Visit the Quelccaya Glacier in Cusco: 2026 Adventure Guide

Duración Full Day

Tipo de Viaje High Mountain and Landscapes

Disponibilidad Every day

Servicio Shared and private

The Crystal Giant: Welcome to the Quelccaya Glacier

Looking for a unique experience on the roof of the world? The Quelccaya Glacier is a destination that will leave you speechless. It is considered the largest tropical glacier in the world. Located in the majestic Vilcanota Mountain Range, this place is perfect for nature lovers and high-mountain photography enthusiasts. Walking before this massive block of ice is an unforgettable experience. Not only will you admire its beauty, but you will also understand the importance of these giants in the face of climate change. It is a less-explored route that offers pure landscapes and absolute peace. Get ready to touch the sky at one of the highest points in Peru.

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The Journey to Canchis Province

04:00 a.m. – 04:30 a.m. | Hotel pickup: We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to begin the journey south. We will head to the Canchis province by tourist transport. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
07:30 a.m. | Breakfast on the way: We will stop at a local restaurant. We will enjoy an Andean breakfast to recharge our energy before the hike.

Heading to the Glacier Community

08:30 a.m. | Journey continuation: We will travel for an additional hour to the community near the glacier. This point is located at 4,600 m a.s.l. During the trip, you will see high Andean landscapes, pampas, and herds of alpacas.

Hike to the Quelccaya Glacier

09:30 a.m. | Trekking start: The hike is gradual and of moderate difficulty. The ascent takes between 1 hour and a half to 2 hours. You will observe snow-capped mountains, glacial lagoons, and native flora during the route.
Arrival at the Quelccaya Glacier (5,000 m a.s.l.): You will reach the front of this majestic block of ice. It is a unique view in Peru due to its enormous size.
Activities: You will have free time to take photographs and enjoy the glacial landscape. The guide will explain the formation of the ice and the effects of climate change.

Descent and Traditional Flavors

Descent: We will begin the return journey along the same path toward the transport. This stage will take approximately 1 hour.
02:00 p.m. | Lunch: We will head to a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional lunch. It is the perfect moment to rest after the effort at high altitude.

Return to the City of Cusco

03:00 p.m. | Return to Cusco: We will begin the journey back to the imperial city.
07:00 p.m. approx. | Arrival in Cusco: We will conclude our services by dropping you off near your hotel.

Comfortable tourist transport.
Professional bilingual guide.
Site entrance fee.
Local breakfast and lunch included.
Oxygen tank for emergencies.
Rain ponchos.

Personal expenses.

Take these items to enjoy your visit to the world’s largest tropical glacier:

Warm clothing: Use thermal layers, gloves, and hats. The climate is extremely cold.
Hiking shoes: Essential for walking on uneven and wet terrain.
Sun protection: Use sunscreen and a hat; radiation is very high at 5,000 meters.
Hydration: Carry enough mineral water for the entire trek.
Camera with extra batteries: Cold drains batteries quickly and the landscape deserves many photos.
Cash: Useful for minor purchases during stops along the route.
Trekking poles: Very helpful for the gradual walk on glacial terrain.

The difficulty is Moderate - High. Although the hike is gradual, the altitude of 5,000 meters demands a great effort from your lungs.

No, as long as you follow the guide's instructions and stay within the permitted areas. Our guides know the safe zones for taking photos.

It is the largest tropical glacier in the world and a natural laboratory for studying climate change. Its retreat is a global warning sign.

The weather is very cold. Temperatures can be near 0°C or lower, especially if it is windy. Always go well-dressed in warm clothing.

We recommend staying in Cusco for at least 3 days before this tour. Ascending to 5,000 meters without acclimatization can cause severe altitude sickness.

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