Claire Dean
Claire Dean

Claire Dean

Travel in South America is a joy to behold. The rich variety of destinations, experiences, landscapes and geography fascinated me so much, that I chose to relocate here, over 20 years ago! The best thing I ever did! Allow me to share my knowledge and passion for Central and South America with you and help you plan your holiday of a lifetime!

Lesser-Known Facts about Peru

Lesser-Known Facts about Peru

5MINREAD

Written by:Claire Dean

Published: 2022-06-01

Everyone has heard of Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and Pisco Sours, however here are some interesting lesser-known facts about Peru!

 

interesting facts peru contenido

Lake Titicaca

 

  • Peru has 90 different microclimates! 
  • The first evidence of humans on the planet was found at Caral and dates back 5000 years! 

 

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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. 

 

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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. 

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

interesting facts peru contenido

Pink Dolphin, Amazon

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