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Quelccaya Glacier
Nature

Quelccaya Glacier

Full Day
challenging
Max 15 people

Visit the Quelccaya Glacier, the largest tropical glacier in the world, with extensive ice fields and high Andean lagoons in the Vilcanota mountain range.

Description

The Quelccaya Glacier, also known as Suyupatina, is the world's largest tropical glacier and one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Vilcanota mountain range. Its high-altitude setting offers unique views of vast ice fields, high-altitude lakes, and remote, largely unexplored landscapes, ideal for travelers seeking pristine nature.

Itinerary

1
Day 1

Cusco - Phinaya - Quelccaya Glacier - Cusco

18 hours approximately 4,500 - 5,600 masl 4 km approximately (hike)

The tour begins with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at a pre-arranged time. An early morning departure is recommended due to the distance to the destination. Aboard a tourist vehicle, we will travel south through the region, passing through high Andean villages and spectacular landscapes of the Altiplano.

During the journey, we will make technical stops as needed. Upon reaching the Phinaya area, we will continue by vehicle to the closest permitted point, from where a short, gradual hike to the glacier begins.

In the Quelccaya area, passengers will have free time to observe the glacier, appreciate the ice formations and meltwater lagoons, and take photographs of the natural surroundings.

After the visit, we will begin our return to Cusco, arriving in the evening, depending on the progress of the tour and road conditions.

Meals: Not included

Highlights

World's largest tropical glacier

5,600 masl

Meltwater lagoons

Remote destination

Includes

  • Round-trip tourist transportation
  • Professional driver
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco

Not Included

  • Tour guide
  • Meals
  • Entrance fees or access tickets
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips

Tour Information

Meeting Point

Hotel del cliente

Departure

03:00

Return

21:00

Minimum Age

12 years

Pickup Points

Hotel del cliente en Cusco

03:00

Cusco Centro Histórico

Recogemos en la puerta de su hotel

Recommendations

  • • Bring thermal and windproof clothing
  • • Wear trekking shoes
  • • Bring hat, gloves, and sunscreen
  • • Bring water and personal snacks
  • • Bring cash for entrance fees and personal expenses
  • • Acclimatize at least 3 days in Cusco before

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include a tour guide?
No, the tour only includes tourist transportation with a professional driver. If you want a guide, you can hire one for an additional cost.
Why is the Quelccaya Glacier special?
It is the largest tropical glacier in the world, located in the Vilcanota mountain range. It is a remote and unexplored destination that offers unique views of ice fields and meltwater lagoons.
How long is the trip from Cusco?
The one-way trip is approximately 5 hours due to the distance and road conditions. That's why an early departure (3:00 AM) is recommended.
What fitness level is needed?
A moderate-high fitness level is required. Although the hike is short, the extreme altitude (up to 5,600 masl) makes it demanding. It's essential to be very well acclimatized, at least 3 days in Cusco.
What should I bring for the tour?
Thermal and windproof clothing (it's very cold), trekking shoes, hat, gloves, sunscreen, water, snacks, and cash.
What is the best time to visit?
The best time is from April to October (dry season). During the rainy season, access can be difficult and weather conditions unfavorable.

From

$280 USD

Sedan (1-3 passengers)

2

Recommended vehicle

Sedan

$280 USD

Up to 3 passengers

Book Now Ask via WhatsApp

Includes

  • Round-trip tourist transportation
  • Professional driver
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco

Questions? +51 963 843 599

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