Our Peru Fact File will give you background information on certain areas of Peru. We are constantly updating the Peru Fact File with new information so you can get a great insight into Peru before you decide to travel there.
Peru has three distinct regions, a narrow coastal belt (along the Pacific Ocean), the wide Andean mountains and the Amazon rainforest.
Although the coastal belt is a desert, that is where most of the population lives. Perú is renowned as the land of the Incas, but many great pre-Columbian civilizations flourished. Visitors can see the ancient ruins of the Inca capital of Cusco, explore the lost city of Machu Picchu as well as ruins from a variety of other cultures including the Nazca and the Moche.
Facts on Peru
Full country name:
Republic of Peru
Area:
1.28 million sq km
Population:
28 million
Capital City:
Lima
People:
54% Indian, 32% Mestizo (mixed European and Indian descent), 12% Spanish descent, 2% other.
Religion:
Over 90% Roman Catholic, small Protestant population Perú borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile and the Pacific Ocean.
Make a real difference to the lives of disadvantaged children and adolescents who have grown up in some of Cusco's poorest areas, working in daycare centres, boys' homes, schools and orphanages.
Set off on a life changing and culturally enriching trip around Peru’s most incredible sights! Take in the awe-inspiring views of Machu Picchu, wander through bustling markets, work on your Spanish skills, get to know the local alpaca and explore the wonders of Lake Titicaca!
Every year thousands of dolphins are hunted and killed illegally along the Peruvian coastline. Volunteer help is urgently required on this pioneering programme to protect the dolphins. You will form an integral part of the research team, collecting important information on the dolphin’s distribution areas, their behaviour and interactions.
Join this tour and tick off one of life's 'must do' things - trek the Inca Trail! The programme starts in Lima before heading to the Andes and Macchu Picchu.
A language course is a fantastic way to start your adventure. Learning the language is the best way to make the most out of your volunteer project. The lessons will help you converse with the locals, introduce you to the culture and it's a great way to meet new people.
Discover Peru on a exciting, small group adventure tour. During this 21-day trip you will trek the Inca Trail to discover Machu Picchu, visit the Nazca Lines, Cusco, the Ballestas Islands and much more!
Tour Peru for two weeks soaking up the culture and history of this incredible country. Take a train ride to Machu Picchu, visit Lake Titicaca, discover Colca Canyon and much more!
Janet Horsley had an incredible time on her tailor-made gap year, blazing a trail through Africa, Asia, Australia and Latin America, read her story here.
Gap Year for Grown Ups provides Career Break Voluntary Projects and Culture & Language programmes throughout South America and Central America. They have the best available Community voluntary projects as well as a number of Conservation Volunteer Projects to choose from. Combine these voluntary work placements abroad with learning Spanish in South America.
For useful volunteer travel advice to South America from Gap Year For Grown Ups, use the following links:
