Lima, Peru Elevation

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The biggest city in the country of Peru and also the nation's capital, Lima is one of the most beautiful places in South America. Located on the Pacific Coast among the valleys of the Lurin, Rimac, and Chillon rivers, Lima covers an area of 1,031.8 square miles and has an estimated population of 8.8 million people, with over 12.1 million in the surrounding Lima Metropolitan Ara, which is the biggest of its kind in Peru and the third biggest in all of the Americas.

Lima, Peru Info and Elevation

Who founded Lima?
- Lima was founded in 1535 by Spanish explorer and conquistador, Francisco Pizarro.
What was Lima originally called?
- Lima was first named 'Ciudad de Los Reyes', meaning 'City of Kings'.
What role did Lima play in Spanish South America?
- Lima served as the capital of Spain’s South American territory.
- It quickly became a thriving trade location.
What major disaster affected Lima in 1687?
- A 1687 earthquake led to the destruction of many buildings in Lima.
Why did Lima's influence decline in the late 17th century?
- As other major South American cities grew stronger, Lima’s influence began to weaken.
What happened to Lima in 1746?
- Attempts to rebuild Lima were interrupted by another major earthquake in 1746.
How did Lima contribute to Peru’s independence?
- Lima played a key role in Peru’s struggle for independence from Spain.
- It became the capital of the new republic.
What happened to Lima in 1940?
- In 1940, Lima was hit by another highly destructive earthquake.
- This led to yet another rebuilding process.
How has Lima evolved in the 20th and 21st centuries?
- Despite past disasters, Lima rose from the ashes and became a key commercial, cultural, touristic, and economic hub.
- Today, it is a major city for both Peru and South America.

Elevation of Lima, Peru

What does the elevation of a city tell us?
- The elevation of a city tells us how high or low that location is in relation to sea level.
What is the typical elevation of major cities worldwide?
- Many major cities around the world are constructed in coastal locations at relatively low elevations below 500 feet (152 m).
How does Lima’s elevation vary?
- Despite being on the Pacific Coast of Peru, Lima's elevation varies enormously due to its location on valleys and mountain slopes.
- The elevation of Lima ranges from as low as 0 feet (0 m) near the Pacific Ocean to as high as 5,090 feet (1,550 m) on the slopes further inland.
What is the average elevation of Peru?
- The average elevation of Peru is 5,102 feet (1,555 m).
- Even Lima’s highest point is entirely below the national average.
What is the highest point in Peru?
- The highest point in Peru is Huascarán, a mountain in the Cordillera Blanca range, which is part of the Andes.
- Huascarán has an elevation of 22,205 feet (6,768 m).
What is the lowest point in Peru?
- The lowest point in Peru is the Bayóvar Depression, located in the Sechura Desert.
- It has an elevation of 112 feet (34 m) below sea level.
What is the elevation of Cusco?
- Cusco, one of the most famous and visited cities in Peru, has an elevation of 11,152 feet (3,399 m).
What is the elevation of Machu Picchu?
- The famous historical site of Machu Picchu has an elevation of 7,927 feet (2,430 m).
What are the elevations of other major cities in Peru?
- Arequipa – Elevation of 7,661 feet (2,335 m).
- Trujillo – Elevation of just 112 feet (34 m).
- The elevation of Lima is therefore lower than most other major cities in Peru.

Lima Elevation, Climate and More

What type of climate does Lima have?
- Due to Lima's unique elevation and coastal location, it has a mild desert climate with aspects of a subtropical climate.
Do temperatures in Lima change dramatically throughout the year?
- Lima experiences relatively warm temperatures that do not change drastically throughout the year.
How much rainfall does Lima receive?
- Lima has very dry conditions, with around 18 rainy days per year.
- The city receives just 6 inches of rain annually.
What is the hottest month in Lima?
- February is the hottest month of the year.
- It has average highs of 80°F (27°C).
What is the coolest month in Lima?
- August is the coolest month.
- It has average lows of 60°F (15°C).
What are some of the most popular attractions in Lima?
- Lima is a large and historic city with many landmarks and attractions.
- Some of the most popular sites in Lima include:
  - Plaza Mayor
  - Costa Verde
  - Cathedral of Lima
  - Government Palace
  - Larco Museum
What makes Lima a popular destination?
- The city's unique cuisine and architecture attract many visitors each year.
- Live music and other entertainment can be enjoyed throughout Lima.

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Table of Contents:

1. Lima, Peru Info and Elevation
2. Elevation of Lima, Peru
3. Lima Elevation, Climate and More