At its height in the early 16th century, the Inca Empire extended across a vast region of South America, covering parts of modern-day Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, among other territories. The empire stretched approximately 2,500 miles along the western coast of South America and included a diverse range of geographic features, from the Andes mountains to coastal deserts. The Incas built an extensive road network that facilitated communication, trade, and military movement throughout this expansive area. Their civilization was marked by impressive architectural achievements, agricultural innovation, and a centralized governance system.