Peru is a country full of surprises, rich in history and culture. From the majestic Andes Mountains to the fascinating wildlife of the Amazon rainforest, there is so much to learn about this beautiful South American nation. Many people know about Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city, but Peru has many other interesting facts that will amaze you. Did you know that Peru is home to over 3,000 varieties of potatoes? Or that it is the birthplace of the famous dish, ceviche? There is a lot more to Peru than meets the eye!
Today, we take a look at some fun and interesting trivia about Peru. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just curious about this vibrant country, these fun facts will give you a new appreciation for Peru and its unique culture. From its stunning landscapes to its delicious food, there are endless reasons to be fascinated by Peru. So, get ready to learn something new, and let’s uncover the trivia that makes Peru a remarkable place on our planet!
Peru Trivia
Discovering Peru’s Hidden Gems
1. What is the capital city of Peru? (Answer: Lima)
2. Which ancient civilization built Machu Picchu? (Answer: The Inca civilization)
3. What is Peru’s official language? (Answer: Spanish)
4. Which famous jewelry artifacts are associated with the Inca civilization? (Answer: Inca gold)
5. What year did Peru gain independence? (Answer: 1821)
6. What is the main river that runs through the Amazon rainforest in Peru? (Answer: The Amazon River)
7. What mountain range runs through Peru? (Answer: The Andes Mountains)
8. The Nazca Lines are located in which region of Peru? (Answer: Nazca)
9. What ancient city is known as the “Lost City of the Incas”? (Answer: Machu Picchu)
10. What UNESCO World Heritage Site can be found in Peru, famous for its geoglyphs? (Answer: The Nazca Lines)
Culinary Delights of Peru
1. What is the traditional Peruvian dish made of raw fish marinated in citrus juices? (Answer: Ceviche)
2. What type of corn is commonly used to make Peruvian chicha? (Answer: Purple corn)
3. Which potato is famous for being grown in the high altitudes of Peru? (Answer: Olluco)
4. What is the name of the beverage made from fermented corn in Peru? (Answer: Chicha morada)
5. What dish is made with tender beef cooked with onions and tomatoes and served with rice? (Answer: Lomo saltado)
6. Which nut is considered a superfood and is grown in the Amazon region of Peru? (Answer: Brazil nut)
7. What popular Peruvian dish consists of grilled meat skewers? (Answer: Anticuchos)
8. What is the main ingredient in the Peruvian dish causa? (Answer: Mashed potatoes)
9. What fruit is often used in Peruvian desserts and drinks, known for its bright color and exotic taste? (Answer: Lucuma)
10. Which traditional Peruvian dish features layers of beef, potatoes, and olives baked in a casserole? (Answer: Pastel de papa)
The Rich Culture of Peru
1. What dance is recognized as the national dance of Peru? (Answer: Marinera)
2. Which festival is celebrated in June to honor Inti, the sun god? (Answer: Inti Raymi)
3. What type of traditional music is often played with charango in Peru? (Answer: Folk music)
4. What is the name of the traditional woven fabric made by indigenous people in Peru? (Answer: Alpaca fabric)
5. Which Peruvian festival celebrates the harvest and is known for colorful parades? (Answer: Fiesta de la Vendimia)
6. What traditional Andean drink is made from coca leaves? (Answer: Coca tea)
7. What is the name of the famous Peruvian hand-woven textiles known for their vibrant colors? (Answer: Andean textiles)
8. Which ancient Peruvian civilization is famous for their advanced agricultural techniques? (Answer: The Nazca)
9. What is the traditional Peruvian game played with a wooden hoop and a stick? (Answer: Takanakuy)
10. Which ceremonial dance is performed to celebrate the Andean New Year? (Answer: Huaylas)
Wildlife Wonders of Peru
1. What is the national animal of Peru? (Answer: The vicuña)
2. What famous bird can be found in the Amazon rainforest known for its vibrant colors? (Answer: Macaw)
3. Which mammal is known for its swimming abilities in the Amazon River? (Answer: Pink river dolphin)
4. What Peruvian animal is known for its long silky hair and is domesticated for its wool? (Answer: Alpaca)
5. What reptile is commonly found in the Amazon Rainforest of Peru? (Answer: Green anaconda)
6. Which endangered species can be found in the cloud forests of Peru? (Answer: Spectacled bear)
