diverse thanks to the typical characteristics of the Andes Mountains, the plains of the coastal, and the magnificent vegetation that distinguishes the Amazon rainforest.

Climate

If we consider the geographic diversity of this enigmatic country, we will know that the climate also varies according to each region. The Andes region has a temperate climate, the coastal region is arid, and the Amazon region is tropical.

Currency of Peru

The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian sol (PEN).

Regions of Peru

Peru is divided into 24 departments and one constitutional province (Callao), each with unique characteristics. They are grouped into three natural regions.

Coastal Region

Peru's coastal region stretches along the Pacific Ocean and is the most populated area in the country. It is home to important cities, such as Lima, the capital.

Tumbes

Tumbes is the northernmost region on the Peruvian coast. It is known for its beautiful beaches, mangroves, and the Cerros de Amotape National Park, where you can explore the region's biodiversity.

Piura

Piura is famous for its beaches, such as Máncora and Los Órganos, which are popular destinations for surfing and relaxing. It is also known for its colonial history and delicious seafood.

Lambayeque

Lambayeque is home to important archaeological sites, such as the pyramids of Túcume and the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipán, where the treasures of the Lord of Sipán are on display.

La Libertad

It is home to Trujillo, a colonial city known for its architecture, and the archaeological site of Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world.

Áncash

Áncash is known for the Cordillera Blanca and Huascarán National Park, where towering mountains such as Huascarán, the highest peak in Peru, are located. It is an ideal place for hiking and climbing.

Lima

Lima is the capital of Peru and a vibrant and dynamic city that combines its rich colonial history with a modern metropolis. Founded by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima has been the political, economic, and cultural center of Peru ever since. The city is known for its colonial architecture, world-class museums, delicious cuisine, and lively nightlife. In addition, this city is an important financial center and one of the main tourist destinations in South America.

The most famous places to visit in Lima are:

Plaza Mayor: Also known as Plaza de Armas, it is the historic heart of Lima, surrounded by emblematic buildings such as the Government Palace, the Lima Cathedral, and the Archbishop's Palace. In Lima, you can stroll through the square, take photos, visit the historic buildings, and enjoy great cultural events. Lima Cathedral This impressive cathedral, dating back to the 16th century, is located in the Plaza Mayor. It is a living demonstration of what Spanish colonial architecture was like. When you visit Peru, an attraction that cannot be missed is exploring the interior of this cathedral. Also, remember to visit the religious art museum and admire the tomb of Francisco Pizarro.

Larco Museum: If you want to learn about the history of Lima and Peru, your obligatory visit should be to the Larco Museum. This private museum houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art. It is also very famous for its collection of erotic ceramics and its spectacular garden. You can tour the exhibitions, learn about Peru's ancient cultures, and enjoy the museum's garden.

Magic Water Circuit: This park has a series of interactive fountains and light and water shows. It is one of the main tourist attractions in Lima. You can walk through the park, enjoy the nightly light and water shows, and participate in the interactive activities offered by this park. Lima offers a unique mix of history, culture, and modernity. We hope this information helps you and encourages you to explore this fascinating city more!

Ica

Ica, founded in 1563 by the Spaniard Jerónimo Luis de Cabrera, was the cradle of ancient civilizations such as the Paracas and the Nazca, known for their impressive geoglyphs. During the colonial era, Ica became an important agricultural and wine-making center. This city is part of a desert region well known for its vineyards and oases worth visiting.

The most famous places to visit in Ica are:

Huacachina: It is an oasis in the middle of the desert that has become one of the most iconic places in the city of Ica. In this desert, you can surround yourself with dunes, and if you like, you can practice sandboarding and go on buggy rides.

Nazca Lines: Nothing is more striking for any human being on earth than the mystery hidden in the figures on the ground that form the Nazca lines. Without a doubt, they are one of the greatest archaeological enigmas in the world. Although, if you want to see them better you will have to fly over the place, do not worry, there are tourist flights for this purpose.

