Valleys and Canyons: Mantaro Valley
It is located in Junín department, in Peru’s central Andean zone, at about 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) above sea level. After travelling by the central highway from Lima and crossing the high mountains of the Andes, the green valley presents a real contrast, boasting a mountain setting dominated by the Mantaro River, farm land, eucalyptus fields and a blue sky.
During the Spanish conquest the first capital of Peru, named Jauja, was founded in the region, but due to its distance from the ocean, the political, social and economic center of the Viceroyalty was later moved to Lima.
The Mantaro Valley, both in its low and high areas, contains an immense archaeological wealth that reflects the importance of these populated areas during the pre-Inca and Inca periods. There’s a wide variety of accommodation available. Visitors are sure to enjoy a pleasant outdoor experience including activities like hiking, motor sports and mountain biking.
Minimum visiting time: 1 day
