Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Torre Torre
The eroded geological formations known as Torre Torre (
torre
means 'tower' and some
of the outcrops here are thus shaped) lie 2km further up in the hills beyond Cerro de la
Libertad. There is a sign and a fairly obvious path. To make a longer route, continue along
the ridge keeping Huancayo to your left (west). You'll eventually come to another rock
formation, known as Corona del Fraile (crown of the monk, or monk's head), a round-
topped rock surrounded by a crown of eucalyptus trees, below which are several water-
falls. You can return to Huancayo from this end of the ridge. While safe enough during
daylight hours, look out for packs of stray dogs, particularly in the houses below Torre
Torre.
HIKING
Festivals & Events
There are hundreds of fiestas in Huancayo and surrounding villages - supposedly almost
every day somewhere in the Río Mantaro valley. Ask at the tourist office.
TRADITIONAL DANCE
Año Nuevo
(January 1-6)
New Year festivities in Huancayo are some of Peru's most unusual. Dances
performed include the
huaconada,
in which revelers dress up to look like quirky old men
with big noses, representing village elders who, in times past, would drop by the houses of
lazy or mischief-making villagers and whip them into behaving for the coming year.
Plenty of butt-whipping takes place. Mito, an hour north of Huancayo, also has vivid cel-
ebrations.
Semana Santa
(Holy Week)
One of the biggest events in Huancayo, with big religious processions at-
tracting people from all over Peru at Easter.
RELIGIOUS
Fiestas Patrias
(July 28 & 29)
Peru's Independence Days are celebrated by processions by the military
and schools. Hotels fill up and raise their prices during these times.
FESTIVAL
Sleeping
Casa de la Abuela $
HOSTEL
