Peru is a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. But what language do they speak in Peru? While Spanish is the most widely spoken language, Peru is home to an incredible diversity of languages, including Quechua and Aymara, both of which hold official status alongside Spanish. In total, Peru has around 50 living languages, many of them indigenous.
Let’s dive into the languages spoken in Peru, their regional variations, and how they shape the country’s cultural identity.
The Official Languages of Peru
Peru has three official languages: Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara. Spanish is the most widely spoken, with about 84% of the population using it as their primary language. Around 26% of Peruvians speak an indigenous language, with higher concentrations in the southeast.
What makes Peru unique is its recognition of indigenous languages at the national level—something that few countries do. To further protect its linguistic heritage, Peru passed laws in 1972 to preserve all indigenous languages. These laws ensure bilingual education and the right to interpreters when interacting with authorities. Today, Peru’s public schools provide materials in at least 24 indigenous languages, keeping these traditions alive for future generations.
How Many Languages Are Spoken in Peru?
Peru is home to around 50 living languages, reflecting the country’s rich cultural and linguistic diversity. While Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara are the official languages, many indigenous languages are still actively spoken, particularly in rural and remote areas. Some of the most widely spoken indigenous languages include:
- Asháninka – Primarily spoken in the central Amazon region.
- Awajún – Used by communities in the northern Amazon near the Ecuadorian border.
- Shipibo – Commonly spoken along the Ucayali River in the eastern Amazon.
Language distribution varies significantly across Peru. In major cities like Lima, nearly everyone speaks Spanish. However, in more remote regions, such as Atalaya in the eastern Amazon, only about half the population speaks Spanish, with indigenous languages being the primary means of communication.
Spanish in Peru: Three Main Dialects
Although Spanish is the dominant language in Peru, it is spoken differently across regions. The country’s geographic diversity—from the high-altitude Andes to the coastal cities and the Amazon rainforest—has shaped distinct dialects. The three main dialects of Peruvian Spanish are:
1. Andean Spanish
Spoken in Peru’s highlands, Andean Spanish is strongly influenced by Quechua and Aymara. Because indigenous languages have historically been the first language of many people in this region, Andean Spanish has developed unique features, including:
- A double possessive structure – Instead of saying la casa de Renata (Renata’s house), Andean Spanish speakers often say Su casa de Renata, repeating the possessive for emphasis.
- Loanwords from Quechua and Aymara – Many everyday words come from indigenous languages, such as:
- Choclo – Corn
- Guagua – Baby
- Cancha – Toasted maize or cornfield
- Distinct pronunciation patterns –
- The final “s” sound is often softened or omitted in words.
- Vowel sounds may be fused or altered, influenced by Quechua pronunciation.
- Seseo is common, meaning that “s” and “z” are pronounced the same way.
Overall, Andean Spanish maintains a clear and deliberate pronunciation of consonants, giving it a distinct rhythm compared to other Spanish dialects.
2. Coastal Spanish
Spoken along Peru’s extensive Pacific coast, this dialect is influenced by European Spanish, Andean Spanish, and Argentine Spanish. It is commonly heard in Lima, Trujillo, and other coastal cities. Key features of Coastal Spanish include:
- A strong rolled “rr” sound – This is more pronounced compared to other Peruvian dialects.
- Unique slang words and phrases, such as:
- Calato – Nude
- Tombo – Police
- Guachimán – Watchman
- Huasca – Drunk
- Yeísmo – The “y” and “ll” sounds are pronounced the same, unlike in Spain, where they are distinct.
- Softened pronunciation of the final “s”, but not as much as in Andean Spanish.
Because Lima is Peru’s economic and political hub, Coastal Spanish is often considered the “standard” Peruvian Spanish. It is the dialect most commonly taught to learners of Spanish.
3. Amazonian Spanish
Spoken in Peru’s Amazon rainforest, Amazonian Spanish has been shaped by the many indigenous languages spoken in the region, such as Asháninka, Shipibo, and Awajún. This dialect stands out for:
- The pronunciation of “x” as an “f” – This is influenced by local indigenous languages.
