Home to the greatest mystery of the Americas — Machu Picchu rising through morning mist, the Nazca Lines visible only from above, the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, and the world's finest ceviche.
- Capital
- Lima
- Population
- 34,350,244
- Area
- 1,285,220 km²
- Languages
- Aymara, Quechua, Spanish
- Currency
- Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN)
- GDP
- $303,293M
Good to know
Driving side
Right
National dish
Ceviche
Annual visitors
1,119,000 (2020)
Safety
Elevated (8.6/100k)
Big Mac
$5.03
Avg temp
19.7°C
Religion
Christianity
Coast
Coastal
☎ Police 011 · Ambulance 011 · Fire 011
Travel guide
Peru (Spanish: Perú) is without a doubt one of the most captivating countries in South America. Home of the epic lost Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the mind-blowing Nazca Lines, this country's unique past awakens the adventurer in travellers of all sorts. Its awe-inspiring scenery varies from the wild Amazon jungles to vast coastal deserts and the icy peaks of the Andes. Peru hosts a biodiversity rarely seen within the limits of a single country, with a list of spectacular wildlife far beyond the well-known llamas and circling condors. On top of all that, Peru's friendly, multi-ethnic people are a cultural treasure on their own. The enchanting mix of dozens of distinct indigenous groups, mestizos and criollos, all with their own colourful traditions and food delicacies, is an encounter you won't easily forget. In short, this is a country of unimaginable extremes where choosing your trip destinations may prove a true challenge. Whether you decide to go off the beaten track, follow in the footsteps of thousands of visitors before you who took the Gringo Trail along some of the best highlights, or go experience the jungle through a relaxing multiple-day Amazon boat trip — Peru is likely to amaze you in everything you do.
© Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA)
Explore Peru
Best time to visit
May–October is the dry season — the best time for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail (permits sell out months ahead). June–August is peak season but clear skies. November–April is rainy season in the highlands but lush and green.
Visa
US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia and most nationalities enter visa-free for 90 days (183 days for some nationalities). Peru is one of the most open countries in South America for tourism.
Highlights
Machu Picchu, this ancient Incan city is perched high in the Andes Mountains and is known for its well-preserved ruins and stunning mountain views.
Public holidays
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (70)
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Major cities
Lima
South America's gastronomic capital, with the world's best restaurant and a stunning Pacific coastal setting.
Cusco
The former Inca capital at 3,400m, gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, with stunning colonial architecture.
Machu Picchu
The Lost City of the Incas — a citadel above the clouds that is arguably the greatest archaeological site in the Americas.
Arequipa
The White City — a UNESCO colonial center built from white volcanic sillar stone, with El Misti volcano above.