Huancayo is the primary city in this area of the Central Highlands. It is the capital of the Junín Department and the commercial center for the Rio Mantaro Valley. It also makes a good base for travelers wanting to explore the towns and sights in the surrounding area. Foreigners sometimes stay here for extended periods to take advantage of the
Spanish classes offered in the city. Huancayo is known for its artisans who work in wool, metals, and other mediums. The Sunday market is a good place to see or purchase these crafts.
Tourism in Huancayo was severely affected by terrorism in the 1980s and early 1990s but since the mid 1990s these problems have largely subsided.