Talking about Peru is, undoubtedly, a great opportunity to highlight its rich history and culture. This South American country is known for its fascinating identity, which blends Incan heritage with the influence of other ancient civilizations.
Although its diverse landscapes are a major attraction, understanding the importance of Peruvian culture is essential for any visitor seeking an authentic and enriching experience.
In this article, we invite you to explore the key aspects that bring Peruvian culture and customs to life—from their origins in ancient societies to the traditions still alive today.
Understanding where these customs come from—and how they manifest today—will enrich your travel experience and allow you to connect more deeply with the essence of Peru.
Want to discover all the details to turn your trip into a unique opportunity for connecting with local culture? Read our experiential tourism blog.
Inca heritage y colonial legacy
Modern Peruvian culture is the result of an ancient fusion between two major historical pillars: the heritage of the Inca Empire and the Spanish colonial legacy. This unique blend has shaped the traditions, cuisine, beliefs, and identity of present-day Peru.
Before the arrival of Europeans, the Incas had established a vast Andean empire with a complex social organization, advances in agriculture, architecture, medicine, and a deep respect for nature. Many of these practices and traditions still survive today among Indigenous communities.
With the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, a new political, religious, and cultural order was imposed. However, rather than erasing the past, this encounter gave rise to a mestizo identity in which Indigenous and European elements coexist and interact in expressions such as music, art, language, and festivals.
Modern Peruvian culture is the result of a centuries-old fusion between two major historical pillars: the heritage of the Inca Empire and the Spanish colonial legacy. This unique blend has shaped the traditions, cuisine, beliefs, and identity of contemporary Peru.
Before the arrival of Europeans, the Incas had consolidated a vast Andean empire with a complex social structure, significant advances in agriculture, architecture, and medicine, and a profound respect for nature. Many of these practices and customs are still alive today in Indigenous communities.
With the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, a new political, religious, and cultural order was imposed. Yet, rather than erasing the past, this encounter gave birth to a mestizo identity where Indigenous and European elements coexist and interact through expressions such as music, art, language, and festivals.
Understanding Peruvian culture today means recognizing this dual heritage: the symbolic power of the Inca legacy and the deep influence of colonization—both of which remain present in the everyday life of modern Peru.
The Incas: A Powerful Civilization
Undoubtedly, the Inca civilization was one of the most advanced and powerful in the history of the Americas—and also one that showed exceptional potential in terms of human development on a global scale. Emerging after the rise of various pre-Inca cultures, the Incas managed to consolidate a vast, efficient, and highly organized empire that deeply influenced the cultural identity of the continent and whose legacy endures to this day.
A clear example of the magnificence of Inca culture is the construction of impressive archaeological works that remain, even today, major destinations for travelers from around the world. The ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru’s most iconic attraction and recognized as a wonder of the world, continue to stand as a living symbol of this ancient heritage.
Discover all the Machu Picchu Tours we have available for you here.
Another key aspect of the Inca legacy is the strategic choice of Cusco as the capital of the empire. More than just an administrative center, it was considered the “navel of the world” (Qosqo), from which the roads that connected the entire Tahuantinsuyo empire originated. Its location in the heart of the Andes not only facilitated control over coastal, Amazonian, and highland regions but also established Cusco as the spiritual, political, and cultural axis of the empire.
That legacy was not lost over time—today, Cusco remains a key city for Peru, not only because of its historical richness but also due to its cultural vibrancy and economic impact through tourism. Walking through its streets is like walking through centuries of living history, where Inca heritage endures in the architecture, festivals, and daily life.
The Arrival of the Spanish in Inca Lands
The arrival of the Spanish in 1532, led by Francisco Pizarro, marked a turning point in this history. The conquest of the Inca Empire and the beginning of colonial rule imposed new social, political, and religious structures. For nearly three centuries, the Viceroyalty of Peru was one of the main centers of Spanish power in the Americas.
However, this was not merely a replacement of cultures—it led to a deep fusion. From the encounter between these two worlds, a mestizo culture was born, which today is reflected in Peru’s language, religion, art, cuisine, and festivals. Independence, proclaimed in 1821 by José de San Martín and solidified in 1826 after the final surrender of Spanish forces to Simón Bolívar, gave rise to a nation that preserves both its Andean heritage and European influence.
Peruvian Cuisine: A Fusion of Flavors
If there’s one thing we can’t leave out when talking about Peruvian culture, it’s the food. Peru stands out at the top when it comes to culinary variety—and for good reason. In this country, cuisine is part of its ancestral legacy and cultural heritage.
The diversity in its dishes allows us to travel through time and discover the charm of ancient traditions. At the same time, enjoying the combination of different recipes offers a unique opportunity to better understand how many cultures have blended throughout Peru’s long history.
Thanks to the Peruvians’ ingenuity in agriculture, the country boasts a wide variety of ingredients from the land, contributing to fresh dishes made with top-quality meats, spices, and more. Without a doubt, the country’s culinary secret lies in the fusion of diverse influences.
