A bustling metropolis blending modern facades with rich cultural traditions, Huancayo sits in the picturesque Peruvian highlands. Its city center boasts tranquil parks, bustling markets and geological formations, while the surrounding region provides hiking adventures to a glistening blue glacier.
Things to do in Huancayo
Start your Huancayo holiday at the Grand Plaza Constitucion in the city center, then admire the neoclassical architecture and stained-glass windows adorning Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity. Stroll the picturesque pathways lining Identity Park Huanca, where sculptures pay homage to the region’s pre-Inca culture.
Time your visit with Huancayo’s weekly Sunday fair, which dominates 10 city blocks and is lined with hundreds of local vendors selling their wares. You can pick up handmade crafts, such as carved gourds, jewelry and textiles, or sample some of the region’s local specialties.
Nature enthusiasts can explore Torre Torre, a series of gigantic geological formations that can reach up to 30 meters tall. Admire the collection of red-clay structures that were formed after many years of erosion, then witness the bird’s-eye view of Huancayo below.
Looking for an adventure? Take a day trip to Huaytapallana glacier, located at the highest peak in the Andes mountain range of Peru. Marvel at turquoise lakes and climb atop the glacier to capture views of the snow-capped mountains from 5,000 meters above sea level.
Getting around Huancayo
You can fly into Francisco Carle Airport, then make the hour drive into Huancayo’s city center or travel to Lima via the trans-Andean Ferrocarril Central Andino, one of the world’s highest train routes. In town, the most convenient way to get around is by bus or taxi.