Huancayo - Discovering Peru

Travelling to Huancayo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Huancayo, a pretty good destination in Peru (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Huancayo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Huancayo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Peru, here's everything to know about Huancayo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Huancayo

Huancayo is a city located in the central highlands of Peru. It is the capital of the Junin Region and has a population of approximately 400,000 people. Huancayo is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery. The city is surrounded by the Andes Mountains and is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, trekking, and mountain climbing. Additionally, the region surrounding Huancayo is home to several indigenous communities, who maintain their traditional way of life and offer visitors a unique glimpse into their rich culture and history.

What to visit in Huancayo

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Huancayo, Peru: 1. Plaza de la Constitución: Located in the heart of Huancayo, the Plaza de la Constitución is a beautiful public square that features a historic monument known as "La Montaña," a statue of a woman holding a corn stalk, which represents the importance of farming in the area.
2. Cerrito de la Libertad: The Cerrito de la Libertad is a small hill located in the center of Huancayo that offers visitors a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for taking photos and enjoying a picnic.
3. Iglesia San Francisco de Asís: Dating back to the 17th century, the Iglesia San Francisco de Asís is a colonial-era church located in the historic center of Huancayo. It features beautiful architecture and artwork, including a stunning cedar wood altar.
4. Museo de la Identidad Wanka: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Wanka people, an indigenous group that has lived in the region for centuries. It features exhibits on traditional Wanka clothing, music, dance, and more.
5. Torre Torre: Located about 30 minutes outside of Huancayo, Torre Torre is a stunning natural rock formation that is made up of towering, cone-shaped formations. It's a popular spot for hiking and taking in the scenic beauty of the area.
6. Laguna de Paca: This tranquil lake is located about 45 minutes outside of Huancayo and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. It's also a great place to spot local wildlife, including birds and Andean foxes.
7. Chupaca: This small town located just outside of Huancayo is known for its delicious food, particularly its savory empanadas. Visitors can also visit the local market to buy fresh produce and handicrafts made by local artisans.
Overall, Huancayo offers a rich cultural experience with its historic sites, museums, and indigenous communities, as well as stunning natural beauty with its mountains, lakes, and rock formations.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Peru, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Huancayo.

When to go on holiday to Huancayo

The best time to visit Huancayo (Peru) is from June to September. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, it is important to keep in mind that temperatures can drop significantly at night, so warm clothes are recommended. It is also worth noting that the months of July and August tend to be the busiest, as this is the peak tourist season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Huancayo

There are different ways to get to Huancayo, Peru depending on your starting point. Below are some of the common ways: 1. By Bus: From Lima, there are several bus companies that offer daily services to Huancayo. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours. You can book your tickets online or at the bus terminals in Lima.
2. By Train: Ferrocarril Central Andino offers train services from Lima to Huancayo. The train journey is longer than the bus journey, taking around 12 hours, but it provides a scenic route through the Andes Mountains. It is recommended to book tickets in advance as the train runs only a few times a week.
3. By Car: You can rent a car in Lima and drive to Huancayo, which takes approximately 6-7 hours. However, be aware that driving in Peru can be challenging and the roads are not always well-maintained.
4. By Plane: There is an airport in Jauja, which is about 45 minutes away from Huancayo. However, there are only a few flights per week from Lima. It is recommended to check flight availability and schedules as they can vary.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Huancayo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Huancayo

Huancayo is a city located in the central highlands of Peru and is known for its traditional Andean cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Huancayo: 1. Papa a la Huancaína: This is a dish made with boiled potatoes served on a bed of lettuce, topped with a spicy, cheesy sauce made with yellow chili pepper and fresh cheese. It's often served as an appetizer or a side dish.
2. Chupe de Camarones: This is a hearty and flavorful shrimp soup made with potatoes, corn, milk, and cheese. It's a popular dish during the winter months and is often served with a side of rice.
3. Chicharrón: This is a dish made with fried pork or pork belly that's crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It's typically served with boiled potatoes, corn, and a sauce made with lime juice, onion, and cilantro.
4. Rocoto Relleno: This is a spicy dish made with rocoto peppers, which are stuffed with ground beef, onions, garlic, and peas, and topped with cheese. It's often served with a side of potatoes or rice.
5. Olluquito con Charqui: This is a dish made with olluco, a root vegetable that's native to the Andes, and charqui, which is dried and salted meat. It's often served as a stew with tomatoes, onions, and herbs.
6. Cuy al Horno: This is a dish made with roasted guinea pig, which is a delicacy in the Andean region of Peru. It's often served with a side of potatoes and a spicy dipping sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Peru here.

Is Huancayo an expensive destination for tourists?

Huancayo is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are relatively low compared to other tourist destinations in Peru. However, prices can vary depending on the season and the type of tourism activities that you plan to do. It's always a good idea to compare prices and research ahead of time to ensure that you are getting the best deal.

Where to find accomodation in Huancayo

The best areas to find accommodation in Huancayo are the historic center, Chilca and El Tambo. The historic center offers easy access to the main attractions, while Chilca is known for its natural thermal baths and El Tambo is a quieter residential area with a variety of lodging options.
You can check hotel prices at Huancayo here:
Booking.com

Is Huancayo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Huancayo is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other city, there are certain precautions that should be taken to ensure your safety. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded or poorly lit areas. You should also keep your valuables and important documents in a safe place and be aware of your surroundings at all times. It is also advisable to follow the advice of your hotel or tour operator regarding areas to avoid or best times to visit certain places. Overall, with appropriate safety measures in place, Huancayo can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Peru here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Huancayo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Huancayo the most?

Huancayo, Peru is a great destination for families or travelers interested in cultural experiences and natural beauty. It is known for its traditional costumes, festivals, handicrafts, music, and dance, making it an excellent spot for those interested in immersing themselves in Peru's Andean culture. The region is also rich in natural resources, with nearby national reserves and parks providing excellent hiking opportunities and breathtaking vistas. For adventurous and active travelers, there are also opportunities to go fishing, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Overall, Huancayo can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, but it may appeal most to those drawn to cultural experiences and outdoor activities.

How to get around Huancayo

There are mainly three modes of transportation available in Huancayo, Peru: 1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and an affordable way to get around Huancayo. They don't have a metered system, so it's best to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi.
2. Colectivos: Colectivos are shared vans that serve as a form of public transportation. They follow specific routes and are generally cheaper than taxis.
3. Buses: There are different types of buses available in Huancayo, ranging from local buses to intercity buses. They are often the cheapest option, but schedules and routes can be somewhat confusing for tourists.

What to see around Huancayo

Sure, here are some suggestions for day trips from Huancayo, Peru: 1. Tunanmarca: Tunanmarca is a pre-Incan archaeological site located about 20 kilometers from Huancayo. The site is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Mantaro Valley and offers stunning panoramic views. 2. Huarivilca: Huarivilca is a small mountain village about 30 kilometers from Huancayo. The town is known for its traditional textiles and crafts and for the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. 3. Laguna de Paca: Laguna de Paca is a beautiful high-altitude lake located about 50 kilometers from Huancayo. The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers great opportunities for hiking and picnicking. 4. Pariacaca Mountain: Pariacaca is a mountain peak located about 60 kilometers from Huancayo. The mountain is considered sacred by Andean people and offers great hiking and climbing opportunities. 5. Chanchamayo Valley: Chanchamayo Valley is a beautiful area located about 100 kilometers from Huancayo. The valley is known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and hot springs.
For every travel information about Peru you can click here.

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