The Republic of Peru is found on the western side of South America, where it stands alongside both Colombia and Ecuador (north), Brazil (east), Chile (south) and Bolivia (south-east). The Pacific Ocean bounds the westerly shore of Peru, offering a number of popular beaches and an especially beautiful coastline.Peru is known the world over for its ancient civilisations, famous Inca Empire and former Spanish rule. The modern-day Peruvian culture is firmly rooted within various Spanish and Amerindian traditions, along with undeniable influences from Africa, Asia and Europe.
Few sights in the whole world come more impressive than the lost Inca city of Machu Picchu, which was built in the middle of the 15th century and then abandoned just 100 years later, only being discovered as recently as 1911. No trip to Peru can really be considered to be complete without a visit to Machu Picchu, with further Inca attractions lying nearby, in Cusco. To the south, the allure of Arequipa, Puno and Lake Titicaca is without question.
Standing next to Callao, Lima is the capital of Peru and can be found on the central South Pacific coast. To the north are the attractions of Chimbote, Salaverry, Trujillo, Piura and Paita, while in the far north-eastern corner is the Peruvian Amazon and the city of Iquitos, which can only be reached by plane or boat.
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World Guide to Arequipa, Peru Shaped by a number of past earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, Arequipa is Peru's second-biggest city and known for its sunny weather. Arequipa is filled with pale architecture and often goes by the name of the White City (Ciudad Blanca). |
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World Guide to Ayacucho, Peru Ranking as one of the most appealing of all the cities in Peru, Ayacucho has retained much of its colonial character and historic architecture. Ayacucho's skyline is filled with church spires, while the Peruvian Andes mountains are nearby. |
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World Guide to Callao, Peru Generally described as being the seaside suburb of Lima, Callao is really a city in its own right and lies next to the Pacific Ocean. Callao boasts an important port, as well as some very popular summer beach resorts, such as La Punta. |
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World Guide to Chiclayo, Peru Located along Peru's northerly coastline, the city of Chiclayo is a particular highlight for many a traveller. Chiclayo was established by Spanish missionaries in the 16th century and is surrounded by impressive archaeological sites. |
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World Guide to Chimbote, Peru Chimbote is home to Peru's premier fishing port and is a convenient stop-off point for tourists heading in a southerly direction. The beaches of Chimbote serves as a major draw card in the summer season and include the Playa Tortugas. |
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World Guide to Cusco, Peru One of southern Peru's most alluring cities, Cusco (Cuzco) has much to offer visiting tourists and was formerly the capital of the ancient Inca Empire. Cusco is well-placed for trips to the Sacred Valley (Urubamba) and Machu Picchu. |
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World Guide to Huancayo, Peru A friendly Peruvian city featuring dramatic mountain views, Huancayo has an atmosphere and appearance similar to that of the Wild West. Huancayo is brimming with Peruvian culture and is conveniently near to the Rio Mantaro Valley. |
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World Guide to Iquitos, Peru Found within Peru's somewhat isolated Northern Amazon region, Iquitos can only be reached by either boat or plane. Many tourists choose to reach the jungle city of Iquitos by taking a scenic cruise along the Rio Amazonas (Amazon River). |
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World Guide to Juliaca, Peru Famed for its relative proximity to the glorious Lake Titicaca, the city of Juliaca is also close to Puno and provides a good base for exploring the area. Many traditional Peruvian villages are situated just minutes away from Juliaca. |
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World Guide to Lima, Peru A fast-paced South American city, Lima has long been the capital of Peru and is an enormous desert city. Lima comprises modern shopping malls, high-rise accommodation, endless seafood restaurants and an enticing nightlife. |
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World Guide to Machu Picchu, Peru Machu Picchu is generally described as the Lost City of the Incas and is truly a wondrous ancient attraction. Near to the small town of Aguas Calientes, the remains of Machu Picchu now rank as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. |
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World Guide to Piura, Peru Lying next to Peru's north-westerly shoreline and also the Sechura Desert, Piura is characterised by its fine weather, cobbled alleyways and colonial character. A number of neighbouring beaches further increase the tourist appeal of Piura. |
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World Guide to Trujillo, Peru Trujillo remains amongst the most charismatic cities in Peru and provides visitors with a taste of the past. Nearby, the beach of Huanchaco is much favoured by tourists, as is the Chan Chan World Heritage Site and its well-preserved remains. |
Peru Information / Peru Fast Facts
- Country: Republic of Peru / República del Perú (South America)
- Population: 28 million
- Capital city: Lima (population 8.2 million)
- Language: Spanish
- Main exports: copper, fabric, fish meal, gold and zinc
- Area: 496,220 square miles / 1,285,200 square kilometres
- Currency: Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN)
- Time zone: UTC - 5
- Country dialling code: +51
- Religion: largely Roman Catholic
Map of Peru
