What language do they speak in Peru? Guide 2024

Are you curious about the languages spoken in Peru? Join us on a linguistic journey as we explore the rich tapestry of communication in this enchanting South American country. From the commonly used Spanish to indigenous languages like Quechua and Aymara, this comprehensive guide provides detailed information in lists, tables, and summaries.

What will you find here?

1. What language do they speak in Peru?
2. Types of Spanish
3. Used slang in Peru
4. What are the official languages of Peru
5. Other Indigenous languages of Peru
6. Languages in Peru distribution

What language do they speak in Peru?

In Peru, the most widely spoken and official language is Spanish, which is used in government, media, and education. However, Peru is a multilingual nation with a rich linguistic heritage, including a significant number of indigenous languages.

Language	Description	Prevalence
Spanish	Official and most widely spoken language. Used in government, media, and education.	Nationwide
Quechua	Indigenous language with various regional dialects. Second most spoken language in Peru.	Andean regions, especially central and southern Peru
Aymara	Indigenous language, primarily in the southern Andes.	Southern Peru, around Lake Titicaca
Shipibo-Conibo	Indigenous language of the Shipibo and Conibo peoples.	Amazon rainforest, Ucayali region
Asháninka	Language of the Asháninka people, one of the largest indigenous groups in the Amazon.	Central rainforest regions
Other Indigenous Languages	Numerous other indigenous languages, each spoken by smaller indigenous groups.	Primarily in the Amazon rainforest region

 

Types of Spanish

Spanish in Peru exhibits variations and regional nuances. Here’s an overview of the types of Spanish spoken:

Type of Spanish	Region	Characteristics
Coastal Peruvian Spanish	Coastal Areas (including Lima)	– Clear and slower pace – ‘S’ sound often dropped at the end of words – Influences from African and Asian languages
Andean Peruvian Spanish	Andean Highlands	– Strong influence from Quechua language – Distinct pronunciation and vocabulary – Unique rhythm and intonation
Amazonian Peruvian Spanish	Amazon Rainforest Region	– Influences from various Amazonian indigenous languages – Unique vocabulary and expressions
Limeño Spanish	Lima (Capital City)	– Considered standard in Peru – Relatively neutral accent and vocabulary – Reflects urban and cosmopolitan influences

Used slang in Peru

Peruvian slang, or “jerga,” is an exciting aspect of communication.

Here are some commonly used slang words and phrases in Peru:

1. Jato: Means ‘house’ or ‘home’.

2. Chévere: Used to describe something cool or awesome.

3. Pata: Refers to a friend or buddy.

4. Chamba: Means ‘job’ or ‘work’.

5. Chela: A colloquial term for beer.

6. Luca: Refers to one Peruvian Sol (the currency of Peru).

7. Jamear: Means to eat. Derived from the English word ‘jam’.

8. Chibolo(a): Refers to a young boy or girl, similar to ‘kid’.

9. Flaco(a): Literally means ‘skinny’, but is often used to address someone affectionately, similar to ‘dude’ or ‘babe’.

10. Bróder: Derived from the English word ‘brother’, it’s used for a close friend.

11. Bacán: Another word for cool or fantastic.

12. Fresa: Used to describe someone who is snobbish or overly concerned with appearances. Similar to the English ‘preppy’ or ‘posh’.

13. Achorado: Describes someone who is aggressive or confrontational.

14. Misio: Means someone who has no money or is broke.

15. Tombo: Slang for a police officer.

16. Roche: Refers to an embarrassing situation or shame.

17. Chancar: Means to study hard.

18. Jato(a): An informal term for a boyfriend or girlfriend.

19. Yapear: Comes from the name of a popular money transfer app, meaning to send money via mobile.

20. Chongo: A term for a low-quality or seedy nightclub.

What are the two official languages of Peru, aside from Spanish?

Aside from Spanish, the two other official languages in Peru are Quechua and Aymara. These languages are recognized in the areas where they are predominantly spoken, reflecting the country’s commitment to preserving its rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

1. Quechua: This is the most widely spoken indigenous language in Peru and was the language of the Inca Empire. It has several regional variations and is spoken by millions in the Andean regions of Peru.

2. Aymara: Primarily spoken in the southern Andes, particularly around Lake Titicaca, Aymara is the second most prevalent indigenous language in Peru.

Other Indigenous languages of Peru

Peru is a country with a rich linguistic heritage, featuring a diverse array of indigenous languages. While Spanish is the dominant language, many indigenous languages are still spoken, particularly in rural areas and among indigenous communities. Here are some of the notable indigenous languages of Peru:

1. Quechua: The most widely spoken indigenous language in Peru, Quechua has several regional variations. It was the language of the Inca Empire and is still spoken by millions in the Andean regions.

2. Aymara: Primarily spoken in the southern Andes, especially around Lake Titicaca, Aymara is the second most common indigenous language in Peru.

3. Shipibo-Conibo: Spoken by the Shipibo and Conibo peoples in the Amazon rainforest region, particularly in the Ucayali region.

4. Asháninka: The language of the Asháninka people, one of the largest indigenous groups in the Amazon rainforest of Peru.

5. Awajún (Aguaruna): Spoken by the Awajún people in the northern Peruvian Amazon, mainly in the regions of Amazonas and Loreto.

6. Matsigenka (Machiguenga): A language of the Arawakan family, spoken by the Matsigenka people in the southeastern Amazon rainforest.

7. Yine (Piro): Spoken by the Yine people in the Amazon rainforest, particularly in the Madre de Dios region.

8. Shipibo: Predominantly spoken by the Shipibo people in the Ucayali River area in the Amazon rainforest.

9. Quechua of Lambayeque: A distinct form of Quechua spoken in the Lambayeque region of northern Peru.

10. Huambisa (Wampis): Spoken by the Huambisa people in the Amazonas and Loreto regions.

Languages in Peru distribution

Understanding where each language is predominantly spoken enhances your appreciation of Peru’s regional diversity:

Language	Primary Regions Spoken	Description
Spanish	Nationwide	Official language, widely spoken across all regions.
Quechua	Andean regions, especially in Central and Southern Peru	Indigenous language with various dialects, second most spoken language.
Aymara	Southern Peru, around Lake Titicaca	Indigenous language primarily spoken in the southern Andes.
Shipibo-Conibo	Amazon rainforest, Ucayali region	Indigenous language of the Shipibo and Conibo peoples in the Amazon.
Asháninka	Central rainforest regions	Language of the Asháninka people, one of the largest indigenous groups in the Amazon.
Awajún (Aguaruna)	Northern Peruvian Amazon, mainly in Amazonas and Loreto	Indigenous language spoken by the Awajún people.
Matsigenka	Southeastern Amazon rainforest	Indigenous language of the Matsigenka people in the Amazon.
Yine (Piro)	Amazon rainforest, particularly in Madre de Dios	Indigenous language spoken by the Yine people.
Wampis (Huambisa)	Amazonas and Loreto regions	Indigenous language of the Huambisa people.
Other Indigenous Languages	Various, mostly in the Amazon rainforest region	Numerous other indigenous languages, each spoken by specific ethnic groups.

 

FAQs – Answering your burning questions

 

Is it necessary to speak Spanish when visiting Peru?

While many locals speak Spanish, especially in urban areas, learning a few basic phrases can enhance your experience, especially in rural regions.

Can I learn Quechua or Aymara during my visit?

Yes, some language schools and cultural centers offer courses to visitors interested in learning indigenous languages.

How diverse is Peruvian sign language?

Peruvian Sign Language varies, but it’s generally understood throughout the country. Learning a few basic signs can be useful.