High Train

The Central Highlands are one of the country's most scenic areas, and tracks cut through the mountains and plains all the way from Lima to Huancavelica.

Unfortunately, parts of the line often aren't running, so check first at the station. These are old cars, so don't expect plush seats, clean windows, or first-class service. The most reliable section is from Huancayo to Huancavelica, a spectacular journey that's worth the discomfort.

Huancayo has two train stations, one in the town center serving Lima and one in the Chilca suburb serving Huancavelica. With the help of tour operators such as Incas del Peru that have designed weekend train packages from Lima, the train is now running regularly again. One of the most spectacular journeys in South America is the 335-km (207-mi) train route that twists through the Andes at an elevation of 4,782 meters (15,685 feet). The engine chugs its way up a slim thread of rails that hugs the slopes, speeding over 59 bridges, around endless hairpin curves, and through 66 tunnels—including the 1,175-meter- (3,854-foot-) long Galera Tunnel, which, at an altitude of 4,758 meters (15,606 feet) is the world's highest railway. A second uniquely amazing journey is from Tarma to Chanchamayo, on which the road descends almost 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) from mountains into the jungle in less than 70 km (43 mi).

The trips are about two weekends a month and depart on Thursday or Friday at 7 am and return Sunday at 6 pm. Snacks and lunch are included in the price (S/240 round-trip). You can request oxygen if you get short of breath over the high passes.

The Huancavelica Tren Expreso departs from Huancayo Monday through Saturday at 6:30 am and Sunday at 2 pm (S/12, 4 ½ hours). Purchase advance tickets at the station. Return trains depart from Estación Huancavelica on Avenida Leguía (067/752-898) at 6:30 am Monday through Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm.