What language is spoken in Peru?

Peru's official language is Castilian Spanish, spoken by over 80% of the population. Many indigenous languages coexist, notably Quechua, Aymara in the Andes, and various Amazonian languages such as Aquaruna.

Castilian Spanish, the dominant language

Castilian Spanish is the official language of Peru and the mother tongue of more than 80% of the population. It is the language used in administration, education, media and commerce throughout the country.

Indigenous languages still alive

Peru officially recognizes several indigenous languages:

Quechua: spoken by approximately 4 million Peruvians, mainly in the Andes
Aymara: concentrated in the Lake Titicaca region and the Altiplano
Amazonian languages: Aquaruna, Kawki, Kaqaru and dozens of other dialects in isolated regions of the Amazon

To remember for your trip

In tourist and urban areas, Spanish is more than sufficient. In remote Andean or Amazonian communities, knowing a few words of Quechua can create authentic connections with local residents.