About Peru
Peru has a fascinating history dating to the 10th millennium BC with the Incan Empire perhaps the most well-known of the region’s Andean civilizations. Rulers of the largest realm in pre-Columbian America – and the builders of the 15th-century mountain citadel, Machu Picchu – the Incan Empire arose in the early 13th century, dominating a wide swath of western South America until the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century.
Claimed as a colony by Spain, Peru gained its independence in 1824. Now a representative democratic republic, Peru’s diverse population contributes to the country’s equally distinctive cultural, culinary and artistic landscape.
Where is Peru?
In the western part of South America, Peru has a long coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The rest of the country is bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Chile and Bolivia.
Getting to Peru
Turkish Airlines operates connecting flights to Peru. For flight times and other information, please visit our flight ticket page.
When to visit Peru?
To fully appreciate Peru’s attractions, visit between May and October. Although the climate varies depending on the region, in general, there’s less rain and milder weather during this time.
Lima, Peru’s capital, and other Peruvian cities
The capital of Peru: Lima
As well as being Peru’s capital, Lima is considered the country’s political, cultural and touristic center. With a population of around 11 million people, Lima has a plethora of attractions. Some of the highlights of the “City of Kings” include the Plaza de Armas, Lima Cathedral, Government Palace (House of Pizarro), the Miraflores district, the Larco Museum, the Archbishop’s Palace of Lima, Kennedy Park and Park of the Reserve.
Arequipa
Arequipa is the second-largest city in Peru and the largest of the Arequipa region. The historical center of Arequipa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, notable for its many structures built with white or pink volcanic sillar rock; as a result, this high-altitude city is also known as the ‘White City’. In addition to its historical center and highly developed industry and trade, Arequipa offers a number of highlights, including the Colca Canyon, the Santa Catalina Monastery, and the Plaza de Armas.
Trujillo
Set along the Pacific coastline, Trujillo has the distinction of being one of Peru’s oldest cities. Renowned for its beaches, surf spots and seafood, Trujillo is a popular holiday destination. Some of the highlights of this scenic city include the colonial-era, neoclassical Casa Ganoza Chopitea. The pre-Columbian Chan Chan archaeological site, the El Brujo Archaeological Complex and the Moche Pyramids are all within a 90-minute drive from the city center.
Dining in Peru
Peruvian cuisine has become quite popular around the world, with the country’s history and diverse population reflected in its distinctive dishes. The traditional staples include meats, corn, legumes, and potatoes and other tubers, as well as grains such as quinoa. Some of the most well-known dishes include:
- Ceviche (fish and other seafood marinated in lime juice with salt and chilies)
- Cancha (fried corn kernels)
- Anticuchos de corazón (grilled beef, deer or lamb hearts)
- Pachamanca (marinated meats and vegetables cooked in an earthen oven)
- Papas rellenas (mashed potato croquettes with a minced beef filling)
- Arroz con pollo (spiced rice with chicken)
- Peru also produces some of the world’s tastiest coffee beans!
Practical information
- Capital of Peru: Lima
- Official language of Peru: Spanish
- Peruvian currency: Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN)
We wish you pleasant travels!
