Peru short facts sheet

Full country name: Republic of Peru
Term for Citizens: Peruvian(s).
Capital: Lima
Area: 1.28 million sq km2
Population: 29 million (2004)
People: 54% Indian, 32% Mestizo (mixed European and Indian descent), 12% Spanish descent, 2% other
Language: Castilian (Spanish), Quechua, Aymara.
Religion: Over 50% Catholic, Protestant population, growing number of smaller religions
Government: constitutional republic
Head of State: President Alan García (2006-2011)
Head of Government: Prime Minister Jorge del Castillo
Date of Independence: Declared July 28, 1821, from Spain; achieved, 1824.

Economy

GDP: US$ 56, 900 000 000
GDP per capita: US$ 2, 060
Inflation: 2% (Second smallest in South America)
Major Industries: minerals, fishmeal, tourism, steel, pulp, paper chemicals, oil, cement, auto assembly, shipbuilding.
Major Trading Partners: USA, Japan, UK, China, Germany, Columbia
Currency: Nuevos Soles.
Exchange rate: Ca. 3.22 US$, 4.2 Euros, per Nuevo Sol.

Time zone (-5 H. GMT)

PERU 12 noon
New York 1 pm
London 6 pm
Berlin 7 pm
Paris 7 pm
Sydney 3 am (next day)

Electric power: 220 volts

Health:

A yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if traveling to the jungle. No cases of yellow fever have been reported in a long time. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended on some areas.

Tourist Visas:

For most countries you get an automatic 90 day visa for your visit.

Links to websites with general information on Peru: