Fact Finder - Geography

Fact
The Andean Heights: Peru
Category
Geography
Subcategory
Capitals Continents and Countries
Country
Peru
Description
Peru is located in western South America, bordered by Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, Chile to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Its capital, Lima, is situated on the arid Pacific coast. Peru's geography is defined by three main regions: the Costa (coast), the Sierra (highlands of the Andes), and the Selva (Amazon rainforest). The Andes mountains run parallel to the Pacific Ocean and include Huascarán, the highest point in the tropics. Peru is home to Machu Picchu, the 15th-century Inca citadel, and the ancient Nazca Lines. It also contains Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, shared with Bolivia. The country is a megadiverse nation, with habitats ranging from the arid plains of the Pacific coastal region to the peaks of the Andes and the tropical Amazon Basin. Peru is a major exporter of minerals, particularly copper, gold, and zinc.