Quilqi Hirka Mountains

The central Peruvian Andes rise around Tarma and the northern Mantaro valley in a succession of high ridges and steep valleys. Snow and sparse vegetation cover the highest ground, while streams descend towards more sheltered settlements below. The Cordillera Central and neighbouring ranges divide the agricultural valleys from the eastern slopes. Across this difficult landscape, highland paths connected communities and Inca centres such as Tarmatambo and Hatun Xauxa.