Architecture Addiction, The Official Blog of

While perusing the recently released Architecture Addiction Field Trip to Ancient Peru and Machu Picchu, take a look at some quick facts about Peru

Population:
27.9 million

Size:
1,285,220 square kilometers

Capital:
Lima

Language:
Spanish, Quechua, Aymara

People:
Amerindian (54%), Mestizo (32%), Spanish descent (12%), Japanese (1%), Chinese (1%)

Religion:
Roman Catholic 93%, Protestant (6%)

Temperatures
Average monthly high temperatures in Lima (°F)

Jan    79
Feb    80
Mar    80
Apr    76
May    72
Jun    69
Jul    67
Aug    66
Sep    67
Oct    69
Nov    72
Dec    76

Geography:
Peru is geologically diverse. It is divided into three main regions—costa (coast), sierra (highlands) and selva (jungle). It spans from the Pacific Ocean to the snowcapped Andes mountains to the tropical Amazon rainforests. In addition to its Pacific coastline, Peru borders Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia and Chile.

Climate:
Peru has a temperate climate. Average temperatures range from 55-65 Fahrenheit in August to 66-82 degrees Fahrenheit in February. Temperatures and climate do vary considerably from up in the Andes to the tropical Amazon rainforest. Flora and Fauna: As it is geologically diverse, Peru is extremely ecologically diverse. The country is home to more than 400 species of mammals, 300 species of reptiles, 2,000 species of birds and 50,000 species of plants.

Culture:
The Peruvian culture is a stunning blend of the ancient Incan tradition and the more recent Spanish influence. The Incan past is evident in the remains of their advanced civilization, most notably at the legendary city of Machu Picchu.

Government:
Peru is a constitutional Republic. Alejandro Toledo is the president, acting as both the chief of state and head of government.

Food:
Peruvian cuisine is varied to match its diverse geological makeup and remains a blend of indigenous and European influences. On the coast, the focus is on seafood and shellfish. In the highlands, you’ll find more meat, rice, corn and potatoes. In the Amazon jungles, the mainstays are river fish, especially trout.

Clothing:
Light, loose-fitting layers with lightweight, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. A lightweight jacket and emergency rainwear is advised. Most Peruvians do not wear shorts except on the beach.

Health:
It is strongly advised that you drink only bottled water or other bottled beverages while traveling in Peru; avoid tap water. It is also advisable to avoid fresh fruits and vegetables except those that can be peeled.

Shopping:
Textile weaving and pottery make for great shopping items. Visitors often go home with handmade wool sweaters, scarves, blankets or hats, as well as ceramic pieces created in the ancient Incan tradition.

Money:
Currency is the nuevo sol. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Tipping:
As a rule of thumb, tip waiters 10% and an additional 5% or some extra coins for good service. There is no need to tip taxi drivers. It is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a token of appreciation at the tour’s end. We recommend $2 per person per day for the driver and $3-5 per person per day for your Tour Director.

Passport/visa:
A valid passport is required, but no visa is necessary.

Time:
Five hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. If it’s noon in New York, it’s 11:00 am in Peru.

Electricity:
220 volts, 60 cycles AC with two-prong outlets that accept both flat and round prongs. Some large hotels also have 110-volt outlets.