Quelccaya Glacier Tour 1 Day
5,650 m / 18,536 fee
Not included
Small group
Daily departures
TRIP DESCRIPTION
There is a side of Cusco that does not appear in seven-day itineraries or on lists of “must-see places”: the one that protects the largest tropical glacier on the planet. The Quelccaya Ice Cap stretches across more than 40 square kilometers at an altitude of 5,000 meters, with lagoons, wetlands where alpacas graze, and ice walls that glaciologists study to understand the climate of the last five hundred years.
This full-day tour takes you to that high Andean corner that most travelers passing through Cusco never get to know: Quechua communities, puna ecosystems, and a level of silence that no longer exists in the region’s most visited destinations. If you are looking for something beyond the usual route, Quelccaya is an option worth considering.
PROGRAM SUMMARY
Cusco – Quelccaya Mountain Range – Glacier – Cusco
Pick-up from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. and transfer by private transportation to the south of Cusco. Breakfast en route in a puna village. Arrival at the starting point and hike of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to the viewpoint facing the glacier. Free time for photos and rest. Descent, lunch at a local restaurant, and return to Cusco with an approximate arrival at 7:00 p.m.
Quelccaya Glacier Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco + High Andean Puna + Qelccaya Glacier + Quelccaya Mountain Range + Cusco
- We will pick you up from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. to begin the transfer by private transportation to the south of the Cusco region.
- En route, we will make a stop in a puna village to have breakfast with local ingredients before continuing toward the Qelccaya Mountain Range.
- During the journey, we will pass through Quechua communities and make stops to observe Andean wildlife: alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas.
- From the starting point, we will begin the guided hike of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes along Andean trails at more than 4,800 m.a.s.l., among wetlands and ichu grasslands.
- Upon arriving at the viewpoint, you will have free time in front of the glacier for photos and rest. The guide will explain the geological history of the area and its ecological importance.
- We will begin the descent along an alternative route until reaching the transportation. We will make a stop for lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine.
- Return to the city of Cusco with an approximate arrival between 6:30 and 7:00 p.m., with direct transfer to your hotel. Meals: Breakfast and lunch. Difficulty: Moderate (requires good physical condition).
INCLUDES - NOT INCLUDED - DETAILS
Includes
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English) with high-mountain experience.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
- Permanent assistance throughout the entire experience.
- Full Andean breakfast en route.
- Full typical lunch at a local restaurant.
- Coca tea and coca leaves for acclimatization.
- Private round-trip tourist transportation (Cusco – Qelccaya – Cusco) with heating.
- Door-to-door pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Cusco.
Not Included
- Entrance fee to the Qelccaya Mountain Range area (local payment at the access point).
- Trekking poles (we recommend bringing your own or renting them in advance).
- Additional snacks or drinks beyond those included.
- Personal expenses, souvenirs, or purchases in communities.
- Tips for the guide and driver (optional, at your discretion).
- Personal travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Dinner.
What to Bring?
- Thermal base layer (merino wool or synthetic first layer).
- Fleece or down jacket as a mid-layer.
- Windbreaker or waterproof jacket as an outer layer.
- Comfortable and durable trekking pants.
- Trekking shoes or boots with non-slip soles (essential).
- Hat, gloves, and scarf or thermal neck warmer.
Recommendations for Your Trip
- Acclimate for at least 2 days in Cusco before taking this tour.
- Stay well hydrated from the day before and throughout the entire tour.
- Walk at a slow and steady pace; do not push yourself at any time.
- Have a good breakfast, but avoid heavy or greasy meals the night before.
- Inform the guide about any medical condition, allergies, or medications.
- This tour is not recommended for people with heart problems, serious respiratory conditions, or pregnant women.
- Respect the signs and do not leave the marked trails.
- Do not leave trash or waste along the route.
- Respect wildlife: do not feed or chase the animals.
Qelccaya Glacier Tour Price
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QUELCCAYA GLACIER TOUR FROM CUSCO Price Per Person - From 2 people |
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GROUP SERVICE
Quelccaya Glacier from Cusco
Shared Service
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US$ 79.00 |
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PRIVATE SERVICE
Quelccaya Glacier from Cusco
From 2 people
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US$ 169.00 |
Special Rates
- 1 person: Personalized quote
- Groups of 3+ people: Group discount
- Minors: Special discount
