Quelccaya Glacier Day Hike
From US$60 per person
Phinaya | Quelccaya Glaciar | Sibinacocha Lake
Trip Summary
Total time
12 hours
Meals included
Breakfast and Lunch
Group size
Up to 18 people
Transportation
Bus
Why Pick This Tour
Embark on an epic expedition to visit the Quelccaya Glacier, the largest tropical ice cap on the planet. This full-day adventure immerses you in the most remote and pristine landscapes of the Vilcanota Mountain Range.
This tour combines a long, scenic drive across the high plateau with a very short hike (just approx. 0.5 km), allowing you to maximize your time in contact with the ancient ice with the least physical effort at altitude. It is a uniquely awe-inspiring natural science experience in Peru.
The best part of the tour: Guided tour of Quelccaya Glacier Day Hike
Over View – Quelccaya Glacier Full Day
This is an expedition and high-mountain journey lasting approximately 15 hours. The day is intense, beginning extremely early (around 3:00 a.m.) with a pickup at the Plaza Regocijo in Cusco.
The drive is extensive (around 6 hours) across the high plateau, offering panoramic views all the way to the remote village of Phinaya, where you will enjoy a comforting Andean Breakfast (included).
After a final leg by vehicle, you will arrive at the trailhead. The trek to the base of the glacier (5,100 m.a.s.l. / 16,732 ft) is very brief (approx. 15 minutes), making exploration accessible. At the base, you will have time to appreciate its immensity and, if conditions allow, take a short exploration inside the ice.
The return includes a Traditional Local Lunch (included) in Phinaya and a stop to admire the stunning Sibinacocha Lake. The adventure ends back in Cusco at around 9:00 p.m.
Day 1 : Cusco - Phinaya - Quelccaya Glaciar - Sibinacocha Lake - Return Cusco
The expedition begins very early at 3:00 a.m. with a pickup at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco. We will board our transport to begin the long journey of approximately 5 hours through the beautiful landscapes of the Andean high plateau, until we reach the village of Phinaya.
Upon arriving in Phinaya, you will be offered a comforting Andean Breakfast to build your strength before continuing the ascent. We will then reboard the vehicle for approximately one more hour until reaching the trailhead, located at the foot of the Quelccaya Glacier.
From this point, we will begin a brief and accessible hike of just 15 minutes to reach the base of the glacier (5,100 m.a.s.l. / 16,732 ft). Here, we will have the opportunity to appreciate the flora and fauna of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. If weather conditions allow, there will be a chance to take a short exploration inside the Glacier itself.
After enjoying this unique ice experience, we will return to our transport to head back to the village of Phinaya, where a delicious Traditional Local Lunch will be waiting for us.
Finally, we will begin the return journey to the city of Cusco. Along the way, we will stop to admire the stunning Sibinacocha Lake, one of the largest and most beautiful in the Andean high plateau. The adventure will conclude upon arrival in the city of Cusco, with an estimated arrival time of 9:00 p.m.
What’s Included
- Expedition Transportation: Round-trip vehicle Cusco – Phinaya – Cusco.
- Professional Guide: Certified tourism guide providing assistance and explanations.
- Full Meals: Andean Breakfast (in Phinaya) and Traditional Local Lunch (at the end of the trek). Not buffet.
- Safety: First Aid Kit.
What’s Not Included
- Quelccaya Entrance Fee (MANDATORY): S/ 15.00 Soles (Paid in cash at the checkpoint).
- Support Accessories: Trekking poles (recommended to bring or rent).
- Personal Expenses: Additional snacks, bottled water, extra hot beverages, and tips.
- Travel Insurance: Not included, but highly recommended.
Essential Recommendations
I. Altitude Preparation
- Crucial Acclimatization: The maximum altitude of 5,100 m.a.s.l. (16,732 ft) requires spending at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before this tour for proper acclimatization.
- Pace: Although the hike is short, the altitude is extreme. Maintain a steady, slow pace.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water and use coca/muña herbal tea.
II. Logistics & Gear
- Cash Required: You must bring cash (Soles) for the entrance fee (S/ 15.00), as there is no cell signal to use cards.
- Layered Clothing: Dress in layers (thermal clothing for the morning and evening, windbreaker for the day).
- Footwear: Sturdy and comfortable trekking shoes or boots.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen.
2026 Rates – Fair Prices for Our Travelers
I. Quelccaya Glacier – Full Day
Experience an unforgettable journey exploring one of the most impressive landscapes in the Peruvian Andes: the majestic Quelccaya Glacier, considered the largest tropical glacier in the world.
Discover imposing snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lagoons, and unique natural landscapes on an adventure ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
We offer competitive, market-rate pricing, guaranteeing quality, safety, and a well-organized experience for our travelers.
II. 2026 Rate
- Adult: $60 USD per person
- Student: $60 USD per person
Our prices are designed to provide a balance between quality, safety, and an authentic high-mountain experience.
📌 Rates valid for the year 2026. Prices subject to season and availability.
2026 Cancellation Polices – Quelccaya Glacier Full Day
The Quelccaya Glacier tour takes place in a high-mountain area and is subject to the following conditions:
- Reservations & Payments
- To confirm the reservation, a 50% deposit of the total amount is required.
- The deposit is non-refundable in the event of cancellation by the passenger.
- The remaining balance must be paid 1 day before the tour.
- The balance can be paid via bank transfer or in person at our offices on Calle Márquez – Cusco.
- Cancellations
- Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance: no refund applies.
- No Show (failure to appear on the day of the tour): 100% of the service will be charged.
- In the event of voluntary withdrawal during the excursion, there will be no partial or full refund.
- Date Changes
- Changes are permitted with at least 48 hours’ notice, subject to availability.
- An administrative fee may apply depending on the season.
- Weather Conditions & Force Majeure
- The tour takes place in the high mountains (above 5,000 m.a.s.l. / 16,404 ft) and depends on weather conditions.
- In the event of cancellation due to extreme weather or force majeure, the service may be rescheduled according to availability.
- Passenger Responsibility
- The passenger must be in good physical condition and follow the guide’s instructions.
- We are not responsible for incidents resulting from failure to comply with safety guidelines or from pre-existing medical conditions.
Where is the Quelccaya Glacier located?
It is located in the Cusco region, in the Vilcanota Mountain Range, where the impressive Quelccaya Glacier is found — considered the largest tropical glacier in the world.
What is the altitude of the tour?
The route reaches approximately 5,000 m.a.s.l. (16,404 ft), so it is important to be well acclimatized before the excursion.
How long does the tour last?
It is a Full Day tour, starting very early in the morning and ending in the afternoon in Cusco.
How long is the hike and what is the difficulty level?
The hike lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes (round trip), depending on the passenger’s pace. The level is moderate, mainly due to the altitude.
Is acclimatization necessary before the tour?
Yes, it is recommended to spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour to avoid altitude sickness.
What should I bring?
- Warm clothing (gloves, hat, thermal jacket)
- Trekking shoes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water
- Cash for entrance fees or additional expenses
Is it recommended for children or senior travelers?
It depends on their physical condition and adaptation to altitude. It is recommended to consult beforehand if there are any medical conditions.
Is the tour safe?
Yes, as long as the guide’s instructions and high-mountain safety rules are followed.
How far in advance should I book?
During the low season, it is recommended to book at least one week in advance.
During peak season (May to October), earlier booking is recommended due to high demand.
