25 Peruvian Spanish Words That Bring the Andes to Life

Peru is a country rich in history, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant culture reflected in its unique Spanish expressions. Whether you're wandering through the bustling streets of Lima, trekking to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, or savoring ceviche by the sea, the words locals use add color to every experience. In this article, we’ll explore 25 Peruvian Spanish words and phrases that will bring you closer to the heart of this enchanting country.

This article takes you on a deeper journey through Peruvian Spanish, highlighting expressions that are not only fun to learn but also deeply rooted in the culture. Whether you're a traveler, a language enthusiast, or someone preparing to explore this Andean gem, these 25 words and phrases will enrich your connection to Peru and its people.

If you're eager to immerse yourself even further, 20 Peruvian Marvels is an insightful guide that offers even more cultural treasures, stories, and insights that will enhance your experience and appreciation of the country.

What Makes Peruvian Spanish Unique?

Peruvian Spanish stands out due to its blend of indigenous influences, colonial history, and regional diversity. Quechua and Aymara, the main indigenous languages of Peru, have contributed many words and expressions still widely used today. Additionally, certain phrases have developed uniquely Peruvian meanings, giving their Spanish a distinct flair.

Words that originated in ancient Andean traditions have been preserved or adapted into modern speech. Other expressions carry double meanings or reflect cultural values, making communication in Peru both expressive and rich with nuance.

If you're learning Spanish, these expressions will give you practical vocabulary and a deeper cultural context. They’ll also help you connect with locals in an authentic and respectful way.

1. Chévere

Cool or awesome.

Example: Ese lugar es muy chévere para tomar fotos.

Originally from Caribbean Spanish, chévere has found a happy home in Peru. Use it to describe anything fun, beautiful, or impressive

2. Jato

House.

Example: Después de la fiesta, regresamos a mi jato.

A slang word that might puzzle Spanish speakers from other countries, jato is widely understood in Peru. It’s informal and friendly.

3. Chamba

Work or job

Example: Conseguí una chamba en el centro de Lima.

The origin of chamba is uncertain, but it's a casual and common way to refer to employment. Job seekers often say they’re "buscando chamba.”

4. Pata

Friend or buddy.

Example: Voy al cine con mis patas.

While pata literally means "paw" or "leg," in Peru it's a warm, casual way to refer to a close friend.

5. Chiclayo

Refers to someone from the city of Chiclayo or an object related to the area.

Note: Although it's the name of a city, when used contextually, Chiclayo can refer to people or things from there. For example, Ese ceviche es bien Chiclayo can imply it's authentic or northern-style.

6. Guachimán

Security guard.

Example: El guachimán del edificio es muy amable.

Borrowed from the English "watchman," this word reflects Peru's adaptive language. Guachimanes are common in neighborhoods and buildings.

7. Huaraca

Traditional slingshot used in the Andes. 

Example: En las fiestas tradicionales, se usa la huaraca en los juegos.

From Quechua, huaraca is still used in some rural festivities and symbolizes ancestral knowledge and defense.

8. Charqui

Dried meat, originally from indigenous traditions.

Example: El charqui es un alimento típico de los Andes.

An indigenous method of meat preservation, charqui is the root of the English word "jerky." It's high in protein and portable—perfect for highland travel.

9. Chela

Beer.

Example: Nos tomamos unas chelas para celebrar.

A fun, colloquial way to say beer. If someone offers you a chela, they’re inviting you to relax and socialize.

10. Yapa

A little extra, often used in markets. 

Example: La vendedora me dio una yapa de papas.

Originating from Quechua, yapa embodies generosity. Vendors often give a small freebie to loyal customers.

11. Ñaña/Ñaño

Sibling (often affectionate).

Example: Mi ñaña me ayudó con mis tareas.

These Quechua-derived terms are used tenderly between siblings or close cousins, strengthening family bonds.

12. Causa

Mate or buddy, also a type of Peruvian dish.

Example: Gracias, causa, por tu ayuda.

Culturally rich, causa refers to both a cherished friend and a layered dish of mashed potato, avocado, and protein. Both uses celebrate something beloved.

13. Chifas

Chinese-Peruvian restaurants.

Example: Los chifas en Lima son deliciosos.

A product of Chinese immigration, chifas fuse Cantonese cooking with local ingredients. Dishes like arroz chaufa (fried rice) are iconic.

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14. Cancha

Toasted corn or a playing field.

Example: Sirven cancha como entrada en los restaurantes.

Cancha is crunchy corn often served as an appetizer. It also means a sports field, showing the word’s versatility.

15. Soroche

Altitude sickness.

Example: Bebe mate de coca para evitar el soroche.

Essential vocabulary for travelers in the Andes, soroche describes symptoms like headache or nausea due to high elevation.

16. Picarón

A sweet Peruvian dessert. 

Example: Los picarones son irresistibles con miel de chancaca.

Made from squash and sweet potato, picarones are fried and drenched in syrup. A must-try street food in Peru.

17. Huaca

Archaeological site or sacred place.

Example: Visitamos una huaca en Lima.

Often from pre-Columbian times, huacas are archaeological treasures and spiritual places, many still standing in urban areas.

18. Palta 

Avocado, also used to describe embarrassment.

Example: ¡Qué palta me dio hablar en público!

This dual-meaning word can describe a delicious fruit or a moment of social awkwardness. Context is everything.

19. Camote

Sweet potato, but also “to be in love.”

Example: Estoy camote por esa chica.

Another metaphorical use: just as camote is soft and sweet, someone "enamorado" is emotionally tender.

20. Cholo/Chola

Often affectionate for someone with Andean roots.

Example: Mi cholo es el mejor amigo que tengo.

Although once derogatory, these terms have been reclaimed and are often used proudly to express heritage and affection.

21. Tayta

Quechua for father or elder.

Example: El tayta de la comunidad lideró la ceremonia.

Deeply rooted in Quechua, tayta conveys reverence and respect for wise, older men.

22. Wawa

Quechua for baby or child.

Example: La wawa está aprendiendo a caminar.

Still widely used in both Quechua-speaking and urban communities, wawa is tender and endearing.

23. Anticucho

A traditional Peruvian dish of grilled meat skewers.

Example: Disfrutamos anticuchos en la feria.

Often made from beef heart, anticuchos are marinated and grilled over open flames. A flavorful street food with roots in Afro-Peruvian cuisine.

24. Cholita

A term of endearment for women with indigenous roots. 

Example: La cholita nos enseñó a tejer.

Cholita is used lovingly to refer to women who wear traditional Andean attire, often guardians of craft and tradition.

25. Carapulcra 

A traditional Andean stew.

Example: La carapulcra es uno de mis platos favoritos.

Made from dried potatoes, peanuts, and meat, carapulcra is hearty and historic—dating back to pre-Columbian times.