Huánuco Travel Guide

Discover the cultural, natural, and adventure attractions of Huánuco, Peru, as well as tips for hotels, transportation, and local customs.


Introduction to Huánuco

Huánuco is a city located in the Central Sierra region of Peru, in South America. The city is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Huánuco is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the authentic Peruvian way of life outside of the major tourist centers.

List of Places to Visit in Huánuco

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Archeological Complex of Kotosh: This archeological site is located just outside of Huánuco and is considered one of the oldest cultures in Peru. The site features the Temple of the Crossed Hands, a unique structure with stone sculptures depicting hands holding various objects.
  • Casa de la Cultura: A museum showcasing the city’s cultural heritage, including displays of local art, traditional clothing, and historical artifacts.
  • Plaza de Armas: The main square of Huánuco features colonial architecture as well as a large flagpole and a statue of a local hero, Leoncio Prado.

Natural Attractions of Huánuco: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tingo Maria National Park: This national park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, and mammals. Its main attraction is the famous Aguaytia lagoon, which offers stunning views and opportunities for boating and fishing.
  • La Bella Durmiente: This unique rock formation located in Tingo Maria National Park resembles a sleeping woman and is a popular spot for trekking and hiking.
  • Huaytapallana Glacier: This glacier is located in the nearby Andes mountains and is a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventures. Visitors can hike up to the glacier or take a guided tour for more information about the area’s ecosystem.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Huánuco

  • Callejón de Huaylas: This valley located in the nearby Ancash region offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in Peru. Visitors can trek through stunning mountain landscapes and stop at local villages to experience the authentic Peruvian way of life.
  • Lago Churup: This lake located near Huaraz is surrounded by towering mountains and offers a challenging trek to reach its turquoise waters. The trek requires a certain level of fitness and acclimatization to the high elevation.

Best Things to Do in Huánuco: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the local markets: Huánuco is known for its bustling local markets, where visitors can find traditional foods, crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to cook traditional Peruvian dishes such as ceviche, ají de gallina, and lomo saltado.
  • Go on a wildlife tour: Join a guided wildlife tour to spot monkeys, birds, and other species native to the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Huánuco

Day Activities
1 Visit Archeological Complex of Kotosh
2 Explore Huánuco’s Colonial Architecture
3 Trek to La Bella Durmiente
4 Go Boating at Aguaytia Lagoon
5 Take a Cooking Class
6 Visit a Local Market
7 Enjoy a Day Trip to Tingo Maria National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Huánuco

Must-Try Dishes

  • Silpancho: A dish made from beef, rice, and potatoes, served with a fried egg on top.
  • Pachamanca: An Andean dish made by roasting meat and vegetables in an underground oven.
  • Caldo de Gallina: A hearty chicken soup made with vegetables and rice.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A fermented corn drink popular in many parts of South America.
  • Pisco Sour: A classic Peruvian cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, and egg white.
  • Inka Kola: A bright yellow soda that is Peru’s most popular soft drink.

Where to Stay in Huánuco: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Boutique San Sebastián: This hotel located in central Huánuco offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant specializing in Peruvian cuisine.
  • Hostel Adelas: A budget-friendly option located near the city center, featuring clean rooms and a friendly staff.
  • El Abuelo Hospedaje: A guesthouse located in a quiet neighborhood, offering comfortable rooms and a communal kitchen.

What to Buy in Huánuco: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Alpaca Wool Clothing: Huánuco is known for its high-quality alpaca wool clothing, including sweaters, scarves, and hats.
  • Ceramics: Local artisans create intricate ceramics with traditional patterns and designs.
  • Coffee and Chocolate: Huánuco produces high-quality coffee and chocolate, which are excellent souvenirs to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Huánuco

  • Respect for elders: Peruvians have a strong sense of respect for their elders, and visitors should be mindful of this when interacting with locals.
  • Use of Spanish and Quechua: While Spanish is the official language of Peru, many rural areas, including Huánuco, also use Quechua, an indigenous language.
  • Religious Festivals: Huánuco celebrates various Catholic festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of the Cross and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Best Time to Visit Huánuco

The best time to visit Huánuco is from May to September when the weather is dry and sunny. However, the wet season, from October to April, can also be a beautiful time to visit, with lush vegetation and a lower number of tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Huánuco

Do:

  • Respect local customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dress codes, religious practices, and traditional beliefs.
  • Learn some Spanish: While it’s possible to travel in Peru without speaking Spanish, learning some basic phrases can make your trip much more enjoyable.
  • Try the local food: Huánuco is known for its delicious cuisine, and trying traditional dishes is a great way to experience local culture.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing: As a conservative country, Peru values modest dress, particularly in rural areas like Huánuco.
  • Take photos without permission: While most locals are friendly and welcoming, it’s important to ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.
  • Drink tap water: Peruvian tap water is not safe to drink, so make sure to stick to bottled water or filtered water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Huánuco

Huánuco is a safe city, but visitors should take some precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded areas. It’s also important to be aware of potential scams and pickpocketing, particularly in tourist areas.

Health in Huánuco

Visitors to Huánuco should take precautions to avoid altitude sickness, particularly if traveling to high-altitude areas like Callejón de Huaylas or Huaytapallana. It’s also important to drink bottled water, avoid street food if possible, and take preventative measures against mosquito bites.

Getting to Huánuco: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Huánuco

The nearest airport to Huánuco is the Coronel FAP Leoncio Prado Airport (HUU), which is a domestic airport with flights to and from Lima.

Bus Stations Near Huánuco

Huánuco has a bus terminal that offers routes throughout the region and to other major cities in Peru, such as Lima and Huaraz.

Other Options

  • Private Transportation: Taxis and private cars can be arranged in Huánuco for private or customized tours.
  • Day Tours: Many tour operators offer day trips to nearby attractions, such as Tingo Maria National Park and Callejón de Huaylas.

How to Get Around in Huánuco

Huánuco is a small city that can easily be explored on foot or by taxi. It’s also possible to rent bicycles or hire a guide for trekking and hiking excursions outside of the city.

Where to Go Next from Huánuco: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tingo Maria National Park: Located just a few hours from Huánuco, Tingo Maria National Park is a popular destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
  • Callejón de Huaylas: This valley located in the nearby Ancash region offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in Peru.
  • Huaraz: This mountain city located northeast of Huánuco is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Andes mountains and the Huascarán National Park.

Conclusion

Huánuco is a hidden gem in Peru, offering visitors a unique and authentic experience of Peruvian culture, history, and natural beauty. From archeological sites and historical museums to adventure activities and local cuisine, Huánuco has something for everyone. Follow this guide to plan your ultimate Huánuco adventure.