Fun and interesting facts about Peru: The ultimate list

Facts about the fascinating history of Peru

Peru's history is still alive in its ruins, traditions, and even festivals. Stories passed down for generations are part of Peruvians' everyday lives — ancient civilizations and mysterious legends have all shaped the country. Let's uncover some fascinating facts about Peru that bring its heritage to life!

Peru was part of the largest empire in pre-Columbian America

Before the Spanish colonization, the Inca Empire stretched from modern-day Ecuador and southern Colombia to central Chile and Argentina, making it the largest civilization in the Americas at the time. The Incas developed a sophisticated society with monumental architecture, an extensive road network, advanced agricultural practices, and a centralized economy based on labor taxation.

The Inca’s engineering skills were quite advanced for that time — Machu Picchu, a mountaintop city built with precisely cut stones fitted together without mortar, still stands strong after centuries of earthquakes due to its seismic-resistant design. The Incas were also master planners, creating a vast network of roads that connected their empire.

Peru is home to a sacred route that leads to one of the Seven Wonders of the World

There are hikes, and then there's the Inca Trail. This legendary trek winds through mountains, ruins, and forests before revealing the grand finale, the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu — one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The trail, however, is just a small stretch of an enormous road network built by the Incan Empire over 500 years ago. It’s estimated that the empire’s roads connected cities, temples, and remote settlements across Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. 

Historians believe the Inca Trail was a sacred pilgrimage route used primarily by royalty and priests to reach Machu Picchu, an important ceremonial site. This theory is supported by the many Inca ruins scattered along the 26-mile (42 km) trek.

The trail is one of the most breathtaking ways to experience the legacy of the Inca civilization firsthand. With multiple trail options, there's an Inca Trail adventure for everyone. Just remember — the Peruvian government has implemented strict regulations due to its popularity and the need to preserve the trail's integrity. Only licensed tour operators can arrange treks, and daily permits are limited to 500 people, including trekkers, guides, and support staff. You should book well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

A desert in Peru is home to the mysterious Nazca Lines

If you fly over the Peruvian desert, you'll see figures of animals, humans, and geometric shapes stretch across the sand. These are the Nazca Lines, etched into the Earth more than 1,500 years ago, and they're so big that you can only properly see them from the sky. How did ancient civilizations make them? Did aliens draw them? What was their purpose — an offering to the gods? Or perhaps a giant astronomical calendar? The mystery keeps scientists (and conspiracy theorists) baffled.

Archaeologists believe the Nazca Lines were created by carefully brushing away the dark, iron-rich rocks that cover the desert floor, revealing the lighter-colored sand beneath. But here’s the real mystery — these massive geoglyphs, some stretching hundreds of feet across, were made without any way to see them from above. How the ancient Nazca civilization managed such precise designs remains one of the biggest unanswered questions.

Another question is the purpose of the lines. National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Johan Reinhard believes that the massive geoglyphs were a part of sacred rituals to summon rain and ensure fertile crops. Fellow researcher Anthony Aveni agrees, suggesting that the shapes weren't directional guides but gathering spaces for ceremonies. The animals etched into the desert — spiders, hummingbirds, monkeys — are connected to water and fertility in the Andean culture, reinforcing the idea that the lines may have been part of a more significant spiritual practice.

A city in Peru was the cradle of the oldest civilization in the Americas

Before the Inca people, there was the Caral — the oldest civilization in the Americas. They lived on the coast of Peru from 3000 to 1800 BC and left a massive complex less than 130 miles from the modern-day capital, Lima. The Caral Archaeological Site, discovered in 1994 by Peruvian archaeologist Ruth Shady, has been extensively researched and excavated since then.

The Caral's urban planning was very advanced, with areas for residence, administration, and agriculture, reflecting their complex social and economic systems. The Caral culture was also known for its artistic achievements, with intricate ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and musical instruments found at the site. A notable discovery was the quipus — knotted ropes used to record information — suggesting a progressive communication and accounting system. Despite their achievements, the people from Caral mysteriously disappeared, possibly due to environmental factors like climate change. 

