Located  at 3,676 m.a.s.l.it has a cold and rainy climate. The average annual maximum temperature is 16°C (61ºF) and the minimum is 2°C (36ºF). The rainy season starts in November and ends in April.

The department of Huancavelica features one of the roughest terrains in the country, formed by valleys, deep gorges, towering mountains, sinuous roads, and mesas.

These highlands were inhabited by the Waris and later by the warring Chancas. The area was finally incorporated into the Inca Empire and became a military center. Following that period, the Spanish discovered silver and mercury mines, a reason for establishing themselves there. Currently, the city preserves its mansions and magnificent Colonial churches.