(Spanish Lima).

Every person, even remotely, has heard of the incomprehensible and amazing ancient civilization of the Incas, about the mysterious, where it is unknown by whom and for what gigantic figures were created, which can only be seen from a bird's eye view. Surely, many have heard about the unexplored, full of secrets, about the marvelous relict lake and the captivating chocolate-colored Creoles. This is all - the extraordinary country of Peru.

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general information

Peru is subdivided into 25 departments (+ Lima, which does not belong to any department) and 159 provinces, which in turn consist of 1833 regions.

State. device : Presidential Republic. The head of state is the president, who is elected for a term of 5 years, and ministers are appointed by him. The current president is (Spanish: Martín Alberto Vizcarra), who replaced him in this post in April 2018. Legislative power is exercised by a unicameral Congress of 120 congressmen. Executive power in the country is exercised by the President and prime ministers, judicial power is exercised by the Supreme Court and local judicial bodies.

Official language: Spanish, Aymara and Quechua. In some areas, Aymara and various Indian dialects are spoken. At the airport, in cities, travel agencies, large hotels and shops you will be understood by English language, but in general it is practically not used in the country. About 2 million Peruvians do not speak any of the "European" languages.

Religion: The official religion is Roman Catholicism (90% of the population are Catholics). In general, there is freedom of religion here, the remaining 10% are Protestants, Christians, Adventists, representatives of Judaism and Islam. It should be noted that the local population is mega-religious! In kindergartens and schools, religion is studied as separate subject. It is also customary in families to talk a lot about the "word of God."

Currency: Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN).

Favorite sports games: football, volleyball, basketball.

Time: 9 hours behind Moscow in summer, 8 hours in winter.

Population of Peru

The population of Peru is about 32.2 million people (as of 2018), of which more than 9 million people are residents of Lima. Today, the country is ethnically represented by 3 main groups:

• Hispanic Peruvians;

Moreover, 47% of the population, that is, about half of the population, are Indians. Also here live "forest Indians" and foreigners - immigrants from Europe and Asia. Spanish-speaking representatives make up the majority of the population of the Costa and the urban inhabitants of the Sierra and. The rural areas of the Sierra and Selva are inhabited by Indians. The number of foreigners is relatively small, the largest groups - Chinese and Japanese - live in cities.

A bit of history

There are many different opinions regarding the education of Peru. The oldest excavations with traces of human activity date back to the 15th century BC. For many centuries before the birth of Christ, powerful civilizations flourished on these lands, after which cities and treasures of art remained in the form of ceramics, metals, fabrics and various objects that are today exhibited in the world's largest museums.

Of all the cultures of antiquity that existed on the territory of the modern country, one stands out (which flourished around the 15th century), which once covered almost the entire South American continent. Until today, the monuments of this mighty civilization are admired by countless tourists.

The new history of the country is connected with who landed in 1532 on the coast of Peru. The country was then in a recovery stage from devastation and chaos after civil war, walking 5 years. Instantly taking advantage of the situation, the Spaniards launched an Indian legend that predicted the appearance of high white gods - messengers of the Sun. The divinity of the Spaniards was confirmed by their outlandish weapons, beautiful sailing ships and previously unseen by the Indians "terrible" horses. On November 16, 1532, the treacherous Pizarro invited the Inca emperor to negotiate in the city of Cajamarca. This meeting turned out to be a trap - the Spaniards met the emperor with his numerous guards with volleys of cannons and a cavalry attack. Although there were only 180 people in Pizarro's detachment, thousands of Indians from the emperor's retinue were taken by surprise by firearms and an unexpected attack and ruthlessly destroyed.

The Inca emperor himself was taken prisoner. For the life of his life, the emperor offered the conquistadors an unprecedented ransom in history - to fill with gold to the height of raised hands a large room in which they kept the crowned prisoner! The ransom amounted to an incredible, fantastic amount for that time - about 60 centners of gold and 120 centners of silver. Europe has never seen so much gold before! But when the Indians brought the ransom, the emperor was immediately hanged. The death of Atahualpa led to the collapse of the Inca Empire. Having set off on a campaign, the Spaniards plundered everything they came across, destroying palaces, temples and beautiful works of art along the way. Enslaving the Indians, they forced them to work in the mines.

