About Peru
Peru Revealed: A Tour of Its Culture, History, and Nature
Geography
Peru is located in western South America, bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and the Pacific Ocean. It covers an area of 496,200 square miles (1,285,220 square
kilometers) and has a diverse geography that includes the Andes Mountains, the Amazon rainforest, the Pacific coast, and the high-altitude Lake Titicaca. The country is divided into three main regions: the coast (La Costa), the mountains (La Sierra), and the jungle (La Selva).
History
Peru has a rich and complex history that dates back to pre-Columbian times. The region was home to several advanced civilizations, including the Inca Empire, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries. In 1532, the Spanish arrived in Peru and established a colonial regime that lasted until 1821, when Peru declared its independence. Since then, the country has undergone numerous political and economic changes, including military coups, democratic reforms, and economic growth.
The Inca Empire
This amazing empire was one of the most significant and influential pre-Columbian civilizations in the Americas. The Incas established their capital, Cuzco, in the early 13th century and expanded their territory through a combination of military conquest and political alliances. At its height, the Inca Empire covered much of western South America, including present-day Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Argentina.
The Incas were known for their impressive engineering feats, including the construction of elaborate road networks, aqueducts, and terraced fields. They also had a complex social structure and a well-developed economy based on agriculture, mining, and trade. The Inca’s currency was based on a system of exchange using coca leaves, gold, and silver.
One of the most famous landmarks in Peru is Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca city located in the Andes Mountains. Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century and was likely used as a royal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti. The city was abandoned shortly after the Spanish conquest in the 16th century and was largely forgotten until it was rediscovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham.
In addition to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail is another popular tourist destination in Peru. The Inca Trail is a 26-mile trek through the Andes Mountains that leads hikers to several ancient Inca sites, including the ruins of Wiay Wayna and the Sun Gate, which provides a stunning view of Machu Picchu.
The Incas also had a rich cultural and spiritual tradition, with a complex system of beliefs and rituals centered around the worship of nature and the sun god, Inti. The Incas believed that their emperor was the son of the sun god and had a divine right to rule. They also practiced human sacrifice, although it was not as widespread as in some other pre-Columbian cultures.
Today, the legacy of the Incas can be seen in Peru’s art, music, language, and culture. Many Peruvians, especially those living in the Andes, still speak Quechua, the language of the Inca empire. The Incas’ influence can also be seen in the country’s vibrant textiles and handicrafts, which are produced using traditional methods that date back centuries.
Culture
Peru has a vibrant and diverse culture that reflects its indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences. The country has a rich tradition of music, dance, art, and literature, as well as a cuisine that is renowned worldwide. Some of the most notable cultural landmarks in Peru include the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, the Inca Trail, and the colonial architecture of Lima, the capital city.
Economy
Peru has a mixed economy that relies on various industries, including mining, fishing, manufacturing, and agriculture. The country is one of the world’s largest producers of gold, copper, and silver, and it also exports significant quantities of fish, coffee, textiles, and cacao. The economy has experienced significant growth in recent years, with an average annual GDP growth rate of around 5% since 2002.
Politics
Peru is a democratic republic with a president who serves as both head of state and government. The country has a multi-party system and holds regular elections for its executive and legislative branches. However, Peru has faced political instability in recent years, with corruption scandals, protests, and a constitutional crisis.
Language
The official language of Peru is Spanish, but there are also several indigenous languages spoken throughout the country, including Quechua, Aymara, Quechua and many others.
Religion
The majority of Peruvians are Roman Catholic, but there are also significant Protestant and other Christian communities. Indigenous religions and spiritual practices also continue to be practiced in many parts of the country.
The Amazon Rainforest
Peru is home to a significant portion of the Amazon rainforest, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. The Amazon covers over 60% of Peru’s territory, with millions of species of plants,
animals, and microorganisms living in the region. The rainforest is an essential part of the global ecosystem, playing a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate and providing oxygen.
