esen
esen

Junín, the Heart of the Andes and Cradle of History. Located in the central highlands of Peru, it is a region of contrasts, with mountains and extensive plateaus that surpass 4,000 m.a.s.l. (13,123 feet).
 
The capital, Huancayo, is the vital center of the Wanka culture, famous for its history: here, Ramón Castilla abolished slavery in 1854. The fertile Mantaro Valley captivates with its green landscapes, rich craftsmanship, and delicious gastronomy.
 
Near Jauja, Lake Paca (laguna de Pacca) holds the legend of a submerged Inca treasure. In Tarma, the “Pearl of the Andes” (Perla de los Andes), the tradition of engagement rings made with Amancaes root (a type of wild lily) stands out. This area is home to Lake Junín or Chinchaycocha, a national reserve that protects the Junín diver (a local bird in danger of extinction).
 
The region extends towards the central jungle, with towns like Chanchamayo and Satipo, characterized by a warm and humid climate, and vast areas of tropical crops like coffee and citrus fruits. Its rugged Andean geography is connected by the historic “Tren Macho” (Macho Train), a railway line that links Huancayo and Huancavelica.
Andes, jungle, and living culture. Discover the historical heart of Peru and its unique landscapes.

Important details

  • Location: Central highlands and jungle of Peru.
  • Distances from Lima, the capital: 311 km (193.25 miles) by road/ 55 min flight.
  • Average Altitude: 3200 m.a.s.l. (10,498 feet).
  • Climate:
    • Highlands zone: Temperate and dry. Annual average temperature of 13 °C (55.4°F).
    • Jungle zone: Warm, humid, and rainy. Annual average temperature of 27 °C (80.6°F).
  • Important Festivities: Huancayo Carnivals (February/March, movable dates), Feast of the Lord of Muruhuay (May 3, central date), Feast of Santiago (between July 24 and the end of August/September).
  • Best time to travel: From April to October in both zones.
 

WHAT YOU SHOULD NOT MISS IN YOUR VISIT TO Junín

Junín National Reserve (endemic bird watching and biodiversity), Tarma (known as the “Pearl of the Andes” for its flowers and the Huagapo Cave), the Convent of Santa Rosa de Ocopa (history, colonial art, and missionary legacy), the Huaytapallana Snow-capped Mountain (stunning glacial landscapes for trekking and mystical tourism), and the Velo de la Novia and Bayoz Waterfalls (spectacular, easily accessible tropical waterfalls).

Activities Available with 360 Explora

SMALL GROUP

Junin – Trekking Day to the Rajuntay Snowy from Lima

From$39
Snow just 4 hours from Lima! If you love mountain trekking, this route is for you.
0

Quick Search

More Interesting details

Typical dishes of Junín

  • Pachamanca: Varied meats (beef, pork, guinea pig, etc.) cooked with herbs and potatoes underground using hot stones (a traditional earthen oven).
  • Papa a la Huancaína: Boiled potatoes covered with a creamy sauce made of yellow chili pepper (ají amarillo), cheese, and milk.
  • Picante de Cuy: A stew of guinea pig meat in a sauce of ají panca (red chili pepper) and peanuts, served with potatoes and rice.
  • Trucha Frita: Fresh fried trout until crispy, accompanied by potatoes, corn (choclo), and salad.
  • Sopa Verde: A nutritious broth based on seven Andean herbs, with potatoes, cheese, and sometimes egg.
  • Huallpa Chupe: A substantive broth made from free-range chicken (gallina de chacra) with potatoes, noodles, and vegetables.

We recommend you…

The most recommended restaurants in the department of Junín, according to platforms like Tripadvisor, are:
 
  • Restaurante Turístico Huancahuasi – Huancayo: A benchmark for central highlands gastronomy. Its main attraction is the complete cultural experience: it offers Novo-Andean food and traditional Andean dishes, complemented by live Peruvian music and dances.
  • Restaurante Detrás de la Catedral: Strategically located in the center of Huancayo, very close to the Cathedral, this restaurant is popular for its Peruvian and Latin cuisine. It stands out for the quality of its food and frequently for superior customer service, offering a reliable and centrally located dining experience.

Post Gallery on Instagram

Find all our Post from Junín with this Hashtag #junincon360explora

Do not forget to tag us also in your photos to be able to share your publications in the Feed.

KNOW OUR NEW TRAVEL CONDITIONS

Flexible Reservations

Reschedule your Full Day up to 7 days before the date of your trip and pay zero penalties.

Cancel Free

Do you have a medical emergency and need to cancel your Full Day?

Don’t worry! Cancel up to 3 days before your reservation (*) and you will receive a full refund.

Small Groups

Groups of 15 people maximum to avoid crowds during activities.

Do you have any questions?

Get in contact with us