GLACIAR DE QUELCCAYA FULL DAY
Stile:
Trekking
size group:
15 people
Age min:
18 years old
Nivel Fisico:
Moderate
Tour description
Discover the majestic Quelccaya Glacier, the largest tropical glacier on the planet, on a day trip that will connect you with the sacred nature of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. This full-day tour to the Quelccaya Glacier takes you from Cusco to the remote landscapes of Phinaya, where turquoise lagoons, herds of vicuñas, and the imposing mass of the Quelccaya ice (5,200–5,600 m a.s.l.
) create a unique Andean setting. Perfect for adventurers, families, and travelers seeking authentic experiences, this trek combines moderate hiking with the charm of Andean culture, where harmony with Pachamama (Mother Earth) is part of every step. The tour includes comfortable transfers, expert local guides (Spanish and English), and breakfast and lunch prepared with local products, all under a sustainable approach that honors the traditions and natural environment of the area.
Summary
Experience an epic and unforgettable adventure with the Quelccaya Glacier Full Day Tour! Embark on a journey to the world’s largest tropical glacier (42 km²), located in the imposing Vilcanota Mountain Range, and be amazed by otherworldly landscapes. We’ll depart from your hotel in Cusco at 3:00 am, heading towards Phinaya (4,700 m a.s.l.), a peaceful Andean village that preserves its ancestral essence. From there, we’ll take a moderate 20-minute hike to the Quelccaya viewpoint (5,200–5,600 m a.s.l.), surrounded by turquoise lagoons, vicuñas, snow-capped mountains, and the pure silence of the Andes. Our expert local guides will share the stories and legends of Apu Quelccaya, a protective spirit venerated by the high Andean communities. This full-day trek is perfect for families, beginners, and nature lovers seeking an authentic and culturally enriching experience. The tour includes comfortable transportation, an Andean breakfast in Pitumarca, and a homemade lunch in Phinaya, promoting responsible tourism and direct support for local communities, always with respect for Pachamama (Mother Earth).
At the end of the tour, we will return to Cusco between 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm, taking with you unforgettable memories of the imposing Vilcanota Mountain Range.
Itinerary
We’ll begin our journey very early, with a 3:00 am pickup from Cusco. From there, we’ll embark on an approximately 5-hour drive through the breathtaking and tranquil landscapes of the Andean highlands, heading towards the remote village of Phinaya. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a hearty Andean breakfast, perfect for acclimatizing and preparing for what lies ahead. Then, we’ll continue by vehicle for about an hour, approaching the imposing Quelccaya Glacier, recognized as the largest tropical glacier in the world. From the point where the road ends, we’ll hike for about 20 minutes to the glacier. During the hike, you’ll witness the natural beauty of the area: crystal-clear lagoons, streams, vicuñas roaming freely, and the majestic mountains of the Vilcanota range. Upon returning to Phinaya, a typical lunch of the region, prepared with local ingredients, will be waiting for us. Then, we’ll board our transport again to begin the return journey to Cusco, making a special stop at the magical Sibinacocha Lagoon, one of the largest and most beautiful in the highlands. We’ll conclude this unforgettable adventure with our arrival in the city of Cusco around 7:30 pm.
Included
- Tourist transport
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Bilingual Professional Guide
- Kit
No Included
- Income (10 PEN)
- Personal expenses
- Tip for the guide
- Travel insurance
Pack List
- Passport (Optional) : You can bring a photocopy instead of the original.
- Water (1.5 liters) : Bring enough water to stay hydrated during the hike.
- Personal snacks : Although snacks are provided, you can bring extras, such as energy bars, if you tend to eat frequently.
- Van pillow : Use it during the journey and leave it in the van while you hike.
- Trekking shoes.
- Waterproof trousers (Optional) : Useful during the rainy season (December to March).
- Extra clothes (Optional) : To change into if you get wet during the rainy season.
- Lip balm with sunscreen : Protects against the cold.
- Warm jacket : A down jacket is recommended, as it is usually cold.
- Raincoat or waterproof : It can rain even in the dry season due to climate changes.
- Woolen hat : Keeps you warm, especially on cloudy and cold days in the mountains.
- Trekking trousers : Ideal for hiking, although any suitable trousers will do.
- Rain poncho : Essential in the rainy season and useful in the dry season if there is a risk of rain.
- Sunscreen : Protects the skin from both sunburn and extreme cold.
- Reusable water bottle or Camelback : To reduce plastic use and stay hydrated.
- Sunglasses : They protect your eyes from the intense sunlight and the glare on the snow.
- Extra money : Cash to buy snacks, local food, or to tip for photos with alpacas.
- Thick socks : They keep your feet warm in the cold.
- Buff or neck gaiter : Protects the neck and face, especially in winter.
- Gloves : They keep your hands warm in cold and windy conditions.
- Basic medications : Bring painkillers like ibuprofen and altitude sickness pills like Diamox.
- Portable charger : Keeps your phone charged, as batteries drain faster in the cold.
- Phone or camera : To capture unforgettable memories of your trip.
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