Discover Peru
Upper-middle-income economy. Mining (copper, gold, silver), fishing, agriculture, textiles. Growing gastronomy tourism.
About Peru
Geography
Area: 1,285,216 sq km
- • Varies from tropical east to arctic west (Andes)
- • Coastal desert in west
- • Amazon jungle in east
- • Highland plateaus
Government
Type: presidential republic
Capital: Lima
Economy
Upper-middle-income economy. Mining (copper, gold, silver), fishing, agriculture, textiles. Growing gastronomy tourism.
GDP: $223.2 billion
Per Capita: $6,700
Demographics
Population: 32,440,172
Languages: Spanish (official) 82.9%, Quechua 13.6%, Aymara 1.6%
Religions: Catholic 60%, Evangelical 14.6%, none 21%
Explore Peru's Regions
Discover 26 distinct regions, each with unique landscapes and culture.
Major Cities in Peru
Explore 50 cities with unique attractions and experiences.
Travel Essentials
📞 Contact & Emergency
Phone Code: +51
Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
fire: 116
police: 105
ambulance: 116
touristPolice: 0800-22221
⚡ Practical Info
Electricity: 220V / 60Hz / Type A, B, C
Driving: Right
Water: ❌ Bottled only
💰 Tipping
- • 10% in restaurants
- • Tour guides: S/20-50 per day
- • Porters on Inca Trail: S/20-30 per day
- • Taxi: round up
When to Visit Peru
✅ Best Months
May, June, July, August, September
🔥 Peak Season
Jun-Aug (dry season in highlands, Inca Trail peak)
💎 Off Season
Nov-Mar (rainy in highlands, but coast is sunny)
Carnival (nationwide, especially Cajamarca)
Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun, Cusco, Jun 24)
Independence Day (Jul 28-29)
Lord of Miracles procession (Lima)
Top Destinations in Peru
Cultural Tips
- 💡Peruvian cuisine is world-class — try ceviche, lomo saltado, causa, and aji de gallina
- 💡Altitude sickness is real in Cusco (3,400m) — take it slow first day, drink coca tea
- 💡Bargaining is expected in markets
- 💡Pisco Sour is the national drink — try it everywhere
- 💡Always carry small bills — many places don't have change
- 💡Book Inca Trail 6+ months ahead (permits required, limited to 500/day)
Frequently Asked Questions
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What to Buy in Peru
Places to Visit
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