Quelccaya Glacier Full Day

4:00–4:30 a.m. — Hotel Pickup in Cusco

Our team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between approximately 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. Once the group is ready, we will begin the journey toward the southern region of Cusco.

During the drive, you will observe changing landscapes as we leave the city and enter rural valleys surrounded by mountains and traditional Andean communities.

Journey to Pitumarca

We will travel by tourist transportation toward Pitumarca, enjoying views of agricultural fields, rivers and high-Andean scenery along the route.

The guide will provide information about the day’s itinerary, safety recommendations and the importance of walking slowly at high altitude.

Breakfast

We will stop at a local restaurant to enjoy breakfast and prepare for the hike. This is an important opportunity to eat well, hydrate and organize your personal equipment before continuing toward the mountains.

Transfer to Phinaya

After breakfast, we will continue toward Phinaya, a remote high-Andean community located near the Quelccaya Glacier.

The road offers spectacular views of open plains, mountain ranges and the distinctive landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. Upon arrival, the guide will give a final briefing before beginning the trek.

Hike to Quelccaya Glacier

We will begin a moderate hike toward the Quelccaya Glacier. The walking time and pace may vary depending on weather conditions, trail conditions and the physical condition of the group.

Because the route reaches an extremely high elevation, we will walk slowly and take regular breaks. Along the way, you will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glacial terrain and remote Andean wilderness.

The guide will accompany the group throughout the hike and monitor participants for signs of altitude sickness.

Exploration and Photography

Upon reaching the designated viewpoint, you will have free time to admire the Quelccaya Glacier and take photographs of its impressive ice formations.

You will also be able to appreciate the silence and scale of this remote natural environment. Visitors must follow the guide’s instructions and maintain a safe distance from unstable ice or restricted areas.

Lunch

After completing the hike, we will return to the vehicle and travel to a local restaurant for lunch.

This will be an opportunity to rest, recover energy and share impressions of the experience before beginning the journey back to Cusco.

Return to Cusco

After lunch, we will begin the return trip to Cusco. The estimated arrival time is between 6:30 and 7:00 p.m., although this may vary depending on road, weather and hiking conditions.