Peru has been fascinated by gold for thousands of years

Peru’s fascination with gold goes back to the Inca Empire, where it wasn’t just a shiny accessory — it was believed to be the sweat of the sun. Temples, jewelry, and ceremonial objects were all decorated with gold. However, when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, their hunger for gold led to ruthless plundering. Temples were robbed, artifacts melted down, and entire cities changed forever.

One of the most famous myths surrounding Incan gold is the story of Atahualpa's ransom. After the Inca emperor was captured by Francisco Pizarro in 1532, he promised to fill a room with gold and two with silver in exchange for his freedom. Unfortunately, before the treasure arrived, Atahualpa was executed. Many believe that the Spanish never claimed the treasure, and it's still hidden somewhere in the Andes.

However, some of the treasures survived — you can still see some stunning Incan gold pieces in museums, such as the Gold Museum in Lima and the Pre-Columbian Art Museum in Cusco. Besides, Peru is still one of the world’s top gold producers, and mining brings both economic opportunities and environmental challenges. Regions like Madre de Dios are at the heart of Peru’s gold rush, where travelers can take a tour and witness the impact of modern gold mining.

Peruvians revived an ancient celebration that you can attend every year

On June 24 every year, the city of Cusco comes alive with Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun — an ancient Inca celebration marking the winter solstice and new year. This grand spectacle was once the most important ceremony of the Inca Empire, filled with days of fasting, ritual dances, and offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth) to ensure a bountiful harvest.

After the Spanish colonization in 1535, authorities banned Inti Raymi, but centuries later, people revived it as a reenactment. Today, it's one of South America's largest festivals, drawing thousands of visitors worldwide. The procession moves through Cusco's streets, leading to a citadel and the historic capital of the Inca Empire, Sacsayhuamán, where performers in striking costumes recreate the rituals once carried out by the Incas.

Facts about Peru's wildlife and natural wonders

Peru isn't just about ancient history and ruins — it's also a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. With diverse ecosystems ranging from the Amazon Rainforest to the Pacific Ocean, the country is home to some of the planet's most spectacular wildlife and landscapes.

The Amazon rainforest covers 60% of Peru's territory

The Peruvian Amazon is a vast, biodiverse wonderland, second only to Brazil's portion of the rainforest. Spanning nearly 60% of Peru's landscape, this untamed wilderness is home to thousands of species, making it one of Earth's most biologically rich places. Here, you might glimpse elusive creatures like jaguars, pink river dolphins, and harpy eagles in their natural habitat — one of the last remaining places where these animals live. 

The Peruvian Amazon also plays a crucial role in the global fight against climate change. As one of Earth's most vital carbon sinks, it stores over 48.2 billion metric tons of carbon, helping regulate the planet's climate and protect our future.

A canyon twice as deep as the Grand Canyon is in Peru

The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, reaching a depth of approximately 10,433 feet (3,180 meters), which is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the USA! "Colca" refers to ancient storerooms called "colas," used by pre-Inca civilizations to store food like corn and potatoes, highlighting the area's significance as an agricultural center.

Now the canyon is a haven for diverse wildlife, including the Andean condor, the world's largest bird with a wingspan reaching up to 11 feet (3.3 meters). Visitors often go to the "Cruz del Condor" viewpoint to witness these majestic birds soaring gracefully above the canyon. Beyond its natural beauty, the Colca Canyon has charming villages, terraced agriculture, and thermal springs.

The world's highest navigable lake is home to thousands of people who live on floating islands

At 12,507 feet (3,812 meters) above sea level, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. This lake is believed to be over 3 million years old and has been home to civilizations for centuries. In Andean belief, Lake Titicaca is the sun's birthplace — according to the mythology, this is where Huiracocha, the god of creation, emerged from the lake and created the sun, moon, and stars. There was also a legend of a lost city in the depths of Titicaca, which was proven true! In the year 2000, scientists discovered a temple, a terrace for crops, and a pre-Incan road on the lake bottom.

