Hotels

Accommodations in the Central Highlands lean toward the basic. Not all properties have hot water or private baths, and almost none have (or require) air-conditioning. If you don't need pampering, and don't expect top-quality service, you'll travel easily—and cheaply. The majority of hotels have clean, modest rooms with simple Andean motifs. Bathrooms usually have showers only, and you should confirm that the hot water does function before paying for a room. Most better hotels have a restaurant or at least a dining room with some type of food service. If you want a homestay experience, ask your hotel or a local travel company, who can often hook you up with hosts in the area.

Rooms are usually available, but if you'll be traveling during the region's popular Semana Santa or Fiestas Patrias (July 28), book tours and hotels early. Also book early around the anniversary of the Battle of Ayacucho in mid-December.