About this experience
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Quelccaya Ice Cap, the largest tropical glacier on Earth, on this full-day tour from Cusco. This small-group experience is ideal for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the Andes, combining glacier hiking, high-altitude lagoons, and authentic cultural encounters.
Travel through the southern Andes at sunrise, passing remote mountain scenery and traditional communities. Enjoy a locally prepared breakfast before a gradual scenic hike to the glacier, with insights into glacier formation, Andean ecosystems, and climate change.
At the glacier, enjoy time to explore, take photos, and experience this unique high-mountain environment, without the rush of standard tours. After the hike, enjoy a traditional Andean lunch before returning to Cusco.
Why travelers choose this experience:
Full-day glacier hike from Cusco
Scenic Andean route with lagoons
Time at the glacier for photos
Breakfast and lunch included
Small-group experience
At a glance
- Duration: 13 hr–15 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 13 hr–15 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
- Entrance fee to Quelccaya Ice Cap
- Assistance with photography
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Professional bilingual mountain guide
- Local breakfast and Andean lunch
- Round-trip transportation from Cusco
Not included
- Personal expenses
- Tips for the driver and guide (optional)
Itinerary and highlights
Your experience begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Travel through the southern Andes, enjoying panoramic views and a beautiful sunrise over the mountain range as you leave the city behind.
High-Andean Community – Breakfast Experience
Arrive at a traditional Andean community where you will enjoy a freshly prepared local breakfast. This stop also offers a chance to observe rural life and connect with the cultural landscape of the region.
Andean Route & High-Altitude Lagoons – Scenic Drive
Continue by vehicle along a remote Andean route, passing stunning high-altitude lagoons and vast mountain scenery. This stretch offers excellent opportunities for landscape photography and appreciation of untouched nature.
Before beginning the hike, your professional mountain guide will provide a safety briefing and altitude adaptation recommendations. Start a gradual and scenic hike toward the glacier.
Quelccaya Glacier – Exploration & Interpretation
Reach the Quelccaya Ice Cap, the largest tropical glacier in the world. Enjoy extended time at the glacier front to explore, take photos, and learn about its formation, environmental significance, and role in climate systems.
Return Hike & Andean Lunch
Descend along the same scenic route and enjoy a traditional Andean lunch. Take time to relax and reflect on the experience surrounded by mountain landscapes.
Return to Cusco
After lunch, begin the return journey to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon after a full day of high-altitude exploration.
Meeting and pickup information
- Pickup is available from hotels located in Cusco Historic Center and nearby areas. Please provide your hotel name and exact address at the time of booking. If your accommodation is outside the pickup zone, we will arrange a convenient meeting point in central Cusco. Please be ready in your hotel lobby in advance, as pickups operate within a coordinated route and delays cannot be accommodated.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Andean Trekking Peru
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- 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
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
If your accommodation is outside the pickup zone, we will arrange a convenient meeting point in central Cusco.
Please be ready in your hotel lobby in advance, as pickups operate within a coordinated route and delays cannot be accommodated.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
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