When you travel to Peru, you’re setting yourself up for a pretty mind-expanding adventure.
There are so many amazing things to do in Peru, you’ve got the Inca Trail to hike, Machu Picchu to explore, guinea pig to eat, poison dart frogs to avoid, Pisco sours to consume and the Nazca Lines to get your head around.
Then there’s the facts. Don’t forget the facts.
1. Wedding Sandals
Incans were not considered married unless they exchanged sandals.
2. Peruvian Origins
Paddington Bear came from “darkest Peru”, where he was brought up by his Aunt Lucy after being orphaned during an earthquake.
3. Good Coverage
A total of two-thirds of Peru is covered in prime Amazon Rainforest. It really is a jungle out there.
4. Big Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is South America’s largest lake and the world’s highest navigable lake, much to the envy of all other nearby lakes.
5. Tri-Lingual
There are three different official languages in Peru – Spanish, Quechua and Aymara. But’s it’s thought that some natives living in Amazon Jungle regions speak a further 13 languages. Be sure to learn some basic Spanish phrases for tourists before arriving.
6. Mellow Yellow
On New Year’s Eve, Peruvian families traditionally give friends and family yellow underwear. Good.
7. Massively Micro
Peru has around 90 individual micro-climates, which makes it one of the most bio-diverse countries on the planet. It’s not all about Machu Picchu, y’know.
8. High Sand Lows
Cerro Blanco, in the Sechura Desert, is 1,176 metres high, making it the highest sand dune in the world.
9. Super Corny
Love corn? Peru grows around 55 different types. Yellow, black, purple – you name it, you got it.
10. Per-Tato
The humble potato originated in Peru (and there are about 3000 varieties). The phrase: “Soy mas Peruano que la papa” is often used by the locals. It means “I am more Peruvian than the potato”.
Hopefully our list of random facts about Peru has given you some inspired to visit. Peru really is a special country with friendly people and some of the most incredible tourist attractions in South America. If you would like to travel to Peru you might like to view our guide to things to know before trekking the Inca trail.
