Peru is on the West Coast of South America, south of the Equator, between 0 and 18 degrees south latitude and, 70 degrees and 81 degrees west longitude. With a population of about 27.94 million people, Peru is the fifth most populated country in Latin America. The country has four distinct geographic areas: the narrow coastal desert region about 25 to 40 miles wide, barren except for irrigated valleys; the Andean highlands or sierra, containing some of the world's highest mountains. A long narrow strip of mountainous jungle on the eastern slope of the Andes, and the selva or rain forest area which covers over half the country, including the vast Amazon River Basin and the Madre de Dios River Basin.Peru lies below the Equator, therefore, its seasons along the Pacific Coast, which includes Lima, are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer lasts from about mid-December through April in that region and is generally pleasant, with warm, sunny days and cool, comfortable nights. February is usually the warmest month, with an average temperature of 79 (F) and humidity of 83%.
Government:For administrative purposes, the country is divided into 25 regions, which are further divided into departments, provinces, and districts. The regional level of government encompasses regions and departments; provinces, districts, and smaller population centers constitute the levels of local government. There military is composed of army, navy, air force, and marine contingents. Service is selective, and men 18 years of age and older are required to register with the government. Peruvian troops have served as United Nations Peacekeeping Forces on numerous missions.