- The use of “cho” as a filler word – Similar to how English speakers say “um” or “yo” in casual speech.
- Loanwords from indigenous languages, including:
- Yacu – Water (from Quechua)
- Sherete – Sweetheart
- Misho – Cat
- Double possessive structure, similar to Andean Spanish.
Amazonian Spanish is spoken mainly in rural jungle communities and towns like Iquitos, Pucallpa, and Puerto Maldonado. Since many Amazonian Peruvians grow up speaking an indigenous language first, their Spanish is often influenced by their native tongue’s grammar and pronunciation.
A Linguistic Blend
Peruvian Spanish is a mix of cultures and histories, shaped by Spanish colonization, indigenous languages, and regional influences. While these three dialects differ, they are all mutually intelligible, and most Peruvians can understand each other regardless of where they are from.
If you’re planning to visit Peru, knowing a few key phrases in Spanish (or even Quechua!) can go a long way in connecting with locals and appreciating the country’s rich linguistic heritage.
Quechua: The Language of the Incas
Quechua, spoken by about 4.5 million Peruvians, is one of the most important indigenous languages in South America. It was the official language of the Inca Empire, which stretched across modern-day Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia, Chile, and Argentina. Even after the Spanish conquest, Quechua remained widely spoken and continues to thrive today, particularly in the Andes Mountains.
Quechua’s Influence on Other Languages
Quechua’s historical significance extends beyond South America—it has even contributed words to the English language. Some common words with Quechua origins include:
- Condor – The name of the large Andean vulture.
- Puma – A type of wild cat found in the Americas.
- Quinoa – A staple grain originally cultivated by the Incas.
In addition to English, many Quechua words have been incorporated into Spanish, especially in Peru. Words like choclo (corn), wasi (house), and llama (the Andean animal) are examples of Quechua’s lasting influence on daily life.
A Unique Linguistic Structure
Quechua is distinct from Spanish and English in many ways, particularly in its grammar and pronunciation. One of its most fascinating features is evidentiality—a system in which speakers indicate how they obtained information based on word endings.
For example, in Quechua, a speaker can specify whether they:
- Saw something directly (noqa rikuani – “I saw it”).
- Heard about it from someone else (noqa nisqani – “I was told”).
- Are making an assumption or inference (noqa chaymanta rikuasqa kani – “I suppose it happened”).
This level of linguistic precision is rare in most languages and highlights the depth of expression in Quechua.
Where is Quechua Spoken Today?
Quechua is still widely spoken in Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and parts of Colombia, Chile, and Argentina. In Peru, it is an official language, and the government actively promotes its preservation through bilingual education programs and cultural initiatives.
Even outside of the Andes, you may encounter Quechua speakers in major cities worldwide, as many indigenous communities have migrated abroad, bringing their language and traditions with them.
Why Learn Quechua?
If you’re planning to visit Peru’s Andean regions, learning a few words of Quechua can be a great way to connect with locals. It’s also a living link to the Inca civilization, offering insight into a culture that has shaped the region for centuries. Whether you’re trekking through the Sacred Valley, exploring Cusco, or visiting Machu Picchu, knowing some basic Quechua phrases can make your experience even more enriching!
Aymara: Peru’s Third Official Language
Aymara is an indigenous language spoken primarily in southern Peru, particularly in the Puno region near Lake Titicaca. It is also spoken in parts of Bolivia and northern Chile, making it one of the most significant indigenous languages in South America. Despite being spoken by less than 2% of Peru’s population, Aymara holds deep cultural and historical significance. It was once widely used during the pre-Columbian era and remains an important part of the region’s identity.
A Unique Perspective on Time
One of the most fascinating aspects of Aymara is how its speakers perceive time. Unlike most languages that view the future as ahead and the past as behind, Aymara speakers reverse this concept:
- The past is “in front” because it is known and can be seen.
- The future is “behind” because it is unknown and cannot be seen.
This perspective is reflected in gestures and speech patterns. For example, Aymara speakers might gesture forward when talking about the past and backward when discussing the future—opposite of what most cultures do. This concept has intrigued linguists and cognitive scientists, as it challenges conventional ideas about how humans conceptualize time.
Linguistic Features of Aymara
Aymara is structurally distinct from both Spanish and Quechua, making it a linguistically unique language. Some key features include:
- Only three vowel sounds – Unlike Spanish, which has five vowel sounds, Aymara has only “a,” “i,” and “u.” This limited vowel system gives the language a distinct rhythm.
- Agglutinative structure – Words in Aymara are formed by adding multiple suffixes to a root word, allowing for highly complex expressions in a single word.
- Kinship-based suffixes – Aymara uses suffixes to indicate social relationships, particularly family connections.
Where is Aymara Spoken Today?
Aymara is still actively spoken in rural Andean communities, especially in southern Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. In Peru, efforts have been made to preserve and promote the language through:
- Bilingual education programs, where students learn in both Aymara and Spanish.
- Government recognition, as Aymara is one of Peru’s three official languages.
- Cultural festivals and traditions, which help keep the language alive through music, storytelling, and ceremonies.
While Aymara has seen a decline in speakers over the years, there is a growing movement to revitalize the language and ensure that it remains an integral part of Peruvian identity.
Why Learn Aymara?
For travelers exploring Lake Titicaca, Puno, or Bolivia, learning basic Aymara phrases can be a great way to connect with local communities. Even a simple greeting in Aymara can show respect for the region’s indigenous heritage and make interactions more meaningful.
Lost Languages of Peru
Peru’s incredible linguistic diversity has been shaped by centuries of indigenous civilizations, colonization, and modernization. However, not all of Peru’s languages have survived. It is estimated that around 40 indigenous languages have gone extinct, with many more at risk of disappearing.
Why Do Languages Go Extinct?
Language loss in Peru, as in many other parts of the world, is caused by several factors:
- Colonization and Cultural Suppression – During Spanish rule, indigenous languages were often forbidden or discouraged in favor of Spanish, leading to gradual language erosion.
- Urbanization and Migration – As people move to cities like Lima, Cusco, or Arequipa for work and education, younger generations shift toward Spanish as their primary language.
- Lack of Formal Education – Many indigenous languages have no standardized writing system, making it difficult to preserve them in schools.
- Globalization and Media Influence – Widespread access to Spanish-language media (TV, internet, and books) has reduced the daily use of indigenous languages.
Examples of Lost Languages in Peru
Some of the languages that have disappeared over time include:
- Aguano – Once spoken along the Huallaga River in the Amazon region.
- Culle – The original language of the northern Peruvian Andes, considered extinct since the 19th century.
- Puqina – Thought to have been spoken by the elite of the Tiwanaku civilization and possibly linked to the Inca nobility.
- Tequiraca – A language from the western Amazon, now completely lost.
These languages were not just communication tools—they represented entire ways of life, traditions, and worldviews that have now disappeared.
Efforts to Preserve Indigenous Languages
Despite these losses, organizations and governments are working to protect endangered languages and prevent further extinctions. Some key initiatives include:
- UNESCO Language Preservation Programs – Supporting documentation and revitalization efforts for endangered languages worldwide.
- Peruvian Government Initiatives – Laws have been passed to preserve indigenous languages, including bilingual education programs and official recognition of regional languages.
- Community Efforts – Indigenous groups are actively working to record and teach their native languages to younger generations.
While language loss is a serious threat to cultural heritage, these preservation efforts provide hope that Peru’s linguistic diversity will continue to be celebrated and maintained for future generations.
Want to Explore Peru?
Peru’s linguistic diversity adds to its rich cultural experience. Whether you’re visiting Machu Picchu, exploring Lima, or venturing into the Amazon, knowing a few local phrases can enhance your trip.
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Book an expedition today!
