Quelccaya Glacier Expedition
Cusco's Frozen Gem: A Journey to the Sacred Quelccaya Glacier
High in the southern part of Cusco, a true secret lies hidden among the mountains: the Quelccaya Glacier the largest tropical glacier on the entire planet! If you’re a nature and adventure lover, this 2 day trip is perfect for you.
Imagine hiking at an altitude of 5,600 meters, breathing in the purest air of the Andes, and connecting with a landscape that seems otherworldly. On this route, you’ll discover crystal-clear lakes that reflect the sky like perfect mirrors, and you’ll see beautiful vicuñas running free in their natural habitat. It’s a magical experience the kind that changes your life and that you’ll remember forever. The ice giant awaits you for an unforgettable adventure!
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco – Pitumarca – Sibinacocha Lagoon – Phinaya Valley
Our trip to the Quelccaya Glacier begins early in the morning, as we set out from the city of Cusco full of energy. Our first stop will be in the charming little town of Pitumarca, where we’ll treat you to a delicious Andean breakfast made with the freshest local ingredients. With our batteries recharged, we’ll continue on to the breathtaking Sibinacocha Lake; get ready, because its high-altitude landscapes and brilliant turquoise waters will leave you speechless.
Afterward, we’ll head to the beautiful Phinaya Valley, a magical spot where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch with a spectacular panoramic view of the giant Quelccaya the largest tropical glacier on the entire planet! In the afternoon, we’ll take a gentle hike of about an hour to a natural viewpoint. From there, you’ll see the vast expanse of eternal ice spread out before you the perfect moment to take incredible photos.
To round out this perfect day, we’ll enjoy a warm dinner at our campsite. You’ll sleep under a sky completely filled with stars, surrounded by a peace that only the mountains can offer. A truly authentic experience in the heart of the Andes!
Day 2: Hike to Quelccaya Glacier – Return to Cusco
Our second day begins early, at 5:30 a.m., with a hearty Andean breakfast that will give us all the energy we need to set out to see the majestic Quelccaya Glacier. As we hike, the landscape will keep surprising us: we’ll pass by crystal-clear lagoons, sparkling streams, snow capped peaks, and beautiful herds of vicuñas running free across the puna.
And then we’ll reach the giant standing before the glacier is an experience that cannot be described in words. We’ll explore its mind blowing ice formations and natural caves, where pure white blends with magical blue glimmers. Without a doubt, this is the most exciting and photogenic moment of the entire adventure.
After taking incredible photos, we’ll enjoy a well deserved lunch with the best view in the world, right in front of the glacier. With our hearts full of joy, we’ll begin our return to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 p.m. You’ll return to your lodging with your backpack full of memories, unique landscapes, and the satisfaction of having conquered the eternal ice.
SERVICE DETAILS
What is Included?
- Private, comfortable, and safe tour transportation (Cusco – Quelccaya – Cusco).
- A bilingual (Spanish and English) high-mountain guide to accompany you on the route.
- Full meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner featuring local flavors.
- Camping gear (tents and mountain sleeping pads).
- Entrance fee to the Quelccaya Glacier.
- Safety kit: First-aid kit and medical oxygen for emergencies.
- Personalized assistance and constant guidance from our staff.
- Pre-trip briefing to provide you with information and the best recommendations for our tour.
Not Included
- Sleeping bag essential for staying nice and warm while you sleep.
- Trekking poles will be your best allies for maintaining a good pace on the hike.
- Additional drinks and snacks.
- Tips are entirely voluntary as a token of appreciation.
- Clothing to withstand the cold remember that we’ll be visiting the eternal ice (a warm jacket, gloves, a beanie, and hiking shoes to keep your feet comfortable).
- Personal expenses bring some cash for the trip.
TRAVELER GUIDE
Packing List
Travel Tips
- The key is acclimatization: We recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before starting the tour. Your body needs this time to adjust to the altitude and avoid any setbacks.
- Appropriate clothing: Temperatures can drop as low as -5 °C at night. Don’t forget to pack thermal underwear, a good waterproof jacket, gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots, preferably waterproof ones. The trail is uneven, and your feet will appreciate the support.
- Hydration and energy: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. A great tip is to bring coca or muña candies—they’re perfect for warding off altitude sickness.
- Physical Fitness: We’ll be hiking at an altitude of over 5,000 meters, so it’s important to be in good physical condition.
- Environmental Responsibility: Don’t leave trash behind, take care of the local wildlife, and respect the rules of the protected natural area.
RATES & BOOKING
If you would like to know the latest price for this tour, please contact us. Our team will provide the rates and availability for your preferred travel dates.
Have questions? Email us at info@perutopexpeditions.com or contact us via WhatsApp for assistance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Quelccaya Glacier is the largest tropical glacier in the world. It is the ultimate destination for those seeking extreme adventure, Andean mysticism, and breathtaking scenery.
This is a high difficulty trek. It reaches altitudes above 5,000 meters above sea level, and the weather is freezing. To enjoy the trek to the fullest, it’s extremely important that you’re in excellent physical condition, spend a few days in Cusco to acclimate beforehand, and bring appropriate gear for the cold.
Yes. Part of the experience includes a hike along the edge of the glacier. For safety reasons, this is always done with a high-mountain guide, and depending on the ice conditions, it may require the use of crampons (which we provide). It’s a unique opportunity to touch the ice.
The best time to visit the ice giant is during the dry season (May through October). During these months, the Andes will treat you to clear, beautiful blue skies and a solid trail for safe hiking. For your safety and comfort, we recommend avoiding the rainy months (December through March), as snowstorms and fog obscure the scenery and make the trail very challenging.
Since this is a remote area, we’ll be staying in high-mountain camps or with local families (homestays) in the beautiful community of Phinaya. It’s a rustic, comfortable, and truly authentic experience that will help you disconnect from your daily routine and reconnect with nature in its purest form.
