Impressive facts about Peru! - Peru is one of the most popular destinations in South America. The country is surrounded by Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil and Bolivia to the east and Chile to the south. It attracts millions of visitors every year for many reasons, including its abundant nature (it has the most biodiversity in the world), archaeological attractions, delicious food and giant waves. Learn more fun facts about Peru in the gallery!

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Machu Picchu - In 2007, this site was named one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is located 2,400 meters above sea level in the Andean Cordillera. It was built during the Inca Empire in the 15th century and its various rock structures are now in ruins.

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Amazon is part of Peru - Brazil is not the only country that contains the beautiful Amazon rain forest. The Amazon is one of the 25 regions of Peru. The capital of the region is Chachapoyas and it measures 39,000 square kilometers.

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Lima - The capital of Peru was considered the most powerful city in South America. It lost its prestige after the Spanish created a viceroyalty in Rio de la Plata in 1776.

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Spanish is the official language - Quechua and Aymara are also widely spoken. It is estimated that the natives of the country speak more than 13 different languages. The population includes descendants from the Americas, Europe, Africa and in lesser quantities, the Arab League and Japan.

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Fine cuisine - One of the most appreciated cuisines in the world is from Peru. The country is well-known for the dish, ceviche, and the diverse and flavorful food is an inspiration for many chefs all over the world.

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Guinea pig is Peruvian! - This is one of the most traditional dishes of Peru. They call it 'cuy.'

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Chicha morada - This is a very popular drink. It is made from the juice of purple corn.

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Pisco sour - This is the symbolic drink of Peru. The Peruvians even set aside a day every year to commemorate it. Starting in 2004, Pisco Sour Day became a holiday celebrated on the first Saturday of February.

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Mysterious lines - Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, the intricate designs in the Nazca Desert can only be seen from above. The famous lines were formed more than a thousand years ago and there still exists some controversy about how they were made. Some believe that they were tracks made by UFOs but scientists think that they played a part in ancient rituals.

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Most biodiversity in the world - Peru has 90 different microclimates.

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Largest canyon in the world - Cotahuasi is the deepest canyon in the world at 4,740 meters.

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Do you see a face? - The Quechua people believe that any site where they can see a face is special. This face in Ollantaytambo is sinister...

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Uru - These are the humble homes of the people that live on the floating islands. They were built with reeds from Titicaca lake.

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Titicaca - This lake is located in the south of Peru and is one of the highest in the world at 3,800 meters above sea level. It is also the largest lake of South America, with 8,300 square kilometers.

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Cusco - This city was built between the 12th and 16th centuries and was considered the most important city during the Inca Empire. It governed the Andean Cordillera.

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Popular with surfers - The north of Peru is frequented by surfers. Chicama, Punta Rocas, Mancora and Pico Alto are known for their giant waves. The best time of year to surf is between October and March.

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Colorful - Corn can be found in 55 different varieties and in many colors, such as purple, black, white and the common yellow.

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All types of potatoes! - There are more than 3,000 varieties of potatoes in the country.

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Chinese population - Peru has the largest Chinese community in Latin America. Lima is known for its Chinatown (the typical Chinese neighborhood).

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Cotton - Pima and Tanguis are considered two of the highest quality cotton fibers in the world and they originate from Peru.

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Yellow on new years - Peruvians wear yellow underwear on New Year's Eve. According to Inca tradition, it represents change and rebirth.

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Iconic animal - The llama, relative of the camel, is one of the most emblematic animal of the country.

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Llamas - This animal is beautiful, adorable and charismatic but can be mean. When irritated, it kicks, butts, spits and attacks with its neck.

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Inca Kola! - This is the most popular soft drink in the country and is made from Lemon Beebrush. The taste is incredibly sweet and foreigners either love it or hate it. The brand was bought by Coca-Cola as it was one of their greatest competitors in the country.

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Mario Vargas Llosa - On 7 October, 2010, the writer received a Nobel Prize in Literature.

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Let there be breath! - If you need to go to the bank and are in Macusani, the closest bank is located 4,387 meters above sea level. It is also the highest altitude bank in the world.

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Maras - The region contains 3,000 salt pans and salt extraction is still carried out using ancient techniques. The salt is obtained after evaporating the salty water from underground streams.

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Gold - The country is the sixth largest producer of gold in the world.

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Susana Baca - She is one of the most prestigious Peruvian singers. She received two Latin Grammy Awards and was the first artist in Peru to be nominated for a Grammy.

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