Peru: Huascaran National Park

Huascarán National Park is one of Peru’s largest and spectacular national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It encompasses most of the Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range in the world. It contains Mount Huascaran (6,768 m / 22,205 ft), Peru’s highest peak, and over 600 glaciers and nearly 300 stunning high-altitude lagoons. Driving from Huaraz to Chavin, you go through the southern portion of the national park over the Cordillera Blanca and the continental divide. One of the most spectacular features en route is Laguna Querococha, located at about 4,200 m (13,780 ft) its water reflecting the towering, snow-capped peaks of Nevado Pucaraju and Nevado Yanamarey. Further up is the highest point of the road – the Cahuish Tunnel situated at approximately 4,516 m (14,816 ft) and connected two stunning alpine valleys – Callejón de Huaylas and the Callejón de los Conchucos. Lots of interesting flora and birdlife along the way as well!