But what truly makes the lake spectacular are the Uros Floating Islands. These islands are made of totora reeds — thick, buoyant plants growing in the lake. The Uros people, an Indigenous group from Peru and Bolivia, began constructing these islands centuries ago as a defence strategy, allowing them to move away from potential threats. Around 4,000 Uros still live on these floating islands, preserving their ancestors' way of life.

Peru is famous for its native camelids, such as llamas and alpacas

You might think that no trip to Peru is complete without spotting llamas and alpacas. Well, South America's famous camelid family actually includes four members — llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos. While they might look similar at first glance, each has unique traits. Llamas are the largest and were domesticated for carrying loads. On the other hand, Alpacas are smaller and prized for their ultra-soft fleece. Then there are the wild ones — vicuñas and guanacos. Vicuñas are the smallest and have excellent wool, once reserved for Incan royalty. Guanacos, the ancestors of llamas, are tough, adaptable creatures that thrive in the high-altitude wilderness.

How do you tell them apart? Llamas have long, banana-shaped ears, while alpacas have short, pointy ones. Alpacas are also more compact and fluffy, whereas llamas are taller and leaner. Vicuñas and guanacos are harder to come across while traveling since they roam free in the mountains, but if you do — you can recognize vicuñas by their golden coat and delicate frame, while guanacos are slightly larger with a reddish-brown color.

The world’s only boiling river is in Peru 

Located deep in the Peruvian Amazon, Shanay-Timpishka, also known as the Boiling River, reaches temperatures up to 200°F (93°C) — not precisely boiling, but hot enough to cook any unfortunate animal that falls in. Historically, only the most powerful shamans would dare approach its steaming banks, believing the area to be inhabited by potent spirits, so for a long time, many people were unaware of its existence.

In fact, many scholars considered the "boiling river" a legend. However, a Peruvian geoscientist, Andrés Ruzo, proved everyone wrong in 2011. Following his grandfather's stories and a map provided by some of his colleagues from the Peruvian government, he found the boiling river and showed that the legend was real.

Scientists proposed three main theories to explain the Boiling River's existence. One suggested it was a volcanic feature fueled by hidden magma. Another offered a natural geothermal system, where deep, heated water rises rapidly to the surface. The most alarming theory speculated an oil field accident, given the river's proximity to an active drilling site. After careful study, scientists confirmed that the river is a natural phenomenon — an incredibly rare, non-volcanic geothermal system where water is heated deep within the Earth and then rises rapidly to the surface, creating the surreal boiling waters today.

The highest permanent settlement is in the Peruvian Andes 

La Rinconada, situated in the Peruvian Andes at approximately 16,700 feet (5,100 meters) above sea level, is the highest permanent settlement in the world. Once a modest gold prospecting camp, it is now a big community that has settled there because of the allure of gold mining.

However, life in La Rinconada is challenging. The town has high crime rates and lacks formal governance and basic infrastructure, including running water, sewage systems, and reliable electricity. Residents often rely on imported food supplies, and improper waste disposal methods contribute to environmental pollution. The high altitude poses health risks, such as altitude sickness, and the town experiences an alpine tundra climate — summers are relatively short and cool, while winters are long and harsh, with frequent snowfall. 

Given the health risks, environmental hazards, and safety concerns, visiting La Rinconada is not recommended for most — it's a challenging and potentially dangerous destination. But if you are determined to visit, thorough preparation, including acclimatization and understanding the local environment, is very important.

Peru has a rainbow-colored mountain 

Who says rainbows only belong in the sky? Hidden in the Peruvian Andes is a mountain that looks like it's been grabbed from the sky and placed on the ground. The Rainbow Mountain’s striking colors come from layers of minerals shaped over time by water, wind, and shifting glaciers. The area used to be covered in snow, but now the effects of climate change have revealed the rainbow.