The Amazon is also a crucial source of livelihood for many indigenous communities living in the region. They have lived sustainably off the land for generations, using traditional knowledge and practices to cultivate crops and protect the forests. Unfortunately, the Amazon rainforest is under threat from deforestation, mining, and other unsustainable practices, putting the ecosystem and its inhabitants at risk. Much more can be told about the Amazon rainforest which you can read on our pages Forest Facts and The Four Layers.
Nature and Wildlife
Peru’s geography and biodiversity make it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The country has a diverse array of landscapes, from the snow-capped Andes mountains to the stunning Pacific coastline and the lush Amazon rainforest. Some of the country’s most beautiful natural wonders include the Colca Canyon, the Huascaran National Park, and the Paracas National Reserve.
The wildlife in Peru is equally impressive, with many species of animals and birds found nowhere else in the world. Peru is home to jaguars, pumas, spectacled bears, giant otters, and many other exotic mammals. The region also has an incredible diversity of bird species, including the Andean condor, macaws, toucans, and hummingbirds. Visitors to Peru can experience the natural beauty of the country by taking a guided tour of the Amazon rainforest, hiking in the Andes mountains, or visiting one of the many national parks and reserves.
San Martin, Peru
San Martin is the department in which we chose to live and started working with Amagreenzone. The department is located in the northern part of Peru, and it’s one of the most fascinating places to visit in the country. It is known for being one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth, with the majority of the department being comprised of cloud forests. The region is a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and those interested in learning about different cultures. San Martin can be divided into four distinct zones, each with its unique features and attractions:
This part of the department is located on the eastern side of the Andes plateau and is characterized by its many stunning canyons. This area is perfect for hikers and adventurers, who can explore the depths of the canyons and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also explore the many colonial towns in the area, such as Lamas, which is known for its handicrafts.
This area features wide valleys and was the location for the filming of the movie “Transformers 7: The Rise of the Beast.” We understand why they chose this location, for its intense beauty and its deep, lush canyons. The population here is primarily engaged in cattle and agriculture, with crops such as cacao, banana, corn, and various fruits and vegetables grown in the region. Visitors can explore the plantations and learn about the traditional techniques used in farming.
This region is different from the Cordillera Azul, which is a mountain range in the area, because it’s located at a lower elevation. It is home to the impressive Cajón de Sión ravine and the Cayumba cascade. The area is known for its stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and natural pools. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and swimming in the region.
This is a small portion of the department that is located in the lower jungle and experiences regular flooding. The area is home to many indigenous communities, such as the Quechua-Lamista people. Visitors can learn about their culture and traditions, including their ancient knowledge of plant medicine. The region is also home to the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, which is a vast area of protected rainforest that is home to many rare and endangered species, including jaguars, giant otters, and pink river dolphins.
“San Martin is a unique and beautiful region in Peru that offers visitors a chance to explore its natural wonders and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventurer, or cultural enthusiast, San Martin has something to offer everyone.”
Moyobamba
Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, Moyobamba is the beating pulse and main capital of San Martin, a vibrant and bustling town that brings together nature, culture, and tradition in perfect harmony. Rising 860 meters above sea level, this charming city offers a pleasant respite from the tropical heat, inviting visitors to explore its diverse landscapes and rich history.
With a population of over 133,631 residents (2020), Moyobamba is a melting pot of cultures, where locals proudly preserve the traditions of their ancestors and welcome visitors with open arms. Its nickname, “The City of Orchids,” speaks volumes about its greatest natural treasure. With more than 3,000 species of orchids that are indigenous to the area, Moyobamba is a true botanical wonder and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
However, this breathtaking beauty of orchids is protected by law, and taking some of the orchids from the area outside the country is strictly prohibited. So come, immerse yourself in the stunning landscape, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and discover the magic of Moyobamba, where the wonders of nature and the warmth of the local community await.
Tarapoto
We discovered the rich history, delicious cuisine, and bustling heart of Tarapoto, the largest city in San Martin. Nestled at an impressive altitude of 365 meters, Tarapoto has been a hub of commerce and gastronomy for generations, drawing in locals from the surrounding area for their shopping and dining needs. Tarapoto’s culinary scene is a melting pot of Amazonian and Andean influences, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes from the region include “Inchicapi,” a hearty soup made from ground corn and spices; “Tacacho,” a dish of mashed plantains served with pork and spices; and “Chicharron de Tarapoto,” a crispy pork dish that is a staple of the city’s street food scene.
But the city’s story dates back much further than its delicious cuisine. Once a hub of the Amazonian rubber trade in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tarapoto has a rich and storied past. During this time, the city saw a boom in wealth and population growth as rubber barons and traders flocked to the area to capitalize on the lucrative trade. This period of prosperity left a lasting impact on the city, and its beautiful architecture and cultural heritage still remain to this day.
Take a scenic one-hour flight from Lima and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this commercial and culinary hub. Despite its rich history, Tarapoto is still known for its safety, with locals and visitors alike praising the warmth and hospitality of the local people. It’s no wonder why Tarapoto is renowned as one of the three safest cities in Peru. We witnessed this firsthand during our nine-month residency and were struck by the secure environment, where abandoned shopping carts in supermarkets with open lady bags and visible purses attest to the peace of mind of those who live and visit here.
Not just a hub for commerce and gastronomy, Tarapoto is also a sought-after vacation destination, attracting visitors from near and far. Despite its elevated position, the city can get quite hot, as it is essentially a concrete jungle that traps heat. At night, be prepared to break a sweat as you lay in bed, but rest assured you’ll be doing so in one of the safest and most historically rich cities in Peru, with a cuisine that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.
Chazuta
“Nestled on the cusp of the sprawling Amazon jungle and surrounded by breathtaking national parks, Chazuta is the proud home base of Amagreenzone.” This once dangerous area, overrun by drug lords and plagued by violence, has been transformed into a thriving hub of cacao, fruit, and vegetable cultivation, reforestation, and environmental protection.
Chazuta has a rich history and was originally named after the indigenous Chauscasos Indians who lived in the area. However, in 1857, President Ramón Castilla renamed the town Chazuta.
A few decades ago, the introduction of cacao played a vital role in reducing the production of cocaine in the area, as farmers switched to growing this more lucrative and safer crop. Today, visitors can still visit the old well at Pumarinri Amazon Lodge, where coca leaves were once processed.
The friendly residents of Chazula are a mix of old traditions and modern living. Agriculture, hunting, and fishing provide for their livelihoods, but despite their relatively poor financial state, the fertile land, plentiful rivers, and favorable climate make survival easy. You’ll be greeted with warm smiles and cheerful hellos as the community lives day by day.
Chazuta is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Despite its troubled past, this village has bloomed into a vibrant and thriving community, a beacon of hope for the Amazon rainforest and all who call it “home.”
People live in simple houses often made with wooden planks. Inside a house, you often see a floor made of soil. The people cook on an open fire in or right next to the house. You therefore see people walking daily with baskets full of firewood, which the people carry with bands around their foreheads.
The house usually has some furniture made of plastic and pans for cooking made of aluminum are blackened by the fire. Usually there is a television in the house.
The Amazon river
The Amazon River, the largest river in the world by volume and the second-longest in the world after the Nile is a vital component of the Amazon Rainforest ecosystem. Originating in the Andes Mountains of Peru, the Amazon River winds its way through South America, passing through Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. The river is over 6,400 km long and spans a width of up to 11 km at its widest point. The Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest are home to some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the world, including thousands of species of plants and animals that are found nowhere else on Earth.
The Hullaga River
The Huallaga River is a major tributary of the Amazon River, running through the central region of Peru. The river is approximately 1,125 km long and runs through a diverse range of landscapes, including the Andean mountains and the Amazonian rainforest. In this article, we will focus on the section of the Huallaga River that runs through the region of San Martin, which is located in north-central Peru.
