Of the myriad archaeological ruins near Tarma, best known is Tarmatambo, 6km south. Former capital of the Taruma culture and later a major Inca administrative center, the fairly extensive remains include storehouses, palaces and an impressive, still-used aqueduct system. Ask at the tourist office about guides to take you there and to other sites: going solo, these ruins are difficult to find. Independent travelers: take a Jauja-bound bus to Tarmatambo village, on the main road below the ruins.
From Tarmatambo, a rarely-used Camino del Inca forges over the hills down to Jauja: there's basic accommodations in Tarmatambo but it's then a strenuous (but beautiful) all-day hike to Jauja (40km).
