Getting Around, Huancayo Travel, Transport and Car Rental

(Huancayo, Junin, Peru)

The bus terminals within Huancayo are a little spread out, but usually quite easy to find and relatively close to the city centre. Much of the bus transport offered in Huancayo does change per season, and in general, those intending to travel for a long distance are strongly advised to purchase the best seat possible, to ensure at least some level of comfort.

Throughout the day, 'colectivos' (private-licence taxis) travel all around central Huancayo, often transporting passengers northwards, to Jauja. If you are planning to travel further afield, then trains are available, as well as a busy airport.

Francisco Carle Airport (JAU) / Arriving by Air

Huancayo is lucky enough to be served by its very own airport, named the Francisco Carle Airport. This regional air facility may be on the small side, but is offers an extremely convenient way to travel to a number of Peruvian cities, such as Lima. However, most people tend to use the considerably larger Jorge Chávez International Airport in Callao, next to Lima, which is within close proximity and actually Peru's number one international and domestic airport, with annual passenger levels now approaching eight million.

Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) Guide

Car Rental

Many people arriving in Huancayo find that the hazardous driving conditions and stories of the frequent accidents are understandably a little off-putting when it comes to renting a car. Those who are feeling brave enough for an adventure on the roads will need to be 25 or more, and bring both a valid passport and driving licence. Alternatively, a very noteworthy alternative is to simply hire your very own taxi for the day - or longer.

Book your Lima Car Rental here.

Buses and Coaches

Bus transport in Huancayo is especially popular with backpackers, who choose to travel to destinations such as Ayacucho, Cerro de Pasco, Concepcion, Huancavelica, Huanuco, Jauja, La Merced, Lima, Pucallpa, Satipo, Tarma and also Tingo Maria. Local bus transport travels to a number of neighbouring villages around Huancayo, collecting passengers from the indicated bus stops at various intersections around the city.

Trains

There are no less than two separate train stations to be found in Huancayo, the Central Train Station is to the east of the Plaza de la Constitucion, while the Chilca Train Station lies on the southerly outskirts of the city centre. The Ferrocarril Central Andino is a very popular tourist train, which transports passengers on a round trip to Lima, passing through the La Galera - the second-highest train station in existence. Therefore, those travelling onboard the Huancayo's famous Ferrocarril Central Andino can be assured of some excellent views and many very memorable experiences. From the Chilca Train Station, passengers can travel to Huancavelica in around five hours, or even faster is you are able to use the electric train service, which is only available on Sundays and Mondays.

Taxis

Taxi transport serves the city of Huancayo well and local drivers are usually happy to travel as far afield as Huancavelica. Colectivos are the main type of taxi operating here and are both reliable and very inexpensive. However, if you are in any doubt, do try to agree a fare before leaving.