Ballestas Islands: They are a group of small rocky islets located near the city of Pisco, in the Ica region, known for their impressive marine fauna, and it is also the perfect place for ecotourism such as:

The most common way to visit the Ballestas Islands is through boat tours that depart from Paracas. These tours usually have an estimated time that allows you to contemplate the marine fauna in amazement. Don't be surprised if you see sea lions approaching the boats during your boat tour, putting on shows for the tourists present.

Paracas National Reserve: This protected area consists of deserts, beaches, and marine areas that offer a unique ecosystem worth exploring. It is the best place to observe the area's biodiversity and enjoy nature. Pisco and Wine Cellars: How sad it would be to go to Ica and not take a tour that takes you to see the distilleries and vineyards of ancestral origin in the region. This experience will teach you great lessons about the entire process of making exquisite wine.

Arequipa

This majestic city was founded on August 15, 1540, by the Spanish conqueror Garcí Manuel de Carbajal. Arequipa has witnessed numerous historical events, including the fight for Peru's independence. Its historic center, with its colonial buildings built in sillar (a white volcanic stone), has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

This city is also known as the "White City" for its sillar buildings. If we had to define Arequipa's culture, it is a mixture of indigenous and Spanish traditions. The city is famous for its colonial architecture, its gastronomy, and its festivities. Here we will show you some of its attractions:

Architecture: The Arequipa Cathedral, the Monastery of Santa Catalina, and the Church of the Company are impressive examples of colonial architecture.

Gastronomy: Typical dishes such as rocoto relleno, adobo, and chupe de Camarones should not be missed. Festivities: The Fiesta de la Virgen de Chapi and the anniversary of Arequipa's founding are essential celebrations. Arequipa offers you a variety of tourist attractions for all tastes:

Historic Center: Walking through its streets and squares is an experience you will remember for a lifetime. Colca Canyon: One of the deepest canyons in the world, ideal for hiking and condor watching.

Misti Volcano: You can climb this imposing volcano to get panoramic views of the city. In addition to this, the Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes are also perfect options for mountaineering lovers.

Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve: Here, you will find a protected area that is home to an enormous diversity of fauna, including vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas. You will also enjoy unique natural landscapes, such as the Salinas Lagoon, where you can observe flamingos and other aquatic birds. Santa Catalina Monastery: This convent looks like a small city within the city, with narrow and colorful streets.

Valley of the Volcanoes: Another majestic and unique place is the geological region, with more than 80 small volcanoes and cinder cones that offer an impressive lunar landscape. It is a little-visited area, but it is worth knowing, especially if you are a lover of geology and nature.

Trujillo

Trujillo was founded in 1534 by the Spanish conquistador Diego de Almagro. This city played an important role during the colonial era and was a center of resistance during Peru's independence.

Trujillo is also known for its proximity to the ancient city of Chan Chan, the capital of the Chimú Kingdom, the largest adobe city in America. Trujillo is famous for its vibrant culture. It is known as the "Capital of Spring" due to its pleasant climate and its flower festivals. The city is also the center of the marinara, a traditional Peruvian dance. Every year, this city hosts the National Marinera Competition, which attracts dancers from all over the country. In terms of literature and art, Trujillo is recognized as a city of intellectuals and artists. It is the birthplace of critical Peruvian writers and poets, such as César Vallejo, who is one of the most important and influential poets in Spanish-language literature. This city also has several museums and art galleries, such as the Archaeology Museum of the National University of Trujillo, which displays pieces from the region's pre-Columbian cultures. Among the main tourist attractions in Trujillo are:

Chan Chan: The largest adobe city in the world, which is of great archaeological value and belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Huacas del Sol y de la Luna: These are two large adobe pyramids built by the Moche civilization.

Plaza de Armas: It is in the heart of the city, surrounded by colonial buildings and the Trujillo Cathedral. Trujillo is a city that combines history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for all visitors.

Moquegua

Moquegua is a lesser-known wine region that offers stunning scenery and a rich colonial history. The Ubinas volcano, the most active in Peru, is also located here.

