Written by:Claire Dean
Published: 01-06-2022
Everyone has heard of Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and Pisco Sours, however here are some interesting lesser-known facts about Peru!
Lake Titicaca
- Peru has 90 different microclimates!
- The first evidence of humans on the planet was found at Caral and dates back 5000 years!
Caral
- A third of Peru’s population live in the capital city, Lima.
- Peru is the 6th largest gold producer in the world.
- Peru boasts 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Cusco, Machu Picchu, and a number of national parks.
- Peru has over 3000 varies of potato and 55 varieties of corn!
- There are 43 Indigenous languages spoken in Peru.
- Peru is home to 1625 species of orchids.
Orchid at Machu Picchu
- Peru has 90 different microclimates!
- Cerro Blanco, near Nazca, is the highest sand dune in the world, measuring 1176 metres high!
- Cotahuasi is one of the deepest canyons in the world, plummeting to a depth of 3535 metres.
- Peru eats pets! With cat and guinea pig regional delicacies.
- Huacachina is the only oasis in Latin America.
Huacachina Oasis
- Peru is home to the smallest monkey in the world- the Pygmy Marmoset.
- Nevado Mismi in Arequipa, standing at 5597 metres high, is the source of the Amazon River.
- Inca Cola is the unofficial national drink of Peru. Step aside Coca Cola, this flavour of bubble gum and cream soda will give you an extra burst of energy and a caffeine hit, when needed.
- Peru has the longest left-handed wave in the world, 4km long.
Humbolt Penguins, Paracas
- You can see penguins in Peru! A boat ride to the marine reserve in Paracas will get you up close to these comical animals living on the rocky outcrops.
- Stunning yet shy, the endangered pink dolphins swim in the Amazon River near Iquitos.
