Peru is famous for more than just ceviche and llamas—well, technically, it’s alpacas!
From historical sites that were once home to mighty empires to landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth, Peru has a lot to offer. Learn the most interesting and fun facts about Peru—if your curiosity leads you, keep exploring; it’s worth it!
Cusco was the Inca Empire’s capital
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire, called Tawantinsuyu. From the 13th-16th century, the Tawantinsuyu Empire extended over parts of present Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, and Argentina.
Located in the Andes, the city was shaped like a puma, a sacred animal. It had structures like Sacsayhuamán and the Coricancha temple for the sun god Inti.
After the Spanish conquest in the 1500s, many Inca buildings were changed for colonial use. Although Inca traditions have survived in Peru until today and Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Machu Picchu is 7,970 feet above sea level
Machu Picchu is situated in the Andes Mountains of Peru at 7,970 feet above sea level. The original construction dates back to the 15th century and is believed to have served as a royal estate or place of religion for the Incas.
The site includes stone buildings, terraces for agriculture, and advanced water management systems.
Peru is full of fun facts, like how Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Photo by Adrian Dascal on Unsplash
Nazca Lines are ancient aerial geoglyphs
Nazca Lines are a set of ancient geoglyphs made by the Nazca people between 500 BCE - 500 CE. Situated in the Nazca Desert, they form different shapes for animals, plants, and other forms, best appreciated from above. The lines were made by clearing surface stones to reveal the lighter soil beneath.
While their exact purpose is still unknown, theories suggest they may have had religious or astronomical significance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Nazca Lines are an interesting fact about Peru’s historical and cultural heritage.
Photo by Alexander Schimmeck on Unsplash
Peru’s Rainbow Mountain’s colors come from minerals
The Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, in Peru, is known for its color bands caused by minerals. Found in the Andes at about 17,100 feet, its layers show red from iron oxide, green from chlorite, and yellow from sulfides.
The colors formed over millions of years through deposits and tectonic shifts. It is important to local communities and draws many visitors each year.
Photo by McKayla Crump on Unsplash
Peru grows thousands of potato types
The potato, native to the Andes of Peru, was first domesticated by indigenous people over 7,000 years ago and later spread worldwide following the Spanish conquest.
Another even more interesting fact about Peru is that the country has an impressive diversity of potatoes, with over 4,000 grown across the Andes.
Photo by Tom Fisk
Some potato types are Papa Amarilla, Papa Huayro, and Papa Negra. Farmers grow them at different heights and climates to ensure biodiversity. The International Potato Center in Peru also helps with research and conservation.
Amazon River starts in Peru’s Andes
The Amazon River begins in the Andes Mountains of Peru, with its source traced to the Mantaro or Apurímac River. It flows through Peru and continues across South America eventually reaching the Atlantic Ocean.
The river supports diverse ecosystems and provides water for the Amazon Rainforest. Peru’s portion of the river system is crucial for its biodiversity and hydrology.
Cerro Blanco is one of the tallest sand dunes
Cerro Blanco is one of the highest sand dunes in the world. It is situated near Nazca in southern Peru and at 3,860 feet from base to summit and about 6,800 feet above sea level.
The dune is a popular destination for activities like sandboarding and hiking, with tourists eager to experience its immense scale and stunning desert surroundings.
Pisco, a grape brandy, originated in Peru
Pisco, a grape brandy native to Peru, was first produced in the 16th century. Made from fermented grape juice, it is highly favored in the coastal wine areas.
The name “Pisco” traces its origin from the port city where it was first exported. True to tradition, Pisco is crafted from specific grape varieties and follows time-honored production methods. It is also the key ingredient in the Pisco Sour, Peru’s iconic national cocktail.
Photo by Marcelo Eduardo Pinto Ortega on Unsplash
Tomato originated in Peru
The tomato plant originated in the Andean region, including parts of present-day Peru. Indigenous people first domesticated wild tomatoes. These early tomatoes, called “currant tomatoes,” were small, less than 1 cm wide, grew in clusters, thriving in harsh conditions.
Over time, tomatoes spread to Central America and later traveled to Europe with the Spanish explorers, eventually becoming a global crop.
Peru hosts over 1,800 bird species
Peru is one of the best countries for birdlife with over 1,800 species. Birds can be found in many environments: the Amazon, Andes, and even areas along the coast.
Some well-known species are the Andean condor, scarlet macaw, and harpy eagle. Threatened endemic birds include the Marvelous Spatuletail, Junín grebe, and White-winged Guan.
Notable birding sites include Manu National Park, Colca Canyon, and Tambopata. Bird habitats are still being protected by conservation programs.
Photo by Julia Sadowska on Unsplash
Peru has three official languages
The official languages of Peru include Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara. Spanish is spoken by the majority of people and in government, education, and the mass media.
Quechua is spoken by millions of people, mainly in the Andes, with various regional dialects. Aymara is spoken basically in the southern region around Lake Titicaca.
These three languages that are present in Peru hint at the country’s cultural and historical diversity.
Giant Hummingbirds live in Peru
The Giant Hummingbird (Patagona gigas) is the largest hummingbird species, found in Peru and the Andes. It grows up to 8.5 inches long, much bigger than most hummingbirds. It’s just one of the many fun facts about Peru!
Like other hummingbirds, it feeds on nectar and hovers. However, its slower wingbeat, around 10–15 beats per second, sets it apart. This bird lives at high altitudes, often near cacti, which offer food and places to nest.
Ceviche is Peru’s National Dish
The famous Ceviche dish originated in Peru. It consists of raw fish marinated in lime juice, which “cooks” the fish. Classic ceviche contains onions, chili peppers, and cilantro, with sweet potatoes, corn, or lettuce on the side.
The concept dates back to pre-Spanish times when fish was preserved by soaking it in fermented juices.
Ceviche is Peru’s national dish, although each region has something slightly different in the way it is prepared.
A fun fact about is the special day for Ceviche in Peru every year on June 28th.
Photo by Pirata Studio Film on Unsplash
Peru has the largest alpaca population
Peru has 80% of the world’s alpacas, around 3.5 million. Alpacas live mainly in the Andes and are raised for their wool used to make textiles.
There are two alpaca breeds: Huacaya, with soft and woolly fibers, and Suri, which has straight ones.
The alpaca has been very important because of its wool used in making clothes throughout the cultures of the Andean region and became an important means of trade. Peru exports alpaca products around the world, aiding its economy and culture.
Did you know one of the most fun facts about Peru is that alpacas and llamas, often mistaken for the same animal, are actually quite different?
Alpacas and llamas are often confused because they belong to the same family but differ in many aspects. For instance, llamas are larger and have coarser wool, used for packing and textiles, while alpacas are smaller with fine, soft wool. Llamas are also more independent, while alpacas are gentler and prefer living in groups.
Photo by Paul Summers on Unsplash
Over 50 tribes live in Peru’s Amazon
Peru’s Amazon is home to over 50 Indigenous tribes, each with their own languages and customs.
Tribes like the Asháninka, Shipibo-Konibo, and Matsés live in the forest, using its resources for food, medicine, and materials. Other tribes, like the Mashco-Piro, prefer to stay isolated and their knowledge helps protect nature and medicine.
Cusco’s flag is similar to the LGBTQ+ pride flag
The flag of Cusco carries seven stripes of the colors of the rainbow, representing the city and its Andean region.
The flag of Cusco has been passed around as related to LGBTQ+ pride, but in fact, it was used long before the modern pride flag. Cusco adopted it in the 1970s, connecting it with Andean culture and ideals of unification. The flag is highly visible during festivals and in the public areas of this city.
Photo by Jacob Thorson on Unsplash
May 30 is National Potato Day In Peru
Did you know that May 30 is National Potato Day in Peru? It’s a fun celebration full of interesting facts about the potato’s role in Peru culture and farming. The potato comes from the Andes, and Peru grows over 4,000 types.
This day focuses on potatoes in local food and supports the protection of native varieties. Events include festivals, displays, and dishes made with potatoes. The day also honors Andean farmers and promotes eco-friendly farming methods.
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