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The Country: Peru is the third largest country in South America and is ranked in the top 20 of the world’s largest nations. It Capital is Lima.
The Landscape: Peru’s beautiful, western coastline is bordered by the South Pacific Ocean, featuring magnificent beaches. To the east, inland, are the Andes with its deserts and valleys. The Highlands consist of the Andes and the puna (flat terrain ranging from cold to almost freezing temperatures), or Highland Plains, known for its many different crops due to its accommodating climate.
The eastern portion of Peru is known for its vast area of thick, tropical jungle vegetation that surrounds the famous Amazon River.
The People: Nearly 26 million people populate the country of Peru. It is a multi ethnic country, with immigrants from the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe adding to its cultural flavor. About three quarters of its inhabitants live in the cities.
The Languages: Spanish dominates the language at 80 percent, with 16 percent speaking Quechua. The language made popular by the Inca Empire. 4 percent complete the other languages spoken.
Religious Life: 89 percent are Roman Catholic. 4 percent are Evangelical. 7 percent are other religions.
Government: Peru is a democratic republic, divided into 24 departments plus the Constitutional Province of Callao. Elections are held every 5 years for the President and members of Congress. Currently serving as President is Alan Garcia.
Industry: Minerals (gold, silver, copper lead, zinc), textiles, fishing products and cotton.
Currency: The official currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/.), which is divided into 100 centimos.
Tourism: There are many varied interests in Peru because of the diversity of the terrain and climate. If you are into trekking, climbing, camping and white water rafting your interest would primarily be focused on the Andes, or northern highlands. If you are a beach lover the coastline, and its beautiful pacific ocean, offer such attractions as windsurfing, fishing, scuba diving and plenty of sunbathing. Do you love cruising? Take a long journey down the Amazon River and discover the habitat and the rich, natural wonders of this renowned jungle. Depending on which area you choose to visit you can experience everything from superb cuisine, festivals, museums, archeological sites and historical tours, such as the Inca Empire and its culture, drenched in history.
