peru

Peru

This week's news

Peru`s Sol Drops for Third Day as Copper Falls on Growth Concern

Travel

Lagunar Pachar is not well-known but has an enchantment all of its own. Read Rinder Payne's account in Peru this Week

Introduction

The Republic of Peru is situated south of Ecuador and Colombia, with eastern borders with Brasil and Bolivia, and southern border with Chile.It has a population of nearly 30 million, with 8 million living in the capital Lima which generates two thirds of the country`s industrial output. The country is steeped in rich history, and the city of Cuzco was the ancient capital of the Inca empire. Tourists flock from all quarters of the world to visit the lost Incan city of Machu Picchu, situated 8000 feet up in the Andes mountains.

The country has excellent natural commodity resources like oil, gold, copper, silver, lead and zinc. However the potential advantages of these have not been capitalised upon through failure of various governments over recent years. There is still massive inequality between the ruling elite of European descent and the native Peruvians. This created a fertile environment for revolutionaries who have plagued the country, and this has restricted investment from the outside international community.

Economy

The economy has historically been highly dependant on export trading of commodities like copper, gold, and zinc, where it is among the world`s leading producers. Textiles and fish products are also very influential and Peru is one of the world`s top nations in fishing. Important markets for all products have included the US, Brazil, Chile and China. Lima still controls the majority of the trade and industry, but agriculture has developed throughout the many diverse climates of the country. High margin products like avocados, artichokes, mangos, grapes, potatoes, sugar cane and cotton are helping to drive significant growth. Further progress is anticipated following free trade agreements with the US and China. In recent years overall economic growth has been around 9%, and inflation at around 2% is the best in Latin America.

Lima

Lima is a large vibrant city full of history and culture. A stay here is rewarded by a very friendly local population who are used to welcoming tourists as part of their often frenetic lives. The city still retains that old colonial style with large blocks in the centre and their ornate balconies, and The Plaza Mayor is where Francisco Pizarro founded the city in 1535 and reflects the former glory of these bygone times but is also the bustling centre of life today. This part of the city has a fantastic choice of restaurants and cafes to suit all tastes and pockets. There are excellent museums in historic buildings like the Art Museum, and the Justice Palace. Take a stroll in the Barranco district and enjoy the interesting selection of bars and cafes along the shoreline.

Magic Circuit of the Water Tour

The latest additions to the attractions of Lima are the beautiful fountains in the Parque de la Reserva. Do not miss this fantastic complex of 13 unique fountains which are illuminated with coloured lights and lasers. Music is expertly choreographed with the movement of the water in a whole variety of breath-taking displays. Some fountains invite participation from visitors if they are brave enough to risk a soaking!

SLIDESHOW OF MAGIC CIRCUIT OF WATER TOUR, PARQUE DE LA RESERVA, LIMA, PERU

For further in-depth information on this wonderful country visit the excellent website of Pedro Martinez:-

Peru Inca History and Travel Guide
Peru Inca History is one of the world's greatest when it comes to ancient civilizations. Their cultural, archaeological and unique heritage impress visitors from all over the world.