A crime wave is sweeping the Latin American country, corruption is rampant, and distrust of politicians is monumental among young voters. In addition, political problems have meant that the gate to the presidential palace has become a revolving door.
Among the 35 candidates running in the first round of the presidential election are a former minister, a comedian and the daughter of ousted former president Alberto Fujimori.
More than 27 million people are eligible to vote in Peru, where voting is mandatory.
A second and decisive round of elections will be held in June if none of the candidates receives a majority.