Tacna

Tacna, in the far south of Peru, is a city with a rich history linked to the War of the Pacific. It is known for its shopping areas and its cuisine, especially the spicy Tacna style.

Andean Region

The Andean region is Peru's cultural heart and home to the Andes, the longest mountain range in the world. Some of the most important archaeological sites, including Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, are located here.

Cajamarca

Cajamarca is famous for its hot springs and its crucial role in Inca history. It is the place where Atahualpa, the last Inca emperor, was captured by the Spanish.

Huánuco

Huánuco is a region known for its pre-Inca archaeological sites, such as Kotosh, and for its pleasant climate, often considered one of the best in Peru.

Pasco

Pasco is a mining region and one of the highest areas in Peru. It is home to stunning Andean landscapes and the Bombón Plateau, an extensive high-altitude plain.

Junín

Junín is famous for Laguna de Paca and the Bombón Plateau. Additionally, this region played an important role in Peru's independence, being the site of the Battle of Junín.

Huancavelica

Huancavelica is known for its rich mining history and for being one of the most traditional regions in Peru. Its mountainous landscapes and communities keep ancestral customs alive.

Ayacucho

Ayacucho is famous for its colonial architecture and its vibrant Holy Week, one of the most important and colorful religious celebrations in Peru. It was also a key center during the country's War of Independence.

Apurímac

Apurímac is home to deep canyons and is the gateway to Choquequirao, an archaeological site similar to Machu Picchu, but much less visited, offering a more intimate experience with Incan history.

Cusco

Visiting Peru requires a visit to Cusco because it was the capital of the Inca Empire, the largest empire in pre-Columbian America, founded in the 12th century; the city was the political, military, and cultural center of the Incas. After the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, Cusco became an important colonial city. This city is the gateway to Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

The Plaza de Armas: This is in the heart of the city, surrounded by churches and colonial buildings.

Sacsayhuamán: This impressive Inca fortress is located in the hills above Cusco.

Qorikancha: The Inca temple was dedicated to the sun god and was later converted into a convent by the Spanish.

The Sacred Valley: This is a nearby area loaded with numerous archaeological sites and traditional villages that evoke the life of the Incas in the past. But this dream city not only has sites to visit but also many adventures to enjoy, for example:

Machu Picchu: Located in the Cusco region, about 2,430 meters above sea level, in the Andes Mountain range. Mountains surround the citadel and offer stunning panoramic views.

The most common way to get to Machu Picchu is by taking a train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to the town of Aguas Calientes and then a bus to the site's entrance. It is also possible to get there on foot via the famous Inca Trail, a several-day hiking route.

Although Machu Picchu is the best-known site, there are other things you will find in Cusco. This city has many historical and archaeological sites that you must take advantage of.

Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century during the height of the Inca Empire. It is believed to have been a holiday residence for the Inca emperor Pachacútec. The citadel was abandoned during the Spanish conquest and remained hidden until its rediscovery by the explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.

The site is divided into two main areas: the agricultural zone, with cultivation terraces, and the urban zone, with temples, plazas, and residences. Some of the most notable buildings include:

• The Intihuatana: A ritual stone believed to have functioned as a sundial.
• The Temple of the Three Windows: This building consists of three trapezoidal windows that offer spectacular views.

Outdoor Activities

• Trekking: There are several hiking routes, such as the Inca Trail and the hike to the Mountain of Seven Colors (Vinicunca).
• Horseback Riding: Explore the surroundings of Cusco and the Sacred Valley on horseback.
• Mountain Biking: There are exciting routes for cycling lovers.

Cultural Experiences

• Participate in Local Festivals: Such as the Inti Raymi in June and Holy Week.
• Visiting Museums: The Inka Museum and the Pre-Columbian Art Museum are excellent options.
• Enjoying Local Gastronomy: Cusco also offers delicious gastronomy, with typical dishes such as ceviche, cuy (guinea pig), pachamanca, and chicha morada (a drink made from purple corn).