Machu Picchu. This ancient stone city in the sky is called the "Lost City of the Incas".

Formed the basis of the social structure of the Incas, Agriculture fell into disrepair, and the ancient aqueducts suffered the same fate. The colonialists planted Catholicism everywhere, proteges of Europe kept the country in an iron grip, appropriating all the resources. Despite this, the culture of the Indians did not disappear. Having undergone some changes, the traditions remained alive. Surprisingly, in remote villages, most Indians still communicate in Quechua and Aymara languages. Of course, since the time of the Incas, the outfits of the Indians have changed significantly, but the holidays and traditional rituals have been preserved.

In the valley of the Rimac River, Pizarro founded the city of Lima. As Lima developed and prospered, religious fanaticism spread and strengthened. Together with the Spanish clergy, the Holy Inquisition invaded Peru, which rampaged from 1570 to 1761. If in the history of Lima the 17th century was a period of religious fanaticism, then the 18th century became the era of romance, in which poetry reigned, art and lavish balls. But at the same time, the anti-Spanish movement was gaining strength, calls for liberation from expansion were heard more and more actively. The Spaniards ruled the country for almost 300 years. Early XIX century was marked by a revolution, and on July 28, 1821, independence was proclaimed. But the Spaniards came back to power in June 1823. In 1824, troops from the north invaded Peru, who was an associate. They finally defeated the Spanish colonizers.

Bolivar divided the country into two states - Peru and (named after him). Bolivar ruled in Peru, and appointed Sucre as ruler of Bolivia.

The main changes among the Peruvians took place in the middle of the century, when Ramon Castilla became the president of the country. After all, it was during the reign of Castilla in Lima that utilities were founded, which were engaged in water supply and lighting of city streets, and the first on the mainland was also built. Railway, which connected Lima with the port. The President of Castilla abolished slavery and prepared for the adoption of the Constitution of 1860. However, despite the chain of turbulent events of the 19th century, the majority of the population, the indigenous Indians living in the mountains, the way of life remained the same as in the 17th century. The two worlds existing in Peru, "Indian" and "European", were increasingly moving away from each other.

Since 1962, various military regimes have ruled here, coming to power as a result of coups. From the late 1980s, free multi-party elections began to be held, but this did not lead to civilian rule.

Geographic location and climate

It borders on the South American states: in the north - with and, in the south - with, in the east - with Bolivia and Brazil. Western border is Sandy shore Pacific Ocean. The Peruvian Andes stretching from north to south and the tropical forests that cover the Amazon Valley occupy a significant part of the republic.

The whole territory is divided into 3 natural and climatic zones:

• : coast, 12% - a strip of sandy deserts (80 - 150 km wide), which runs along the entire Pacific coast.
• : mountainous region, 30% - a zone located in the central region of the country, these are vast high-altitude plateaus and steep canyons.
• : jungle, 58% - area of ​​moist forests covering the northeast.

most high point is the peak of Nevado Huascaran - 6768 m.

The country is distinguished by a huge variety of climatic conditions (out of 32 types of climate on the planet, 28 occur in Peru), ecosystems, there are 3 different geographical zones.

The weather conditions of different Peruvian regions differ significantly from each other.

In the western regions, the tropical desert type of climate prevails, in the east - subequatorial, and in the mountainous regions, the altitude of the terrain affects the climatic conditions.

In the west, due to the cold Peruvian Current, passing off the coast of the country, the climate of the Costa is arid. Since the coastal plain, in fact, is a northern continuation, the average annual precipitation here falls from 10 to 50 mm. The driest and hottest season is December - April, during this period precipitation may not be observed at all. The average February t during the day ranges from + 26°C in the south (up to +20°C at night) to + 36°C in the north (+24°C at night). IN winter time(June-August) during the day air temperatures warm up to +19°C and +28°C, respectively, at night they drop to +13°C and +17°C.

The farther east, in mountainous areas, the more the temperature drops. On the slopes of the peaks, at an altitude of more than 4 thousand meters, frosts are observed at night even in summer. In the summer in the Sierra, the average daytime temperatures are +19-21°C (at night from +4 to +6°C). In the period June-August, the average daytime temperature is +16-18°C, at night - from +6 to -2°C. During the year in the Andes, 700-900 mm of precipitation falls on the western slopes, and up to 2000 mm on the eastern slopes. Here April-October is the dry season.

The Selva is always humid and hot. Summer daytime air temperatures reach +34°C, at night - up to +24°C. In winter, the air warms up to +30°C during the day, and drops to +20°C at night. The rainy season in tropical forests lasts from November to March, with an average annual precipitation of about 3800 mm.

Largest cities

City *According to the 2014 census. Some interesting facts

In Peru, tourists will see ancient land Incas, temples of the pre-Inca period, the Amazon rainforest, the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, the relict Lake Titicaca, the mysterious petroglyphs in the Nazca desert, museums in Lima, which the locals call the "City of Kings", as well as condors soaring majestically over the Colca Canyon. In this ancient country There are also good beaches on the Pacific coast.

Geography of Peru

Peru is located in the west of South America. Peru borders Colombia and Ecuador to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, and Chile to the south. In the west, the country is washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Total area - 1,285,216 sq. km., and the total length state border- 5,536 km.

In the west there is a narrow coastal plain, in the east there is a flat area covered with tropical forests (jungle), and the rest of the country is occupied by the Andes mountain system. The highest local peak is Mount Huascaran, whose height reaches 6,768 meters.

Most Peruvian rivers originate in the Andes mountains. They fall into Pacific Ocean, into Lake Titicaca, and are also tributaries of the Amazon River.

Earthquakes occur quite often in Peru, however, most of them are not destructive.

Capital

Lima is the capital of Peru. More than 8 million people now live in this city. Lima was founded by the Spaniards in 1535.

Official language of Peru

Peru has several official languages ​​- Spanish and the languages ​​​​of local Indians (where they live compactly).

Religion

Most of the inhabitants of this country are Catholics.

State structure

According to the Constitution, Peru is a presidential republic, headed by a President elected for 5 years. The president acts as head of state and head of government. His functions also include the appointment of the Prime Minister.

The unicameral local parliament is called the Congress, it consists of 130 deputies, also elected for 5 years.

The main political parties are the Union for Peru, the Peruvian Aprista Party, the National Unity Party and the Alliance for the Future.

Administratively, the country is divided into 25 regions and one province with the center in Lima. Regions are further subdivided into districts.

Climate and weather

The climate in Peru is varied, ranging from subtropical and tropical to alpine in the Andes. It is the Andes, as well as the Humboldt Current, that have a decisive influence on the local climate.

The best time to visit this country is the Peruvian winter (June-September), when there is little rainfall.

During the Peruvian summer (November-March) it rains very often. The temperature is higher than in summer, but it can get very cold at night. The most unpredictable seasons are spring (April-May) and autumn (October).

Seas and oceans of Peru

In the west, the country is washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. The length of the sea coast is 2,414 km. The average sea temperature near the coast is from +14C to +19C.

Rivers and lakes

The sources of most Peruvian rivers begin in the Andes mountains. They flow into the Pacific Ocean, into Lake Titicaca or are tributaries of the Amazon. The longest local rivers are the Ucayali (1,771 km), the Marañon (1,414 km), the Putumayo (1,380 km), the Zhavari (1,184 km) and the Huallaga (1,138 km).

In the southeast, near the border with Bolivia, is the mountain lake Titicaca with fresh water. Its area is 8300 sq. km.

Culture of Peru

The culture of Peru was formed under the influence of the traditions of local Indians and Spaniards. The traditions and customs of many ethnic groups coexist in this country. As in any other country in South America, Peru has a huge number of festivals, fiestas and holidays, most of which are, of course, of a religious nature.

