Things To Do
in Jauja
Jauja sits in the Mantaro Valley of central Peru, a historic highland city that blends agricultural heritage with colonial architecture. Set at about 3300 meters above sea level, it offers clear skies, panoramic mountain views, and a relaxed pace away from larger tourist hubs. The town is a gateway to Andean culture and the surrounding valleys, making it ideal for day trips and gentle hikes.
Visitors will find welcoming markets, traditional cuisine, and photo-worthy plazas that reveal Peru's Andean roots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Jauja Airport and take in the stunning views of the Andes Mountains as you drive to your accommodation. After settling in, enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a local café, sampling dishes like tamales and fresh fruit. Spend some time acclimating to the altitude while exploring the nearby Plaza de Armas.
Visit the iconic Jauja Lagoon, where you can stroll along the shores or rent a paddleboat for a unique experience. Take photos of the picturesque landscape, with its shimmering waters and surrounding lush vegetation. Enjoy a local lunch at one of the lakeside restaurants, indulging in regional specialties.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in the plaza to watch the locals go about their evening routines. Enjoy a leisurely dinner, perhaps trying the local delicacy 'pachamanca', cooked underground with hot stones. Wrap up your day by strolling through the charming streets, soaking in the ambiance of Jauja under a starlit sky.
Take a short bus ride to the bustling town of Huancayo and start your day with breakfast in a local market, sampling sweet pastries and freshly squeezed juices. Visit the Parque de la Identidad Huanca to appreciate its cultural significance and beautiful sculptures. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as locals begin their daily routines.
Explore the Mercado Central and immerse yourself in the local culture, purchasing handmade crafts and tasty snacks. Visit the Cathedral of Huancayo, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying out traditional Huancayo dishes.
Return to Jauja and relax at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Seek out a place that serves 'ceviche de mero', a local fish prepared with fresh citrus. End your night with a stroll along the lagoon, taking in the serene environment illuminated by moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️Hotel per night (mid-range) | $20-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-8 |
| 🛍️Groceries (basic shopping for a week) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible base for highland exploration
- Rich agricultural culture and markets
- Relaxed pace ideal for families and solo travelers
- Limited nightlife compared to larger Peruvian cities
- Altitude can cause fatigue for first-timers
- Less English-speaking staff in remote areas
- "¿Dónde está el Mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos, por favor." - I would like a table for two, please.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Jauja
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive neoclassical facade with a tranquil interior; great for architectural shots especially during morning light.
Historic square framed by colonial buildings and the town hall; captures daily life and colorful markets.
Scenic overlook along the Mantaro River offering expansive valley and mountain backdrops for landscape photography.
Elevated vantage point near the hills above Jauja for sunset silhouettes and city panoramas.
Food in Jauja
Jauja Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potatoes with a creamy, spicy cheese sauce (ají amarillo) and often served with hard-boiled eggs and olives.
Must-Try!
A hearty chicken soup with vegetables and herbs, perfect for cool highland days.
Meat (lamb, pork, or beef) cooked underground with herbs and vegetables, often prepared for celebrations.
Quinoa cooked with vegetables and sometimes cheese, a staple in the Mantaro Valley.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can sample fresh produce, grains, cured meats, and regional snacks.
Try anticuchos (skewered meat), tamales, roasted choclo (corn), and freshly pressed juices from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple hello (hola) or good morning (buenos días); a handshake or light touch on the shoulder is common among friends.
If you encounter Quechua-speaking locals, a polite Spanish or Quechua greeting is appreciated; ask before photographing people.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities; avoid overly revealing outfits.
Ask before taking photos in markets; buy something locally if you can; barter respectfully where appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Jauja
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; small tips for taxi drivers or tour guides are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept credit/debit cards in larger shops and hotels; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler nights; occasional showers in the afternoon. Pack sun protection and a light rain jacket.
Mild temperatures with crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons; breathable layers recommended.
Cool to cold with possible frosts; clear skies often ideal for stargazing and city views.
Moderate temps and blooming flora; carry a light jacket and sunscreen for variable conditions.
Jauja at Night
Hiking in Jauja
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several short hikes with sweeping valley and mountain views; suitable for most fitness levels.
A higher-altitude trail offering panoramic vistas of the Andes and Jauja basin.
Airports
How to reach Jauja by plane.
Peru’s main international gateway; many travelers fly here to connect to regional airports or continue overland to Jauja.
Major hub in southern Peru; transfers to domestic flights or overland journeys to Jauja.
Smaller regional airport in Apurímac; possible access via road to Jauja with longer travel time.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
An important cultural group in the Mantaro Valley with traditional crafts and farming practices.
City dwellers who work in markets, services, and agriculture; bilingual Spanish-Quechua speakers common.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in urban and rural Peru; local matches and community leagues are common in Jauja.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jauja.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature potatoes, quinoa, and vegetables. Ask for meals without meat stock or lard; many restaurants can prepare vegetarian options like quinoa stews or veggie plates.