Jauja

A charming colonial town and Peru's first capital, situated in a high-altitude valley with stunning mountain views and rich historical significance. The town features well-preserved Spanish architecture, a pleasant plaza, and authentic local culture with fewer tourists than larger cities.

Things to do

• Plaza de Armas — Stroll through Jauja's central plaza lined with colonial arcades, the Cathedral, and local shops where you can observe daily life and watch locals gather.
• Cathedral of Jauja — Visit this impressive 16th-century colonial church featuring Spanish architectural details and religious artwork that reflects the town's historical importance as Peru's first capital.
• Laguna de Paca — Hike to this scenic high-altitude lake just outside town where you can enjoy trout fishing, picnicking, and views of the surrounding Andean peaks.
• Ethnographic Museum — Explore local artifacts, traditional textiles, and historical exhibits that showcase Jauja's role as Peru's first Spanish capital and its indigenous heritage.
• Tarjea viewpoint hike — Trek up to this hillside viewpoint overlooking the entire Jauja valley and surrounding mountains, best visited in early morning for clear views.
• Local markets — Wander through the vibrant markets near the plaza where vendors sell fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional Andean goods directly from farmers and artisans.

Food to try

• Trucha a la Mantequilla — Fresh trout from Laguna de Paca prepared simply with butter and served at local restaurants, showcasing the region's famous freshwater fish.
• Causa Jaujina — A local variation of Peru's classic causa made with yellow potatoes, lime, and local herbs, often filled with local cheese and served as an appetizer.
• Caldo de Papa — A warming Andean potato and vegetable soup flavored with local herbs and sometimes meat, perfect for the cool mountain climate.
• Queso de Jauja — The region's traditional fresh and aged cheeses made from local dairy, known for their distinctive flavor and sold in markets throughout town.
• Humita — A traditional corn-based dish made with fresh corn, cheese, and wrapped in corn husks, representing authentic Andean cuisine of the highlands.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect local religious observances — Jauja maintains strong Catholic traditions with festivals and church events central to community life, so dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful during celebrations.
• Learn basic Spanish — English is rarely spoken in Jauja compared to major tourist destinations, so basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your interactions with locals and access to authentic experiences.
• Acclimatize to altitude — Jauja sits at approximately 3,400 meters elevation, so arrive a day early, drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals initially, and move slowly to adjust to the thin mountain air.
• Embrace slower pace — Unlike Peru's major tourist centers, Jauja operates on a relaxed local schedule with many businesses closing for long lunch hours and limited activity in evenings, so plan accordingly.