Most travellers arrive by bus from Lima, a journey of six to eight hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Several companies operate on the route, including Cruz del Sur and Molina, with departures from Lima's Javier Prado bus terminals. The road climbs from the coast through spectacular mountain scenery before descending into the Mantaro Valley. Book in advance for weekend travel.
The Lima-Huancayo Central Railway is one of the world's most extraordinary train journeys, climbing to 4,781 metres at the La Galera pass before descending into the valley — higher than any railway in Europe. The line is operated by Ferrocarril Central Andino and runs only occasionally, typically on weekends during the dry season and for special excursions. When it is running, book well in advance; the seats sell out quickly. Check current schedules before planning around it, as operations are frequently suspended.
Huancayo also connects by bus to Huancavelica, Ayacucho, and other highland cities. The Huancavelica route, a slow but scenic journey of about four hours, follows a valley road into increasingly remote Andean country.