7. What type of monkey is commonly spotted in the Amazon rainforest? (Answer: Squirrel monkey)
8. What rare bird is endemic to the cloud forests of Peru and known for its unique call? (Answer: Andean cock-of-the-rock)
9. What critically endangered species is found in the coast of Peru? (Answer: Peruvian Tern)
10. What insects make their home in the Amazon rainforest and are known for their vibrant colors? (Answer: Butterflies)
The Ancient Civilizations of Peru
1. What ancient civilization is known for the Nazca Lines? (Answer: Nazca civilization)
2. Which civilization is famous for its extensive network of roads and trails throughout Peru? (Answer: Inca civilization)
3. What is the name of the large ceremonial center built by the Moche civilization? (Answer: Huacas del Sol y de la Luna)
4. Which ancient Peruvian culture is known for their pottery and textiles? (Answer: Paracas culture)
5. What ancient site in Peru is dedicated to the worship of the moon? (Answer: Kotosh)
6. What was the Inca Empire’s capital called? (Answer: Cusco)
7. What is the name of the Inca road network that connected various regions of the empire? (Answer: Qhapaq Ñan)
8. Which civilization is considered to be one of the earliest agricultural societies in Peru? (Answer: Caral civilization)
9. What is the ceremonial center constructed by the Tiwanaku culture in southern Peru? (Answer: Pumapunku)
10. Which civilization is known for creating sophisticated irrigation systems in Peru? (Answer: Moche civilization)
Natural Wonders of Peru
1. What is the highest peak in Peru? (Answer: Huascarán)
2. What natural landmark is famous for its rainbow-colored mountains? (Answer: Vinicunca)
3. Which famous natural reserve is home to hundreds of bird species in Peru? (Answer: Manu National Park)
4. Which lake is known for its floating islands in Peru? (Answer: Lake Titicaca)
5. What is the name of the largest rainforest in the world, part of which is in Peru? (Answer: The Amazon rainforest)
6. Which geographical feature forms a natural border between Peru and Chile? (Answer: The Andes Mountains)
7. What unique natural formation is known as the “Stone Forest” in Peru? (Answer: The Huayllay National Sanctuary)
8. What coastal desert is home to unique wildlife, including the Peru penguin? (Answer: The Sechura Desert)
9. What is the name of the highest navigable lake in the world, located on the border of Peru and Bolivia? (Answer: Lake Titicaca)
10. Which canyon is known as one of the deepest in the world and located in Peru? (Answer: Colca Canyon)
The Mysteries of Peru
1. What is the main theory regarding the purpose of the Nazca Lines in Peru? (Answer: Astronomical alignment)
2. What ancient Inca site is known for its advanced engineering and mysterious construction? (Answer: Sacsayhuamán)
3. Which lost city of the Incas remains hidden in the mountain forests? (Answer: Machu Picchu)
4. What mystery surrounds the construction methods used by ancient cultures in Peru? (Answer: Precision stonework)
5. What unsolved mystery involves ancient mummies found in the Andes? (Answer: Chachapoya mummies)
6. Whose identity remains a mystery among ancient Peruvian cultures? (Answer: The origins of the Nazca people)
7. What is the legend of the Inca gold hidden in the mountains? (Answer: El Dorado)
8. What mysterious ancient fortress is located near Cusco, known for its immense stone walls? (Answer: Ollantaytambo)
9. What is one archaeological site believed to have been a ceremonial center for the Wari civilization? (Answer: Huari)
10. What architectural mystery surrounds the construction of the temple known as Coricancha? (Answer: Advanced technology)
Final Thoughts
Peru truly is a treasure trove of culture and history, with its diverse landscapes, unique wildlife, and ancient civilizations. From the delicious culinary delights to the mysterious ancient structures, every aspect of Peru offers fascinating insights into its rich heritage. Whether you’re learning about the wildlife wonders or exploring the mysteries of the Nazca Lines, Peru will leave you in awe. We hope you enjoyed this collection of trivia, which highlights why Peru is such an incredible destination to explore. If you are interested in more trivia, be sure to check out our travel trivia or even dive into some entertaining South Park trivia.
Continue exploring the world and uncovering amazing facts!