DID YOU KNOW? 10 FACTS ABOUT PERU

1. The Incas' Ancient Marvel: Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, known as the "Lost City of the Incas," is perched 7,972 feet (2,430 meters) high in the Andes Mountains. While its purpose remains a mystery, it's believed to be a royal estate or a sacred retreat for Inca rulers. The site's architectural marvels include precisely cut stones, intricate terraces, and an astronomical observatory. The famous Intihuatana stone, an ancient ritual stone associated with astronomy and spiritual ceremonies, adds to the mystery of this ancient city.

2. Floating Islands of Lake Titicaca

The Uros people of Lake Titicaca have created an astonishing world on floating islands constructed entirely of totora reeds. These islands are constantly maintained by adding fresh layers of reeds. The Uros people rely on the lake for their livelihood, catching fish and crafting intricate reed handicrafts, which they often trade with visitors. The islands are a testament to the human spirit of adaptation and ingenuity, as the Uros have lived on these islands for centuries.

3. Nazca Lines: Ancient Geoglyphs

The Nazca Lines are an artistic and archaeological enigma etched into the Peruvian desert floor over a thousand years ago. These enormous geoglyphs cover an area of about 50 miles and include various designs like a hummingbird, monkey, and a spider. These drawings are astonishingly precise and can only be fully appreciated from above. The purpose behind their creation remains a subject of debate; some believe they have astronomical significance, while others think they are related to ancient rituals.

4. World's Highest Navigable Lake

Lake Titicaca, with its breathtaking blue waters, is the world's highest navigable lake. It's surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and its high altitude adds to its unique charm. The lake is not only famous for its beauty but also steeped in history and tradition. The indigenous communities living around the lake have preserved their culture and traditions, including the use of traditional reed boats called "totora."

5. Peru's Biodiversity: Amazon Rainforest

Peru's Amazon rainforest is a biological treasure trove. It's home to an estimated 10% of the world's known species. The rainforest teems with life, from jaguars and macaws to countless insect species. It's also where you'll find a host of unique flora, including medicinal plants and vibrant orchids. Scientists continue to make new discoveries here, emphasizing the vital importance of preserving this biodiversity hotspot.

6. Cusco: Navel of the World

Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, holds the distinction of being the "Navel of the World." Its well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the city, you'll find stunning colonial architecture built upon Inca foundations. Cusco's central square, the Plaza de Armas, is a bustling hub where locals and visitors gather. While exploring Cusco, don't miss the Coricancha, the Inca Sun Temple, with its impressive stone walls and the Spanish Santo Domingo Convent built atop it.

7. The Birthplace of the Potato

Peru is the birthplace of the potato, offering a staggering diversity of over 4,000 different varieties. Potatoes are a staple in Peruvian cuisine, with each type offering a unique taste and texture. Some are used for traditional dishes like causa and papa a la huancaina, while others are integral to the famous pachamanca feast, where food is cooked in an underground stone oven.

8. World's Deepest Canyon: Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States, is a remarkable natural wonder. It plunges to a depth of 13,650 feet (4,160 meters) and is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant terraced fields, and herds of alpacas and llamas. The highlight for visitors is the chance to see Andean condors, the world's largest flying birds, soaring on thermal updrafts above the canyon's walls.

9. Amazon River's Source

The Amazon River, the planet's most voluminous river, begins its epic journey in southern Peru. It's born from a glacial stream high in the Andes known as Nevado Mismi. As the river flows through Peru, it gathers water from numerous tributaries, transforming into the powerful and life-sustaining force we recognize as it continues its journey through Brazil.

10. Ceviche: Peru's Culinary Treasure

Ceviche, the pride of Peruvian cuisine, is a delectable dish that showcases the country's rich culinary heritage. Fresh seafood, typically fish or shrimp, is "cooked" in a marinade of lime or lemon juice and spiced with aji peppers. It's a refreshing, tangy, and flavorsome treat that reflects the vibrant food culture of Peru. Each region of the country has its own unique take on ceviche, adding to its culinary diversity.