Jauja Attractions

Jauja is a small but historic town about 40km / 25mi north of Huancayo. The area was inhabited by the Huancas before the Incas arrived. There are some Huaca ruins on a hillside just outside of Jauja, which can be reached on foot. Jauja was also the first Spanish capital of Peru, so designated by Francisco Pizzaro. Little from this time period remains, with the exception of some woodwork inside the church.

Nearby Jauja is the small resort town of Laguna de Paca. There is a Wednesday market here but the main attraction is the lake. Visitors can take a boat ride around the lake, stopping at the tiny island of Isla del Amor.