11 Things Peruvians Do Better Than Anyone Else

Peru is a country steeped in ancient traditions and customs that date back thousands of years and which are still practiced today. In their long and storied history Peruvians have perfected many things to the envy of other countries around the world. From epic ruins to the art of ceviche, here’s a look at what makes Peru so special and one of South America’s most distinct countries.

Pisco sour

The country’s favorite cocktail is so popular it even has its own national day. Chile and Peru have a rivalry to the origins of the cocktail, but historians side with Peru. If you ask a Peruvian—well, you know what they’ll tell you —the pisco sour is Peru’s drink.

Ceviche

Ceviche is the country’s favorite dish and their biggest culinary gift to the world. The fresh fish and spicy citrus marinate is one of Peru’s most memorable flavors.

Potatoes

The country is home to thousands of potatoes and locals use them in many of their traditional dishes. Next time you go to a Peruvian market, count how many types you can find.

Epic ruins

The country is covered with incredible ruins, from the north to the south, they date back thousands of years, pre-dating the Incas—and oh yeah, the country also has something called Machu Picchu.

Altitude tolerance

The Incas and their ancestors called the Andes their home, so most Peruvians are well adapted to the sparse oxygen. While gringos stop to gasp for air, hands on hip, your Peruvian friends will keep on hiking.

Preserving traditions

Peru’s main draw are its unique and diverse traditions which date back thousands of years. From shaman in the jungle to Andean customs in the high lands, Peru’s great traditions abound.

Cusco, Peru, a city steeped in history and tradition

Big buses, small roads

Navigating the narrow roads of the Andes with a bus is a difficult job, but Peruvians do it better than the rest.

Llamas and alpacas

Llamas and alpacas call the Peruvian Andes home. The Incas bred the camelids and they have since become synonymous with Peruvian traditions and the country itself.

Fusion food

Peru has claimed the title as South America’s food capital. Their mix of Peruvian ingredients and traditions with Japanese and Chinese techniques makes Peru one of the world’s most desirable food destination.

Pisco

Pisco is Peru’s national spirit and a unique tradition they reluctantly share with Chile. If you’re looking to taste Peru’s finest pisco, head to the wine and pisco region of Ica in the south.

Treks

Whether you want to see remarkable Inca ruins, climb mountains, hike through jungle–or maybe a little of them all–Peru has enough to keep even the most enthusiastic hiker busy for years.