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Hike to the Quelccaya Glacier on a day trip from Cusco. Enjoy a hot Andean breakfast, a traditional lunch, and stunning views of the Vilcanota range.

Highlights

• Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Quelccaya Glacier
• Enjoy a hot Andean breakfast and a traditional lunch in a local community
• Hike through high Andean wetlands and rocky terrain with stunning views
• Learn about the glacier’s geology and its importance to local communities
• Explore the area and take incredible photographs of the glacier and lagoons

Description

03:00 a.m. – Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco early in the morning and begin our journey towards the Quelccaya Glacier. The drive takes approximately 5 hours through scenic Andean landscapes, passing traditional highland villages and grazing alpacas and llamas. 08:00 a.m. – Arrival at the trailhead and breakfast Upon arrival at the trailhead near the remote Andean community of Phinaya (or another nearby access point), we will enjoy a hot Andean breakfast with tea, coffee, and local snacks. Your guide will provide a short briefing about the hike, altitude precautions, and safety tips. Starting elevation: around 4,700 m (15,420 ft). 08:30 a.m. – Start of the hike to Quelccaya Glacier We begin our hike toward the Quelccaya Glacier. The walk takes about 2 hours (depending on the group’s pace) through high Andean wetlands, rocky terrain, and stunning views of the Vilcanota range. The highest point of the hike reaches approximately 5,200–5,400 m (17,060–17,716 ft). Along the way, your guide will share insights about the glacier’s geology, its importance for local communities, and how it has been affected by climate change. 10:30 a.m. – Arrival at the glacier viewpoint We reach the breathtaking viewpoint of Quelccaya, where massive walls of ice glisten under the morning sun. You’ll have time to explore the area, take incredible photographs, and admire nearby turquoise lagoons. Your guide will explain that Quelccaya once covered over 44 km², making it the world’s largest tropical glacier. 11:00 a.m. – Return hike After enjoying the panoramic views, we begin our hike back to the starting point. The descent is easier, allowing time for photos and rest along the way. 12:30 p.m. – Lunch in a local community We will have a traditional Andean lunch prepared by locals, featuring regional dishes and fresh ingredients. This is also a wonderful opportunity to interact with the villagers and learn about their way of life in the high Andes. 1:30 p.m. – Drive back to Cusco After lunch, we start our return journey to Cusco. On the way, we may stop at scenic viewpoints or lagoons for photos and short breaks. 7:00 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco We expect to arrive back in Cusco around 7:00 p.m., depending on traffic and road conditions. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel after an unforgettable day in the Peruvian Andes.

Includes

Professional Spanish and English-speaking guide Hotel pickup Downtown drop-off Round-trip transportation by bus Breakfast and buffet lunch (vegetarian options available) Medical Kit – First Aid Kit Oxygen bottle (for emergencies) 1 Wood stick (optional)

Important Information

• The hike reaches high altitudes, up to 5,400 m (17,716 ft), so acclimatization is recommended. Weather can be unpredictable; dress in layers. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. The tour involves a long drive, approximately 5 hours each way.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund