Quelccaya Glacier Full-Day Tour from Cusco
1 Day Hike to Quelccaya Lagoon
This route offers an incredible hike through one of the most impressive areas of the Ausangate Mountain Range. Quelccaya Lagoon is surrounded by snow covered mountains, glaciers, and high altitude landscapes far from the busiest tourist routes. Along the way, you will discover colorful lagoons, streams, and valleys that create some of the most beautiful scenery you will ever see, making this an experience you will never forget.
The hike reaches a maximum elevation of 5,050 meters above sea level and begins at 4,650 meters above sea level. The route covers approximately 6 kilometers and has a moderate level of difficulty due to the altitude. Throughout the hike, you will enjoy panoramic views of the entire area and may see alpacas, vizcachas, and native high altitude plants. Temperatures range from 4°C to 17°C, with frequent cold winds, so warm clothing is recommended. During this adventure, you will experience nature at its purest while enjoying the peace and beauty that define this mountainous region.
Route Highlights
- Best price guaranteed
- Secure Booking
- No hidden fees
- Customizable Packages
Travelers' Choice 2025
Description
- Cusco – Transfer to the Starting Point – Hike to Qelccaya Lagoon – Return to Cusco (Full Day)
DAY 01: CUSCO – QUELCCAYA GLACIER – CUSCO
Enjoy a unique experience in the southern highlands of Peru with our Full Day Tour to Quelccaya Glacier, a high mountain expedition ideal for travelers seeking dramatic landscapes, pristine nature, and rarely explored scenery.
The journey begins at approximately 4:00 a.m. with pickup from your hotel or from designated locations in Cusco’s historic center, such as Regocijo Square or Pachacútec Oval. From there, we travel by private transportation to the high Andean area of Phinaya District. The drive takes approximately five hours and passes through valleys, plains, and landscapes typical of the Peruvian Altiplano.
Upon arrival in the village of Phinaya, you will enjoy a traditional regional breakfast, perfect for acclimatizing and restoring your energy. We then continue by vehicle for approximately one more hour until we reach the starting point of the hike near Quelccaya Glacier, also known as Suyuparina, considered the largest tropical glacier in Peru.
From the base of the glacier, we begin a moderate hike of approximately 40 minutes. Along the way, you will see high Andean lagoons, small streams, and wildlife such as vicuñas, as well as impressive views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. Once we reach the natural viewpoint, you will have free time to admire, photograph, and enjoy the caves and landscapes of this unique glacial environment.
After the visit, we return to the village for a regional lunch prepared with local ingredients. On the way back to Cusco, we will make a special stop at Sibinacocha Lagoon, one of the largest and most scenic lagoons in southern Peru. It is the perfect place to end the day with memorable views. Arrival in Cusco is expected at approximately 9:00 p.m., with drop off at a central location or near your accommodation.
Tour Information
- Minimum elevation: 4,650 meters above sea level
- Maximum elevation: 5,050 meters above sea level
- Approximate distance: 6 kilometers
- Difficulty: Moderate due to the altitude
Weather and Temperature
- Maximum temperature: 17°C
- Minimum temperature: 4°C
- Cold winds are common.
What Is Included?
Includes
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
- Authorized private tourist transportation to the Phinaya area, the access point to the glacier.
- Meals: 1 breakfast and 1 lunch prepared with local ingredients.
- Professional bilingual guide throughout the tour in English and Spanish.
- Basic hiking equipment.
- Emergency oxygen.
- First aid kit.
- Return transfer to your hotel at the end of the tour.
Not Included
- Tips, optional.
- Travel insurance or personal accident insurance.
- Drinks and personal expenses.
- Personal technical equipment such as trekking poles and specialized thermal clothing.
Recommendations
- Small backpack.
- Original identification document or passport.
- Warm layered clothing.
- Windproof and waterproof jacket.
- Sunglasses.
- Trekking pants.
- Camera with spare batteries.
- Water bottle with at least 1 to 2 liters of water.
- Energy snacks.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Toilet paper.
- Small towel.
Packing List
ESSENTIAL ITEMS
- Passport.Valid STUDENT ID CARD if you booked the student rate.
- Immigration Card provided upon entering Peru.
- A good backpack, preferably as small as possible.
- Water reservoir or reusable water bottle. A CamelBak style hydration system with a capacity of at least 1 to 2 liters is recommended.
- Comfortable, lightweight shoes with good traction, preferably waterproof Gore Tex footwear during the rainy season.
FOR YOUR BACKPACK:
Since this is a one day tour, we recommend carrying only the essentials in a lightweight and comfortable backpack:
- 1 long sleeve shirt or T shirt.
- Warm layered clothing, such as a fleece jacket.
- Windproof jacket.
