Peru

Peru is a country on the western coast of South America. It was once the center of the great Inca Empire. Peru has tall mountains, thick jungles, and a dry coast. The famous lost city of Machu Picchu sits high in the Andes.

Land and People

About 34 million people live in Peru. The capital is Lima. The Andes Mountains run through the middle of the country. The Amazon rainforest covers the eastern part. Lake Titicaca on the border with Bolivia is the highest large lake in the world.

Ruins of one of the oldest cities ever built in Peru.
Ruins of one of the oldest cities ever built in Peru. (AlisonRuthHughes / Wikimedia Commons)

Culture and Fun Facts

Peruvians eat ceviche, which is fresh fish mixed with lime juice. The potato originally came from Peru, and there are over 3,000 kinds there. Llamas and alpacas roam the highlands. Traditional music uses pan flutes and drums.

Fun Facts

  • Machu Picchu was built by the Incas over 500 years ago high in the mountains.
  • Peru has over 3,000 varieties of potatoes.
  • The Amazon River starts in the mountains of Peru.

Did You Know?

Lake Titicaca between Peru and Bolivia is the highest lake in the world where big boats can sail. Some people live on floating islands made out of dried reeds. They build their homes and boats from the same reeds.