About this experience
The Quelccaya glacier is unique for being the largest tropical glacier in the world, for its great climatic and scientific importance, as it preserves information from thousands of years ago, and for being a vital source of water for the high Andean communities, in addition to offering an imposing and little-explored natural landscape.
At a glance
- Duration: 13 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 13 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- Profesional Guide
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Transportation
Not included
- Extra expenses
- Entrance
Itinerary and highlights
We will pick you up from your hotel (preferably within the historic center) at a specified time, and we will head towards Phinaya for a journey of approximately 5 hours, reaching an altitude of 4,700 meters above sea level, passing through high-altitude landscapes.
In this community, we will receive our nutritious breakfast, with a 1-hour break. After breakfast, we will travel for approximately 45 minutes by vehicle to reach the foothills of the Quelcaya Glacier. From there, we will embark on a 30-minute hike to the glacier. Along the way, you will be able to observe lagoons, streams, vicuñas, and the imposing mountains of the Vilcanota mountain range. (Please note that horses are not available.)
We will explore the Glacier's surroundings for 50 minutes, reaching an altitude of over 5,600 meters above sea level. You will have time to take photographs and contemplate this impressive natural environment.
After the glacier visit, we will return to the community of Phinaya for a delicious local lunch. Afterwards, we will begin our return journey to Cusco, making a special stop at the magical Sibinacocha Lagoon so you can enjoy the view of this beautiful place and make any purchases you wish.
At approximately 4:00 pm we will begin our return trip to the city of Cusco.
The tour will end with our arrival in Cusco at approximately 9:00 pm, dropping you off one block from the Plaza de Armas for your convenience.
Meeting and pickup information
- The guide will contact you via the WhatsApp number you provided in your booking 5 minutes before your pickup. Your guide will also be wearing a Chullos Travel agency jacket.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Amaru Explorer Peru
Accessibility and practical details
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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