Peruvian cuisine goes far beyond the basics—each region has its own unique style. As a result, Peru’s culinary offerings are nearly endless. Some of the must-try traditional dishes for any traveler include:
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Ceviche: The best of Peru’s fresh fish, marinated in lime juice. This iconic Peruvian dish is typically served with sweet potato, corn (choclo), and the essential combination of red onion and ají limo chili.
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Papa Rellena: A delicious appetizer consisting of a ball of mashed potato filled with ground beef and hard-boiled egg.
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Cuy: A distinctive element of Peruvian culture and cuisine, cuy (guinea pig) is one of the country’s oldest traditional dishes. It’s usually served fried and accompanied by rice or boiled potatoes.
Discover much more about Peruvian cuisine in this article — you're going to love it!
Music, Dances, and Traditional Festivities of Peru
Peruvian culture also stands out globally thanks to its traditional dances, music, and celebrations. One fascinating aspect of Peruvian music is the blend of African, Andean, and European elements.
From ancient times to the present day, various key instruments are used in Peruvian music, such as the antara (Andean flute), the Peruvian cajón, the charango, among others. Regarding musical styles, there are several, including festejo peruano, huayno, marinera, and more.
In modern times, Peruvian culture has also embraced other musical styles like cumbia, which primarily originated in Colombia. Nevertheless, it is very popular throughout the Peruvian region and other South American countries.
Contemporary genres are also widely heard in Peru, with salsa being one of the most prominent. In fact, it’s worth mentioning that in Lima, specifically in El Callao, you can find the famous “Casa de la Salsa”, inspired by the great singers of the genre.
Traditional Festivities of Peru
In Peru, there are celebrations that have been preserved and carried on through time. A crucial factor guiding these events over the years is the influence of Catholicism, which has given rise to celebrations such as:
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El Señor de los Milagros in Lima
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El Señor de los Temblores in Cusco
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La Virgen del Carmen in Paucartambo
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Christmas throughout the country
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Day of the Dead across the nation
These traditional festivals are a fundamental part of what Peruvian culture is today.
Customs and Traditions That Endure
Just as Peruvian culture is marked by diversity in Catholic festivities, there are celebrations that have been passed down from generation to generation. Today, events like Inti Raymi, also known as the Festival of the Sun, continue to be celebrated. This festival is one of the most important, as it honors the Sun god.
Year after year, thousands of people travel to Cusco to take part in this significant celebration. The event begins very early with sunrise and later moves to the Sacsayhuamán plaza.
Another key celebration in Peruvian culture is Corpus Christi, which takes place 70 days after Easter. While it is a national festival, in Cusco it is observed with a much deeper sense of devotion.
Additionally, another festival of special importance is the Day of Pachamama. This Andean ritual gives thanks to Mother Earth for the blessings received in the crops throughout the year.
Don’t miss any of our Cusco Tours and immerse yourself even more in Peruvian culture.
Cultural Diversity in the Regions of Peru
The cultural diversity of each region in Peru is one of the country’s most valuable attractions. Within this variety, we find different customs, dances, beliefs, gastronomy, clothing, and ways of life.
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Peruvian Coast: This region shows European, African, and Indigenous influences, depending on the area. Among its main celebrations are the Marinera Norteña and the Ica Grape Harvest Festival (Vendimia). Common dishes include ceviche, anticucho, causa, and more. An important fact about this region is the presence of Afro-descendant culture established in Chincha.
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Peruvian Highlands: Indigenous languages such as Aymara and Quechua are still spoken in this area of Peru. Regarding celebrations, there are several, including the Feast of the Virgin of Candelaria in Puno. Handwoven textiles and traditional clothing, made using ancestral techniques still practiced today, are distinctive elements of Peruvian culture in this region.
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Peruvian Jungle: This region currently preserves the largest number of Indigenous communities, with approximately 50 native peoples, including the Awajún and Bora. In this area, rituals connected to nature and the spiritual world are essential parts of cultural life. One of the most well-known is the ceremonial use of ayahuasca, a sacred plant used in healing ceremonies and for connecting with the spirit of the jungle. Additionally, body painting, pottery, and textiles stand out as artistic expressions that have allowed these communities to pass down their ancestral knowledge and worldviews—traditions that continue to this day.
Check out this article about Peruvian Handicrafts and discover the wide variety of products available in Peru.
Peruvian Spirituality and Beliefs
A particularly representative aspect of Peruvian culture is its religion and beliefs. In ancient times, the Inca civilizations practiced polytheistic beliefs, worshiping various deities such as the Sun god, the Moon goddess, and others.
However, with the arrival of the Spanish, Peruvian culture was restructured, allowing Catholic beliefs to be established. While religious freedom exists in Peru, about 75% of Peruvians follow the Christian religion brought by the Spaniards. Of this group, more than 60% identify as Catholic.
Why Get to Know Peruvian Culture?
As you’ve seen, Peruvian culture is one of the richest and most fascinating in the world. It’s not just about landscapes or tourism, but a millennia-old history that remains alive in its traditions, its people, and its customs.
Learning more about the ancient civilizations and the evolution of this Andean country is a unique opportunity to experience a more authentic and transformative journey.
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