Every December 24th, Huancayo’s Plaza de la Constitución bursts into life with the Santurantikuy Festival, a bustling market where tradition and craftsmanship meet in vivid color and sound. The event spans an entire day, transforming the city center into a hive of artisans offering handmade nativity figures, textiles, ceramics, and seasonal delicacies. Engaging all senses, the festival delivers a lively atmosphere that invites visitors to explore beyond the stalls—by listening to traditional music, tasting local treats, and mingling with artisans dedicated to preserving Andean craft techniques.

Beyond the lively market, the festival presents the perfect occasion to take a brief hike up the nearby Cerro San Cristóbal, which offers sweeping views over Huancayo and the surrounding valleys. The trail covers roughly 3 kilometers with a gentle elevation gain of 350 meters, traversing through patches of native Polylepis forests where the trees stand firm against thin mountain air. The path’s earthen footing demands sturdy shoes but remains accessible for casual hikers looking to complement their cultural experience with nature’s quiet pulse.

The hill seems to challenge visitors in a deliberate, steady pulse—its slopes refusing hurry yet inviting steady engagement. Above, clouds intermittently reveal the sprawling urban grid below, while the wind whispers stories of centuries past. Timing your ascent during midday lets you witness the city’s festive buzz below, peppered with shadowed patches where the forest cools against the sun’s climb.

For practical preparation, hydration is key. The dry mountain air can be deceptively draining, so pack at least 1.5 liters of water. Weather can shift rapidly, so wear layers and bring a windbreaker. Footwear with grip helps when roots or loose soil test your footing. Arriving early to the festival unlocks the best access to artisans and avoids the afternoon crowds.

Santurantikuy means “to buy gifts” in Quechua, and the festival’s rhythm reflects this purposeful exchange—a Bay of tangible heritage and community connection. Whether your journey is to shop meaningfully, to hike into the nearby wild calm, or to blend both, the festival roots you firmly in Huancayo’s vibrant local culture and Andean spirit. This is an adventure where custom and landscape engage fully, one that demands respect and rewards with memorable immediacy.