Peru - Useful information for your trip

Peru is a country located in South America and lapped by the Pacific Ocean on the western coast. It can be divided into three main geographical regions. The costa, a arid plain characterized by some valleys originated by some seasonal rivers; the sierra, where the Andes mountains are located with their high peaks, such as the Huascarán; and the selva, a wide area covered by the Amazon rainforest which presents a warm and humid climate and a lush and impenetrable vegetation.

Because of the presence of several uplands, the weather conditions are different from region to region. The western area boasts an arid subtropical climate mitigated by Antarctic winds; the mountain region has a temperate climate, while the Peruvian Amazon is characterized by heavy rainfall and high temperature.

Due to these morphological and climate diversities, Peru owns many plant and animal species. Indeed, in the Amazon area it is possible to find tropical trees, but in the country it is also possible to admire cactus and water-retaining plants, endemic of the desert areas. Many protected areas have been estabilished in order to safeguard these natural beauties.

Peru boasts an important history, in fact, it was the cradle of some ancient cultures, such as the Inca Empire, the biggest empire of the Pre-Columbian ages in America. In 1573 it was conquered by the Spanish Empire, that established the Viceroyalty of Castilla. Only on 28 July 1821 did Peru declare its independence.

Nowadays Peru is a multiethnic country, that includes local indigenous population, both African and Spanish, the community that imposed the languages. Moreover, after the independence, also Italian, German, English and French people emigrated here.

The main economical resources come from the primary sector. The agriculture of corn, potatoes, artichokes and asparagus is fundamental, as well as mining and manufacturing.

In addition, also the tourist sector is highly developed. Visitors are attracted by the Incan and pre-Incan archaeological sites, by the ancient colonial cities, such as Cusco, Arequipa and Lima and by the breath-taking beauties of the landscape, such as the natural reserve of Paracas on the Ocean, the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest.