Sunday, July 6th, 2003- Day 138
Arrived in Huancayo at about 7.00am. Felt like a zombie as usual. Three night buses over the last four night have left their mark. At the one bed I did see was in Huraz (this was the one with the blood stains on the walls and the light switch). When you tuned off the floursesent light it flickered for about 15 minutes with an eerie glow. It was some dump but self inflicted. Anyway the it is supposed to be the biggest market in Peru today (every Sunday). As I had been in this town before and knew where I was, I could walk into the city centre (well, I waited about 25 minutes at the station for sunrise). The Lonely Planet (I hate them) book says three places offer buses to Huancavelica. After 20 minutes carrying my 20 kg backpack and my 10 kilo front pack, I found that no such companies exist. I finally found a company called “Ticllas” that offers trips every 2 hours. I was dead on my feet and bought the ticket for 10 Soles (2.60 EURO). It was a six hour journey. Anyway I left my bag there (with a little fear as it was a busy and unorganized place with no storage facilities) and went to the market. People were just bringing their goods at this stage and it was nice to see them setting up.
I walked around for a while and went on the net. When I finally went back to the market I was under whelmed. It was all done on one large street – Calle Huancavelica. It was 90% clothes with a small section offering tourist weavings. I only spent 1 hour there as it was boring. I felt I had seen bigger (Pujilli, Huraz) and lots of better ones. I was disappointed. Anyway it was time to go. My bus was at 2.00pm.
I caught the bus which was extremely crowded. Easily, there were as many people standing as seated. It was pretty mad. I don’t know why they don’t buy tickets earlier. They just turn up and take the next bus. Some people were standing for the six hours as we left collecting people on the road. The scenery was great as we traveled through the pampas, it was very rural with no towns. Every inch of land was been tilled but I did not see any machinery. It was a patch work of colour and great intensive labour. It was Sunday so a lot of people in the villages were getting drunk and dancing. The road was unpaved most if the way but I enjoyed my journey. Still if I see another bus.
It was dark when I got to town (8.00pm) and as I had no map it took me a while to check if a bus was going to Pisco tomorrow and find a place to stay. Finally booked into Hostal Camacho”. This was a great place. It looks small from outside, but they must have 50 rooms inside. It was 13 Soles (3.39 EURO) with bath, 8 without. I took the dearer option. When I saw the room I nearly cried with joy. A room with a window, desk, bath, clean sheets, nice big pillow and bright room with tourism pictures. I kissed the pillow.
I meant to go and eat around 10.00pm but after a shower I went to bed for five minutes and did not wake until 10.00am the next day.
Arrived Tujillo on the 1st of July – after a night Bus
Arrived Huraz on the 3rd of July – after a night Bus
Arrived Lima on the 5th of July – after a night Bus
Arrived Huancayo on the 6th of July – after a night Bus
As you can see, I need to see more real beds.
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Click on the picture to see it in its original size
Huancayo – Peru – Market Day (06-07-2003)
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Click on the picture to see it in it´s original size
Huancayo – Peru – Market Day (06-07-2003)
Monday, July 7th, 2003- Day 139
The department of Huancavelica is in the midst of the south central Sierra region of the country. It presents a rough topography that places the department between highlands and snow-capped mountain peaks, surrounded by deserted punas, solitary but lovely lagoons. The immense natural wealth within its mountains makes it a very important mining region. It limits with Lima, Ica, Junin and Ayacucho.
The capital is the city of Huancavelica. Other important cities are, Catrovirreyna, Tayacaja, Acobamba and Angaraes. Due to its location, the climate is dry but with low temperatures.
The towns attractions can be found HERE. This is a beautiful town. Afticketying my ricket to Pisco (only one company operaes this route) for 25 Soles (6.50 EURO) – 12 hour trip, I wandered the town. Its traditional architecture, gorgeous landscapes, and the hospitality of the local residents make this corner of the Andes makes it a great place to kick back and relax for a few days.
Taken from Rumbos.
“Huancavelica flourished architecturally during its mercury-mining heyday. Proof of this are its beautiful churches and mansions. The cathedral, for example, is the city’s most outstanding building, the most prominent features being its two white spires and red stone entrance. The interior is lined with a wonderful collection of paintings attributed to indigenous artists and the altar is made of ornately carved cedar dressed with gold leaf.
Close to the cathedral is the Church of San Sebastion, built in 1662. The church is home to the popular image of the Nino de Lachoq, who, according to legend, appeared to the Peruvian troops warning them of the imminent arrival of the Chileans, their foes during the War of the Pacific (1879-1883).
The countryside surrounding the city is also rich in beautiful landscapes. One of the most popular sites are the San Christopher hot springs, located only a few minutes away from the city.”
I wish I had more time to spend here. The town is great. I had spent a long time in the cities trying to find items to use when I was sending stuff home from Laz Paz. I found everything i needed with 20 minutes here (tape, paper, plastic bags, markers, twine etc.) for half the price for other places. Great food, many NET cafes, great churches, great surrounding scenery. If I had not needed to update this blog, I would have gone walking today out to the springs or taken a taxi to the lake. Can not recommend this place enought for a visit. My bus is at 6.00pm.
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Click on the picture to see it in it´s original size
Huancavelica – Peru (07-07-2003)
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Click on the picture to see it in it´s original size
Huancavelica – Peru (07-07-2003)