Shopping and Crafts

• Local Markets: The San Pedro Market is a good place to buy crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
• Craft Workshops: Participate in workshops to learn about the making of textiles and ceramics.

Cusco is the perfect place for you to enjoy your visit to Peru to the fullest. You will be amazed at how much you can learn about the culture in this city and how intensely you can live each experience it offers.

Puno

Puno has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times. It was an essential center of the Tiahuanaco culture and, later, the Inca culture. During the colonial era, Puno became a mining center due to the exploitation of silver in the region.

Puno is known as the "Folk Capital of Peru" due to its vibrant tradition of music and dance. The city is famous for its festivals, especially the Fiesta de la Candelaria, which is celebrated in February and is one of the largest and most colorful festivities in South America. During this festival, thousands of dancers and musicians participate in parades and competitions.

Puno is a beautiful tourist destination for several reasons that we will tell you here:

Puno City: Most visitors to Lake Titicaca start in Puno, which has a colonial cathedral, plazas, and markets where they can appreciate local crafts. The Carlos Dreyer Museum, which exhibits pre-Columbian and colonial artifacts, is another point of interest.

Lake Titicaca: This is the highest navigable lake in the world and is home to the floating Uros islands, which are made of totora reeds. Visitors can take boat trips to explore these islands and learn about the Uros culture.

Taquile Island: This island is well known for its traditional textiles, which UNESCO declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Quechua community on this island provides hospitality to all visitors, making this place ideal for experiencing rural life in the Andes.

Chullpas de Sillustani: This archaeological site with impressive pre-Incan funerary towers called chullpas is an example of the belief system that revolved around death in pre-Columbian times.

Puno Cathedral: This colonial church located in the Plaza de Armas of Puno will surprise you with its architectural beauty.

Gastronomy

• Puno's gastronomy is very rich and varied, with Andean and highland influences. Here, we will introduce you to some of its typical dishes:
• Chairo: This is a thick soup made with lamb, potatoes, chuño (dehydrated potato), corn, and vegetables.
• Trout: This fresh fish from Lake Titicaca can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, fried, or in ceviche.
• Pesque de Quinua: This creamy dish is made with quinoa, milk, and cheese.
• Kankacho: This typical meal consists of oven-roasted lamb marinated with local spices and herbs.
• Huatia: This dish, as simple as cooking potatoes in an earthen oven, accompanied by cheese and chili, will let you know that there is much richness in simplicity.

In addition, you must try traditional drinks such as chicha de jora (a fermented corn drink) and mate de coca (infusion of coca leaves).

Amazon Region

Peru's Amazon region is a vast area of rainforest that covers more than half of the country. It is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

Loreto

Loreto is the largest region in Peru and is completely covered by the Amazon rainforest. The city of Iquitos is its capital and the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon. Iquitos is only accessible by plane or boat, which gives it a unique charm.

Amazonas

The Amazonas region has been inhabited since pre-Columbian times by various cultures, including the Chachapoyas, known as the "Warriors of the Clouds." This civilization left behind impressive archaeological remains, such as the Kuélap fortress. During the colonial era, Amazonas was an important center of indigenous resistance.

Amazonas's culture is a mix of Indigenous and Spanish traditions. Local festivals, such as the Fiesta de San Juan and the Fiesta de la Virgen de Asunta, are important celebrations that reflect this rich cultural heritage. This region is also known for its crafts, especially textiles and ceramics.

Among the main tourist attractions, you can visit in Amazonas are:

• Kuélap: This is majestic stone fortress built by the Chachapoyas, located on top of a mountain. It is also known as the Machu Picchu of the North.
• Gocta Waterfall: This is one of the highest waterfalls in the world, with a drop of 771 meters.
• Revash: Complex mausoleums built into cliffs, which offer you a unique view of the funerary practices of the ancient inhabitants.
• Leymebamba Museum: Here, you will find a collection of mummies and artifacts from the Chachapoya culture.
• Laguna de los Cóndores: This archaeological and natural site has ancient mummies and artifacts that bear witness to the lifestyle of the pre-Columbian era.

Amazonas is also a paradise for nature lovers. It's incredible biodiversity includes a variety of unique flora and fauna. Hiking through the jungle and visiting nature reserves are just some of the activities you can enjoy.

Amazonas will captivate you from the first moment. Its mix of pre-Columbian culture and jungle elements makes it an enigmatic and charming region.

Iquitos

This city was founded in 1757 as a Jesuit mission. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Iquitos experienced an economic boom due to the exploitation of rubber. This period attracted many immigrants and left a significant mark on the city's architecture and culture.

Iquitos is a melting pot of cultures with indigenous, European, and mestizo influences. Several festivities are celebrated here, such as the Fiesta de San Juan in June, which is one of the most important and is full of music, dance, and typical cuisine. Also, in Iquitos, local markets offer a variety of handicrafts, including textiles, jewelry, and objects made from natural materials from the jungle.

Iquitos offers you an endless number of tourist attractions that adapt to each person; choose the one you like the most:

• Amazon River: Iquitos is one of the few cities in the world that is not accessible by road; it can only be reached by plane or boat. You will be able to get to know the Amazon River, one of the main attractions that also allows you to go on a cruise or join excursions.
• Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: This reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Peru. It is ideal for ecotourism, and you can observe a great diversity of flora and fauna here.
• Mercado de Belén: This is a floating market where you can find a great variety of local products and experience the daily life of the inhabitants of Iquitos.
• Casa de Fierro: This historic building, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is a true testimony to the rubber boom in this city.

Among the adventure activities that Iquitos has for you are:

Canoeing: 

Navigate the rivers and tributaries of the Amazon and live a unique experience where you explore the jungle and observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

• Trekking: Numerous hiking trails take you through the dense jungle, allowing you to discover the local flora and fauna. You can even visit indigenous tribes.
• Canopy: Glide through the treetops and enjoy panoramic views of the jungle.
• Cycling: Explore and tour the landscapes of Iquitos by bike and travel trails that show you pictorial images of local towns.

San Martín

San Martín is known for its biodiversity, impressive waterfalls such as Gocta, and the city of Tarapoto, a popular destination for ecotourism lovers.

Ucayali

Ucayali is an Amazonian region that offers authentic jungle experiences. Its capital, Pucallpa, is an important commercial and cultural center in the Amazon.

Madre de Dios

Madre de Dios is a region in the southeast of Peru known as the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. This region is rich in biodiversity, with vast areas of rainforest, meandering rivers, and a culture deeply connected to its natural environment. Below, I will give you a historical and cultural overview of this city and its tourist attractions.

In the 16th century, Spanish expeditions explored the Madre de Dios jungle in search of riches such as gold and mythical lost cities such as El Dorado. However, colonization of the region was complex due to the geography and resistance of indigenous peoples.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Madre de Dios experienced an economic boom with rubber exploitation and, later, gold mining. The latter resource remains an essential economic activity in the region, although it has generated significant environmental challenges.

This city is one of the most important destinations for ecotourism in Peru. Here are some of the main tourist attractions:

Manu National Park: This park is one of the largest and most biodiverse in the world. It is home to thousands of species of plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish. Manu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers an immersive experience in the virgin jungle. A visit to the park includes wildlife observation, jungle walks, and visits to native communities.

Tambopata National Reserve: Located near the city of Puerto Maldonado, this reserve is famous for its incredible biodiversity. Here, you can observe exotic birds such as macaws, monkeys, alligators, and a wide variety of butterflies. A visit to the Macaw Clay Lick, where these birds congregate to consume mineral-rich clay, is a unique spectacle.

• Sandoval Lake: This lake is one of the most popular destinations within the Tambopata National Reserve. It offers you the opportunity to see a wide range of fauna, including alligators, giant otters, and a variety of birds. Access to the lake is via a hike through the jungle, followed by a boat ride.

Taricaya Wildlife Rescue Center

This center works on the rehabilitation of wild animals and the conservation of biodiversity.