- Raincoat or waterproof jacket for the rainy season.
- Sun hat and warm hat.
- Gloves.
- Small quick drying towel.
- Charger or spare batteries for your phone and camera.
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen.
- Facial moisturizer.
- Insect repellent.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Wet wipes.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Toilet paper.
- Personal medication.
- First aid supplies such as bandages and moleskin.
ITEMS TO CARRY IN YOUR BACKPACK:
- Water bottle or canteen.
- Sun hat.
- Warm and waterproof clothing.
- Camera or cell phone.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for your trash.
- Extra cash for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.
Additional Information
Can You Visit Qelccaya Glacier in One Day from Cusco?
Yes. The Qelccaya Glacier tour is designed as a full-day excursion from Cusco. The tour departs very early in the morning and returns in the evening. During the journey, you will visit the Phinaya area, Qelccaya Glacier, and Sibinacocha Lake.
How Difficult Is the Qelccaya Glacier Tour?
The tour is considered moderately difficult, mainly because of the high altitude. The route reaches approximately 5,050 meters (16,568 feet) above sea level, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended. It is also important to walk at a comfortable pace throughout the excursion.
Do I Need to Acclimatize Before Visiting Qelccaya Glacier?
Yes. Because the tour takes place at very high altitude, we recommend spending at least one or two days in Cusco before the excursion. Proper acclimatization, good hydration, and adequate rest can help you enjoy the experience more comfortably.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Qelccaya Glacier Tour?
The hike takes place in the surroundings of Qelccaya Glacier and allows you to reach natural viewpoints and enjoy the high-Andean scenery. Since the walk is at high altitude, the pace may vary depending on each traveler’s physical condition and the weather conditions on the day of the tour.
What Should I Wear for the Qelccaya Glacier Tour?
We recommend dressing in warm layers and bringing a windproof and waterproof jacket, comfortable hiking pants, a hat, gloves, and trekking shoes with good traction. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also important because of the strong sun exposure at high altitude.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Qelccaya Glacier?
The tour can be done throughout the year, although the months with less rainfall generally offer better conditions for enjoying the high-mountain scenery. Weather conditions in this area can change quickly, so it is important to bring appropriate clothing regardless of the season.
What Places Are Visited During the Qelccaya Glacier Tour?
The main places visited during the tour are the village of Phinaya, Qelccaya Glacier, and Sibinacocha Lake. Along the way, you will also enjoy high-Andean landscapes, lagoons, streams, and views of the Vilcanota mountain range.
Can You See Wildlife During the Tour?
While traveling through the high-Andean areas, you may see native wildlife such as vicuñas, alpacas, and different species of birds. Wildlife sightings depend on the natural conditions of the day.
Is the Qelccaya Glacier Tour Suitable for Children or Older Adults?
Because the tour reaches elevations above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), physical condition, acclimatization, and individual tolerance to altitude should be carefully considered. For children, older adults, or travelers with medical conditions, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking part in a high-altitude excursion.
What Time Does the Qelccaya Glacier Tour Start and Finish?
The tour begins at approximately 4:00 a.m. with pick-up in Cusco. After visiting Qelccaya Glacier and stopping at Sibinacocha Lake on the return journey, arrival back in Cusco is expected at approximately 9:00 p.m.
What are customers saying about Us
At Machu Picchu Viajes Perú, our goal is to create the best possible experience for all our clients. Proof of our commitment is reflected in our customer recommendations.
Our rating on TripAdvisor
Our rating on Google
4.9/5 Reviews
Over 10,000 travelers servedMore than a trip, we create authentic experiences in Peru
We specialize in designing personalized trips to Machu Picchu and the main destinations in Peru, combining impeccable organization, personalized attention, and deep local knowledge.
Proven Experience
Years of experience operating routes such as the Inca Trail, Salkantay, and cultural tours, with packages throughout Peru.
Specialized Local Team
Certified guides and trained staff who guarantee quality service and professional support.
Safe and Official Operations
Company registered and authorized by official tourism entities in Peru.
Commitment to the Community
We work with local providers promoting sustainable development and responsible tourism.
National and international distinctions that support our commitment to quality and excellence in every experience.
Machu Picchu Viajes Peru is a highly recommended company on Tripadvisor, ranked as one of the best tour operators nationwide, winner of the 2025 Excellence Award.
Certificates and Authorizations
Machu Picchu Viajes Peru is a company fully authorized by the Peruvian government, certifying us as a legally established company with multiple excellence certificates.
Machu Picchu Viajes Peru meets the highest social and environmental standards in the tour operator market, meaning we practice sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism.
Related Tours
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
TOUR IN CUSCO
Travel Associations & Cetifications
Our awards and recommendations reflect our commitment to excellence and quality at every step.