The Huallaga River is one of the most important sources of water and transportation in the region of San Martin. The river provides irrigation for agriculture and supports the fishing industry, which is a vital source of food for the local population. In addition, the river is used for transportation, as boats and barges transport goods and people to and from the remote villages along the riverbank.
In the region of San Martin, the Huallaga River is also an important source of hydroelectric power.
Several hydroelectric dams have been built along the river, providing electricity to the local communities and contributing to the country’s energy production. However, the construction of these dams has also had a significant impact on the local environment, affecting the flow of the river and causing the displacement of local communities.
The Huallaga River is also home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including numerous species of fish, reptiles, and mammals. Some of the most famous species that can be found in the river include the giant otter, the Amazonian manatee, and the pink dolphin. The river is also an important habitat for numerous bird species, many of which are endemic to the region.
In recent years, the region of San Martin has faced several environmental challenges related to the Huallaga River. The rapid expansion of illegal gold mining in the region has led to widespread deforestation and pollution of the river, which has had a serious impact on the health of local communities and the environment. In addition, the illegal trade in drugs and firearms has also had a negative impact on the region, leading to increased violence and instability.
Despite these challenges in the past, the region of San Martin continues to be an important hub of activity along the Huallaga River. The local communities are working to find solutions to the environmental and social problems that they face, and the government has taken steps to address the issues related to illegal gold mining and drug trafficking. With the help of conservation organizations, such as Amagreenzone, and other groups, the region is working to protect the Huallaga River and its unique ecosystem, ensuring that it remains an important source of life and prosperity for future generations.
In conclusion, the Huallaga River is a critical part of the region of San Martin, providing water, transportation, energy, and food to the local communities. Despite the challenges that the region faces, it is working to protect the river and its ecosystem, ensuring that it remains an important source of life and prosperity for the people of San Martin.
Geography and climate
The Amazon River Basin covers an area of approximately 7 million square kilometers and spans across eight countries: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, and Suriname.
The river itself is fed by over 1,000 tributaries, including some of the largest rivers in the world, such as the Madeira, Japurá, Juruá, and Negro rivers. The river and its surrounding rainforest region are known for their hot and humid tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year. The Amazon Rainforest is also one of the wettest places on Earth, with an average annual rainfall of 2,300 mm.
Flora and Fauna
The Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest are home to an astonishing array of plant and animal species. The rainforest alone is estimated to contain over 30 million species of plants and animals, many of which have yet to be discovered by scientists. The river is home to over 3,000 known species of fish, including the piranha and the arapaima, one of the largest freshwater fish in the world. The river and its tributaries also serve as important habitats for freshwater dolphins, including the pink river dolphin and the boto. Other iconic animals found in the Amazon Rainforest include jaguars, giant otters, anacondas, and capybaras.
The Amazon Rainforest is also home to countless species of trees and plants, many of which have important medicinal properties. The rainforest is known for its enormous canopy trees, which tower above the forest floor and provide homes for countless species of animals. Other notable plant species found in the Amazon Rainforest include rubber trees, Brazil nuts, and cacao trees.
Human Impacts:
The Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest region are facing a range of challenges, including deforestation, mining, and climate change. Deforestation, often driven by the expansion of agriculture and livestock grazing, has led to the loss of millions of hectares of rainforest in recent decades. This has not only had a devastating impact on the region’s biodiversity but has also contributed to climate change by releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Mining for minerals and oil has also caused significant environmental damage, polluting waterways and destroying important habitats.
The Amazon River is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that serves as the lifeblood of the Amazon Rainforest ecosystem. It is home to an incredible array of plant and animal species and supports the livelihoods of millions of people who live along its banks. As one of the most important and biodiverse rivers in the world, it is essential that we take steps to protect the Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest, ensuring that this precious ecosystem remains intact for generations to come.