Peru

World Book Index

Introduction

Peru, a nation steeped in rich history and cultural diversity, was once the heart of the mighty Inca Empire, which thrived in the Andean region before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in 1533. The conquest marked a significant turning point, leading to centuries of colonial rule. In 1821, Peru declared its independence from Spain, and by 1824, the last remnants of Spanish authority were expelled. Following a tumultuous period characterized by military governance, the country transitioned back to democratic rule in 1980, setting the stage for its modern political landscape.

Neighboring countries

Bolivia - Brazil - Chile - Colombia - Ecuador

Geography

Area
Total: 1,285,216 sq km
Land: 1,279,996 sq km
Water: 5,220 sq km

Peru's geography is as diverse as its culture, featuring a vast expanse that encompasses coastal plains, rugged mountains, and dense rainforests. The country is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, while the Andes mountain range runs through its center, creating a dramatic landscape that varies from tropical climates in the east to arid deserts in the west. The Andes not only influence the climate but also house a wealth of natural resources, including minerals and biodiversity. The eastern region is characterized by the Amazon rainforest, which is crucial for global ecological balance and is rich in flora and fauna.

Climate
Varies from tropical in east to dry desert in west; temperate to frigid in Andes

Natural resources
Copper, silver, gold, petroleum, timber, fish, iron ore, coal, phosphate, potash, hydropower, natural gas

People and Society

Population
Total: 32,600,249 (2024 estimated)

Peru's population is a tapestry of ethnicities, with Mestizos (mixed Indigenous and White) making up 60.2% of the demographic, followed by Indigenous peoples at 25.8%, and Whites at 5.9%. The country also has a notable population of individuals of African descent (3.6%) and those of Asian descent, including Chinese and Japanese (1.2%). This rich ethnic diversity contributes to a vibrant cultural landscape, but it also presents challenges in terms of social cohesion and equitable access to resources. The official languages reflect this diversity, with Spanish being the predominant language spoken by 82.9% of the population, while Quechua and Aymara hold official status as well, highlighting the importance of Indigenous heritage in national identity.

Languages
Spanish (official) 82.9%, Quechua (official) 13.6%, Aymara (official) 1.6%, Ashaninka 0.3%, other native languages (includes many minor Amazonian languages) 0.8%, other 0.2%, none 0.1%, unspecified 0.7% (2017 estimated)

Religions
Catholic 76%, Evangelical Christian 15.7%, no religion 5.1%, other religions 3.2% (2023 estimated)

Population growth rate
0.48% (2024 estimated)

Government

Government type
Presidential republic

Capital
Name: Lima

Peru operates under a presidential republic framework, where the President serves as both the head of state and government. Currently, President Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra has been in office since December 7, 2022, navigating the complexities of governance in a politically dynamic environment. The capital city, Lima, is not only the political heart of the nation but also a cultural and economic hub, reflecting the diverse influences that shape Peruvian society.

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Alfredo Santiago Carlos Ferrero Diez Canseco (since 27 February 2024)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Joan Perkins (since 18 April 2025)

Economy

Economic overview
Peru boasts an upper-middle-income economy characterized by a robust recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, although this rebound is tempered by ongoing political uncertainty and environmental challenges. The economy is heavily reliant on mineral extraction and agriculture, with exports primarily driven by commodities such as copper and gold. However, the presence of a large informal sector and disparities in access to public services pose significant hurdles to inclusive growth. Despite these challenges, Peru maintains a stable fiscal position and a resilient financial sector, which are crucial for sustaining economic development in the long term.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$535.911 billion (2024 estimated)
$518.771 billion (2023 estimated)
$520.872 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$15,700 (2024 estimated)
$15,300 (2023 estimated)
$15,600 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$83.325 billion (2024 estimated)
$72.97 billion (2023 estimated)
$71.39 billion (2022 estimated)

Exports - partners
China 34%, USA 14%, Canada 5%, India 4%, Switzerland 4% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Copper ore, gold, refined copper, refined petroleum, grapes (2023)

Imports
$67.16 billion (2024 estimated)
$63.776 billion (2023 estimated)
$69.936 billion (2022 estimated)

Imports - partners
China 26%, USA 21%, Brazil 7%, Argentina 5%, Mexico 3% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Refined petroleum, crude petroleum, cars, trucks, broadcasting equipment (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.794, ranking it 79th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 65th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 5.959. (more information)