Behind the Cordillera Blanca mountain range one can find the often overlooked and beautiful Konchukos valley. Boasting spectacular views and a rugged landscape, it is a perfect retreat for those looking for 'off the beaten path' tranquility. For all its natural beauty it is a landscape that has been worked for millennia. Farmers' fields line the mountains slopes and an idyllic atmosphere welcomes the visitor. Running parallel and west of the valley is the Huascaran National Park, with two trekking trails starting from within the valley. If you are inclined to take a trek, the Quebrada Carhuascancha route is one that comes especially recommended, passing eleven lakes including Ichicopotrero, Jatunpotrero, Millpo and Llanganuco amongst others.
Dark green and vivid blue waters against black stone walls and white peaks provide an awesome vista for the mind to fathom whilst within the park such ecological treats as the Polylepis forests and Puya raimondii bromeliads provide a chance to see some of the rarest, most tenacious and spectacular organisms in the plant world. The Inka Nani (Inca road), is amongst the best preserved stretches of roadway in the Inca empire, and was once a central communication route in its administration. Indeed considering the unspoiled nature of the landscape it is possible to conjure up an image of a runner carrying orders from the Inca to the north or the coast, or to imagine troop movements in their march to war. However more important, inspiring and ancient is the temple of Chavin de Huantar which is located beside the town which bears its name. For those wishing to trace the path of Andean culture, this impressive site provides the perfect starting point for an historic odyssey. Yet that is but a taste of what Konchukos has to offer, for it is at once a place for relaxation, for breathing crystal clear air and for removing the stresses and tensions of daily life.
The Konchukos valley is accessed by road. After turning right and north-east at Catac a beautiful panorama opens up. Lake Querococha on the left at 3,960m provides a wonderful resting point before continuing onwards to the grand height of 4,178m where the Kawish tunnel, and entrance into the Konchukos valley, is located. After the steep ascent, on twisting, turning roads to reach the tunnel, a steep descent of twisting turning roads leads down into the charming valley. Machac is the first village to appear, then Chavin, and then San Marcos. The Rio Mosna flows through the valley, a headwater river of the Rio Marañon that over 2,000 km later meets the Amazon at Iquitos.