To reach Rainbow Mountain, travelers start in Cusco, head toward Checacupe, then to Pitumarca, and finally to Pampachiri. Here, visitors pay a small entrance fee — 10 soles for foreign travelers and five soles for Peruvians — before beginning the final hike. This three-hour trek is not easy, because the mountain stands over 16,404 feet (5,000 meters) above sea level.

To make the most of the experience, acclimate to the altitude, pack plenty of water and snacks, and respect the landscape by carrying out any waste. It's a challenging journey, but standing atop Vinicunca, surrounded by colors you'd never expect to see in nature, makes every step worth it.

Facts about the colorful culture of Peru

Peru is a place you have to experience! Whether through food, music, or language, Peruvians have kept their rich heritage alive for centuries, and trust us — you'll want to be part of it.

Peruvian culinary scene has been influenced by African, Chinese, and Japanese communities

Peruvian cuisine is a delicious mash-up of cultures shaped by centuries of culinary fusion. Indigenous ingredients like potatoes, quinoa, and chilli peppers have been staples for thousands of years. Then came the Spanish, bringing rice, wheat, and new meats, blending their flavors with local traditions to create classics like arroz con pollo.

But the mix didn't stop there — African, Chinese, and Japanese influences have added even more depth. African communities introduced hearty dishes like tacu tacu, while Chinese stir-frying techniques led to lomo saltado, a beloved Peruvian-Chinese fusion dish. Japanese immigrants brought fresh seafood traditions that evolved into the famous Nikkei cuisine.

And, of course, no conversation about Peruvian food is complete without mentioning cuy — guinea pig. While it might surprise some tourists, this traditional dish has been enjoyed in the Andes for centuries, often served whole and crispy during festivals and celebrations. It's a must-try for  adventurous foodies looking to experience authentic Andean flavors.

Ancient Peruvian textile weaving techniques are still used to this day 

Peruvian textiles are more than just fabric — they're a piece of history. For thousands of years, skilled artisans in Peru have been weaving vibrant, intricate designs that tell stories of tradition, mythology, and the natural world around them. These textiles, often made from alpaca and llama wool, are crafted with age-old techniques passed down through generations.

These ancient practices are still alive today, woven into modern pieces while honoring the beauty and heritage of the past. Some of these textiles are even hitting the runways and filling the pages of high-fashion magazines!

Quechua, the language of the Incas, is still spoken in Peru today

You don't need a time machine to hear the language of the Incas — just visit Peru! Quechua, spoken for centuries before the arrival of the Spanish, remains an integral part of daily life. Even if you don't speak a word, learning a simple phrase like “Allin punchaw” — which means “Good day” — offers a small but meaningful connection to this ancient language.

Its structure, grammar, and expressive vocabulary reflect the Andean way of life. Words like “ayni,” meaning a system of mutual aid, highlight the language's connection to cultural values. While the Incas played a role in spreading Quechua across their empire, its origins predate them, and today it has at least seven recognized dialects.

But Quechua's influence extends far beyond tradition. Artists like Renata Flores Rivera, named the "Queen of Quechua rap" by The New York Times, are blending the language with modern music genres like reggaeton and rap, proving that Quechua is not just a relic of the past but a living, evolving form of expression.

Don't forget to get an eSIM app before your trip to Peru

Before you start your Peruvian adventure, there's one essential you don't want to overlook — staying connected. Whether you're navigating the streets of Lima, trekking to Machu Picchu, or posting a picture of a llama you just petted, having reliable mobile data can save the day.

While roaming fees can be expensive and buying a local SIM might be too much of a hassle, getting an eSIM  is easy and proves to be an affordable choice. Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM lets you activate a mobile plan instantly and have an internet connection as soon as you arrive. It's the easiest way to stay online, access maps, and keep in touch with your family or friends back home.

If you're planning to visit Peru, you should check Saily's eSIM for Peru for seamless connectivity wherever you go. It's easy to use — just download the Saily eSIM app and get started in minutes!