Peru is a fascinating mix of culture, colour and cuisine. From the soaring peaks of the Andes and the lush Amazon Rainforest to pre-Columbian ruins and Spanish colonial mansions - Peru is magical and inspiring. A country full of unique destinations which is full of surprises and exceptional experiences from luxury trains to Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, trekking in the Andes, private planes over the Nazca Lines and luxury cruises and lodges in the Amazon.
It has never been easier to experience Peru in style.
A nation full of flavours whose cuisine already ranks among the world's most prestigious; it is a country which is guaranteed to stimulate your senses. With its breath-taking landscape and brilliant diversity, Peru opens itself to the world to welcome those seeking unforgettable life experiences.
Explore Peru, a country of contrast and culture
Location: Peru is located in the Western coast of South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean on the west; Bolivia, Brazil and Chile to the east and south and Ecuador and Columbia to the north.
Size, population and regions: Peru is the 3rd largest country in South America at 1.28 million km, with a population of 28 million people; around 7.5 million Peruvians live in the country's capital, Lima. More than half, (52%), of the nation lives along the coast, 36% in the highlands and 12% in jungle areas.
Language: Spanish is the most spoken language of Peru. However, Quechua (the language of the Incas), Aymara and 40 other indigenous Amazonian languages also have official status. English is widely spoken in major tourist areas.
About Peru
General information
Capital City Lima which is the only capital in South America with an oceanfront. Other major cities include Arequipa and Trujillo.
Weather Peru is divided in 3 main regions. The temperature is different in each region:
The Coast represents 12% of the territory; it is a narrow strip of desert intersected by rivers. The Northern section of the coast is sunny all year round. The coastal region is where the locals head during the hottest months from mid-November through to the end of March. Rain is most likely to fall along the coast between June and October, however is infrequent. Temperatures along the coast are pleasant (14°C to 28°C).
The Highlands represent 28% of the territory, dominated by the Andean Mountain Range that runs parallel to the Pacific Ocean. The highlands are cool, averaging between 9°C and 18°C because of the altitude, but can be visited year round even during the wet season which falls between December and March.
The Amazon Rainforest is nearly 60% and it is the richest and most varied tropical rainforest and one of the great natural reserves on the planet. Rain is common year-round in the Amazon rainforest, however the wettest months are mid-November to March and even in the wet season it only rains for a few hours at a time. The rainforest also enjoys quite hot weather ranging from 26°C to 40°C, with the cooler months from April to November.
When to go Low season runs from November to April, while high season runs from May to October.
Currency: Nuevo Sol (PEN). 1 Nuevo Sol is equivalent to 2.6 Australian Dollars.
Time Peru is approximately 15 hours behind the Eastern States of Australia and 13 hours behind Perth.
Passport and Visa RequirementsAustralian visitors to Peru require a valid passport with at least six months validity from the planned date of return. Visitors also require a return ticket on arrival.
Passport and visa requirements are subject to change. It is recommended you contact the Embassy of Peru in Australia for more information prior to travel.
Embassy of Peru in Australia:
embaperu.org.au
