How Big Is Peru?
Peru, located in South America, is the 20th largest country in the world, covering approximately 1,285,216 square kilometers (496,224 square miles). That's roughly the same size as Alaska. It is home to approximately 32.3 million people.
Peru on the Map
Peru's Geography
Of its total area, 1,279,996 km² is land and 5,220 km² (0.4%) is water. Peru has approximately 2,414 km of coastline. Within South America, Peru is the 3rd largest of 14 countries, sitting between Argentina and Colombia. With 25 people per km², it is more densely populated than the South American average of 22 per km².
How Far Across Is Peru?
Peru stretches approximately 2,036 km (1,265 mi) from north to south — roughly the distance from New York to Miami, and 1,392 km (865 mi) from east to west — roughly the distance from London to Rome. At highway speeds, it would take roughly 15 hours to drive across.
How Many Times Does Peru Fit?
Similar in Size
How Big Is Peru Compared to Well-Known Places?
| Place | Area | vs Peru |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 377,915 km² (145,914 sq mi) | 3.4× smaller |
| California | 403,882 km² (155,940 sq mi) | 3.2× smaller |
| France | 551,500 km² (212,935 sq mi) | 2.3× smaller |
| Texas | 678,052 km² (261,797 sq mi) | 47% smaller |
| Peru | 1,285,216 km² (496,224 sq mi) | — |
| Alaska | 1,481,348 km² (571,951 sq mi) | 15% larger |
| Argentina | 2,780,400 km² (1,073,518 sq mi) | 2.2× larger |
| India | 3,287,263 km² (1,269,219 sq mi) | 2.6× larger |
| Australia | 7,741,220 km² (2,988,901 sq mi) | 6× larger |
More Countries in South America
Explore Peru
Peru at a Glance
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Area | 1,285,216 km² (496,224 sq mi) |
| World Size Rank | #20 of 236 |
| Capital | Lima |
| Population Density | 25 per km² |
| Population | 32.3 million people |
| Coastline | 2,414 km |
| Life Expectancy | 68.9 years |
| GDP per Capita | $15,100 USD |