Car

The Central Highlands have some of the country's most scenic driving routes, and paved roads link Lima and Huánuco to the north and Huancayo to the south. It's five hours from the capital to the crossroads at La Oroya, from which a gorgeous Andean panorama stretches in three directions: north toward Huánuco, east toward Tarma, and south to Huancayo. Most sights around Huancayo in the Valle del Mantaro are accessible by car. You should travel the rugged road from Huancayo to Ayacucho in a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and be sure to bring emergency supplies for the 12-hour trip. Except for the highway, there are mostly dirt roads in this region, so be prepared. There is no place to rent a car in this region.