Overview
Experience an epic adventure with the Quelccaya Glacier Full Day Tour from Cusco! This physically demanding tour will take you to discover the largest tropical glacier in the world, located in the breathtaking Vilcanota Mountain Range. It is an ideal experience for adventurous travelers seeking unique landscapes, close contact with nature, and spectacular views of snow-covered peaks, mountains, and high-altitude Andean lakes. The service can be operated as either a private or shared tour and includes transportation, professional guiding services, and basic meals throughout the journey.
Itinerary
Itinerary
03:00 am: Hotel pickup in Cusco and departure to Phinaya on an approximately 5-hour journey.
08:00 am: Arrival in Phinaya, breakfast, and time for acclimatization.
09:00 am: Continue the trip for an additional hour toward Quelccaya Glacier.
10:00 am: Arrival at Quelccaya Glacier, guide briefing, free time to explore and take photographs.
12:30 pm: Return to Phinaya to enjoy lunch.
02:00 pm: Visit to Sibinacocha Lake, guide explanation, and time for photographs.
04:00 pm: Return to Cusco.
08:00 pm: Approximate arrival in Cusco and transfer back to your hotel.
Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
- Round-trip tourist transportation
- Professional guide
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Assistance throughout the entire tour
Not Included
- Quelccaya Glacier entrance fee
- Additional beverages
- Snacks
- Tips
- Travel insurance
Recommendations
Tour Recommendations
- Bring warm clothing (temperatures can drop below freezing)
- Wear sturdy trekking shoes or hiking boots
- Bring gloves, a hat, and a scarf
- Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended
- Bring water and energy snacks
- Be properly acclimatized in Cusco before the tour
- Carry cash for entrance fees
- Avoid alcohol the day before the tour
- Drink coca tea to help prevent altitude sickness
- Bring a camera or a fully charged cellphone
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Quelccaya Glacier tour?
The tour is physically demanding due to the high altitude and hiking involved. Good physical condition and prior acclimatization in Cusco are strongly recommended.
What altitude is Quelccaya Glacier located at?
The glacier is located at over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level, making it a challenging experience due to the altitude.
Is the tour private or shared?
The service can be operated as either a private or shared tour, depending on the traveler’s preference.
What meals are included?
The tour includes breakfast and lunch along the route, generally prepared locally and designed to provide energy for the cold weather and hiking activities.
Do I need to acclimatize before the tour?
Yes, it is highly recommended to spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Can I experience altitude sickness?
Yes, due to the high elevation. It is recommended to stay well hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and bring medication if advised by your doctor.
What type of clothing should I bring?
Thermal clothing, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a warm hat, and trekking boots are highly recommended.
Are there restrooms along the route?
Restroom facilities are limited and basic, generally available in communities such as Phinaya.
Do I need to pay an entrance fee to the glacier?
Yes, the entrance fee is not included in the tour price and must be paid directly on-site.
What is the best time of year to visit Quelccaya?
The best season is during the dry season (April through October), when there is less rainfall and travel conditions are generally better.