In February, for example, there is a fiesta in Puno in honor of the Blessed Virgin of La Candelaria, in April there are fiestas throughout the country in honor of Good Friday and Easter, in July there is a fiesta in Paucartambo in honor of the Virgin of El Carmen, and in October in Lima - Fiesta of the Lord of Miracles.

On June 24, Peruvians celebrate the summer solstice Inti Raimi, which has its roots in Inca tradition.

Also very interesting are the Marinera Dance Festival in La Libertad, the Spring Festival in Trujillo and the wine festival of La Vendimina.

Kitchen

The territory of Peru is geographically divided into three regions - the mountainous, the jungle and the coastal region. Peruvian cuisine can be divided along the same lines.

In coastal areas, fish and seafood dishes predominate. The traditional dish there is "Ceviche", which is fish marinated in lemon or lime juice with coriander, garlic and onions. Such fish is served with corn, potatoes or seaweed.

In mountainous areas, the emphasis is on meat dishes. The traditional dish of the Peruvians in the mountains is "Pachamanca" (meat baked in its own juice in a hole in the ground, seasoned with spices). Such meat is often served with potatoes.

In the cuisine of the Peruvian jungle, the emphasis is on vegetables, fruits and meat. In the jungle region, Peruvians eat every day a large number of fruits, including camu camu fruits, which contain a huge amount of vitamin C.

Traditional non-alcoholic drinks are coca leaf tea (it is not a drug, it is sometimes drunk cold, but most often hot), herbal or fruit tea "Emoliente", a drink "Chicha morada" from purple corn with sugar and spices.

Traditional alcoholic drinks are Pisco (traditional Peruvian vodka), Chicha de jora (traditional corn alcoholic drink), wine and beer.

Sights of Peru

Tourists in Peru are waiting for a lot of interesting sights. These are, for example, the relic lake Titicaca, medieval palaces and churches, petroglyphs in the Nazca desert, fortresses and cities of the Incas, temples of the pre-Inca period and much more. The Top 10 most interesting Peruvian attractions, in our opinion, may include the following:

1. Inca Religious Center Sacsayhuaman
2. Lake Titicaca
3. Religious center of the pre-Inca period Pachacamac
4. Petroglyphs in the Nazca Desert
5. Sacred city of the Incas Machu Picchu
6. Ruins of the ancient Indian city of Chan Chan
7. Cathedral of Santo Domingo in Lima
8. Megalithic sculptures on the plateau of Marcahuasi
9. Capital of the Inca Empire Cusco
10. Inca fortress Pisac

Of great interest to tourists are Peruvian National parks and reserves - the Manu Biosphere Reserve, the Batan Grande Ecological Reserve, and the Bahuaha Sonone and Maididi National Parks.

Cities and resorts

The largest cities are Lima, Arequipa, Callao, Trujillo, Chiclayo, Iquitos and Piura.

Peruvian beach resorts are not as famous as resorts in Ecuador and Colombia, for example, but this country has some very beautiful beaches surrounded by the Andes. The most popular local beach resorts are Picasmayo, Chicama, Paracas, La Pimentel, Tumbesa, Trujillo and Lima. The best time to relax on Peruvian beaches is January-March.

Many believe that the best Peruvian beach is Punta Sal, located in the north of the country near the border with Ecuador. Another popular local beach is Mancora. Both of these beaches present excellent opportunities for water sports, especially surfing.

Tourists in Peru are also offered a large number of historical and ecological excursion tours. During these sightseeing tours, tourists visit the villages of local Indians, see ancient Indian archaeological complexes, observe unique animals and birds, get acquainted with the lifestyle of local residents, and try traditional Indian dishes.

There are many therapeutic thermal baths in the Peruvian mountains, which are visited by thousands of tourists with pleasure.

Souvenirs/Shopping

Tourists in Peru buy handicrafts, jewelry, clothes (sweaters, hats, scarves) made of alpaca wool, carpets, wooden chess with figures of the Incas and conquistadors, traditional Peruvian pisco vodka.

Office Hours

Banks:
Mon-Fri: 09:00-18:00 (most banks close for siesta from 13:00 to 15:00)
Sat: 09:00-12:00

The shops:
Mon-Sat: 09:00-17:00/18:00
Some banks are also open on Sundays, but only until noon.

Visa

Ukrainians who want to travel to Peru for up to 3 months do not need a visa.

Currency of Peru

Geography. Peru is the third largest country in South America. The area of ​​the state is 1,285,216 sq. km, more than 23 million people live on its territory. Chile borders Brazil and Bolivia in the south of Peru, Colombia and Ecuador in the north, and the Pacific Ocean in the west of Peru.

Capital of Peru This is Lima. Big cities: Cajamarca, Arequipa, Huancayo, Trujillo, Cusco, Pisco. The main resort areas and tourist centers: Lake Titicaca, Chiclayo, Machu Picchu, Iquitos.

Population. Regarding national composition, then it is divided in this way: Indians - 50%, mestizos and the white race - 35%, the eastern race and blacks - 15%. And although the Indians are the most here, Peru general information tourists are warned not to call the residents that way, as it is an insult to them.

Official language- this is Quechua and Spanish, in some areas there are other Indian dialects. If you use English for communication, then the travel agency and the airport will understand you, but in general, it does not apply here.

Religion in Peru- the vast majority of the population are Catholics, but the country is generally free of religion.

Time. In Peru, time is 7 hours behind Kyiv time.

Currency- this is "nuevo sol", that is, New salt. 1 dollar equals approximately 3.5 new soles. Important world currencies can be exchanged at banks (9:15-18:00) from Monday to Friday and (9:30-12:00) on Saturday. Peru helpful information reports that there may be problems with the exchange of old and fear of banknotes. Regarding credit cards, they can only be serviced in the capital or large tourist centers.

Climate. Peru has two distinct seasons: wet (November to April) and dry (May to October). But weather in different regions of the state differ significantly. On the coast, the temperature during the year is +16 - +25 degrees, while winter falls on June to September. In mountain areas, the temperature in winter is below zero, and sometimes minus, while in summer it can be +7 degrees. The tops of the mountains are always covered with snow and glaciers.

Visa regime, fees and customs regulations. Ukrainian citizens do not need a visa to enter the state for 90 days. Before boarding the plane, you will be given customs and border forms to fill out. Passing through the border control, a copy of the card is given, it must be kept for the period of stay in the state. Peru useful information warns, in case of loss you will be forced to pay a fine. When filling out the declaration, you should not specify that, for example, your camera costs about a thousand dollars, because the customs officers will be able to ask you to pay a fee. It is forbidden to import non-preserved foodstuffs, weapons, drugs, and without the permission of things and objects that have archaeological, historical or artistic value. When exporting products and wool, fur, leather, as well as jewelry, you may be asked at customs for a receipt from the store where these items were purchased. Fees are paid for each flight before boarding. For international flights - it's 28 dollars, for domestic - 7.

Tourists will also benefit from the following Peru general information.

Useful Information Peru

Electricity. In hotels, the voltage is 220V, sockets for 110V are less common. Peru useful information advises to take with you an electrical adapter for chargers.

Vaccinations to this country are not mandatory. They are only advised when visiting the Amazon.

Nutrition. Cuisine of Peru is the best cuisine in Latin America. The basis of the dishes are seafood, fish, fruits and sauces. The signature dish of the restaurants is fresh fish - "sebiche", marinated in lemon juice, plus marinated meat grilled over coals. Eating in a restaurant, pay attention to such dishes: rice in a pot "in Peru", "saltado", "arros con choclo", "soupa a la creola", lentil soup, "carapulcra".

Purchases. Many stores in Peru are open seven days a week from 9:00 to 00:00. Some supermarkets in the capital are open until 22:00 or around the clock. Bargain in the markets. Vacationers bring jewelry, ceramics, handmade silver fakes, alpaca wool products, llamas, and pottery as souvenirs.

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