Huancavelica Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful region of Huancavelica in Peru with our comprehensive travel guide. From must-visit attractions to outdoor adventures, this guide provides all the information you need to plan your trip.


Introduction to Huancavelica

Located in the Southern Sierra region of Peru, Huancavelica is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It’s an area rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Peruvian culture and explore lesser-known parts of the country. Huancavelica is a small city surrounded by towering mountains and offers visitors a glimpse of traditional Andean life.

List of Places to Visit in Huancavelica

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Cathedral of Huancavelica - Built in the 16th century, this cathedral is an important example of colonial architecture in Huancavelica.

  2. The Santa Barbara Convent - A stunning example of colonial architecture that houses a museum displaying ancient artifacts and religious art.

  3. The Museum of the Region of Huancavelica - A museum that showcases pre-Columbian artifacts and tells the story of Huancavelica’s rich cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Huancavelica: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. The Salt Mines of Maras - Located about two hours from Huancavelica, the salt mines of Maras are a beautiful and unique natural attraction.

  2. The Jatunpampa Archaeological Complex - A vast complex that includes ancient ruins and stunning mountain landscapes.

  3. The Huaytará Geoglyphs - These ancient geoglyphs are located in the town of Huaytará and provide an intriguing glimpse into the region’s pre-Columbian history.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Huancavelica

  1. The Huaytapallana Trek - This trek provides stunning views of the Andean Mountains and the Huancavelica Valley.

  2. The Huachocolpa Trek - This trek leads to the Huachocolpa Hydroelectric Power Plant and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

  3. The Condorcunca Trek - This trek takes you through stunning landscapes, including crystal-clear lakes and lush valleys.

Best Things to Do in Huancavelica: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a City Tour - Explore the city’s colonial architecture and cultural landmarks with a knowledgeable local guide.

  2. Visit Local Markets - Discover the flavors and products of Huancavelica by visiting local markets, such as the Mercado Central or the Mercado de Pocpa.

  3. Participate in a Traditional Ceremony - Huancavelica is known for its vibrant and colorful celebrations, such as the Festividad de la Virgen del Rosario in October.

Week-Long Itinerary for Huancavelica

Day Activity
Day 1 City tour and visit to the Cathedral of Huancavelica
Day 2 Huaytapallana Trek
Day 3 Visit the Santa Barbara Convent and Museum of the Region of Huancavelica
Day 4 Huachocolpa Trek
Day 5 Participate in a traditional ceremony
Day 6 Visit the Salt Mines of Maras
Day 7 Condorcunca Trek

Food and Drink Scene of Huancavelica

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pachamanca - A traditional dish made with meats, potatoes, and other vegetables cooked in an underground oven.

  2. Chicharrón de Res - Beef fried to perfection and served with corn or potatoes.

  3. Chuño - A dried potato that is used in many traditional dishes and is a staple in the Andean diet.

Local Beverages

  1. Chicha Morada - A refreshing purple drink made from purple corn, pineapple, and cinnamon.

  2. Mate de Coca - A traditional tea made from coca leaves that is said to help combat altitude sickness.

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

  1. Hotel Maria Angola - A centrally located hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms.

  2. Hostal del Inca - A budget-friendly option that offers basic services and comfortable rooms.

  3. La Casa de Mamayacchi - A charming guesthouse that offers private rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

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

  1. Alpaca Wool Products - Huancavelica is known for its fine alpaca wool products, including colorful blankets, scarves, and sweaters.

  2. Pottery - The region is known for its beautiful hand-painted pottery, which makes for a unique and beautiful souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Huancavelica

Huancavelica has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through its vibrant and colorful traditional celebrations. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions and customs, including traditional clothing and ceremonies.

Best Time to Visit Huancavelica

The best time to visit Huancavelica is from May to September, which is the dry season and offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Huancavelica

Do:

  • Respect local traditions and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take appropriate measures to combat altitude sickness.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Take photos of people without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Huancavelica

Huancavelica is generally safe for travelers, but visitors should take precautions such as not carrying valuables in public and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Huancavelica

Altitude sickness can be a concern in Huancavelica due to the high altitude, so visitors should take appropriate measures to acclimate to the altitude, such as drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous activities in the first few days.

Getting to Huancavelica: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Huancavelica

The closest airport is in Ayacucho, which is about 135 miles from Huancavelica.

Bus Stations Near Huancavelica

There are regular bus services to Huancavelica from major cities in Peru, including Lima and Ayacucho.

Other Options

Taxis are a common mode of transportation in Huancavelica, and there are also private tour companies that offer transportation and guided tours.

How to Get Around in Huancavelica

Walking is the best way to get around the city center, but taxis are available for longer journeys or traveling at night.

Where to Go Next from Huancavelica: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Ayacucho - A colonial town known for its vibrant art scene and colorful Easter celebrations.

  2. Huancayo - A bustling city located about three hours from Huancavelica that is known for its vibrant food scene and museums.

Conclusion

Huancavelica is a fascinating and beautiful destination in Peru that offers visitors a chance to explore a lesser-known part of the country. With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this Southern Sierra gem. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide and get ready to discover Huancavelica for yourself.