03:00 AM
Pick-up and departure from Cusco
Pick-up from your hotel (downtown area) or meeting point. We begin the journey south through Andean valleys.
Quelccaya Glacier Tour from Cusco
Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco | Full Day + Sibinacocha Lagoon
The Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco is a full-day high-mountain experience in the Vilcanota Mountain Range. We will visit the largest tropical glacier in the world, where you can admire crystal-clear lagoons, streams, high-Andean landscapes, and local wildlife such as vicuñas in their natural habitat.
To complete the adventure, we will make a special stop at the impressive Sibinacocha Lagoon, one of the largest and most scenic lagoons in the Peruvian highlands, ideal for panoramic photos and a short rest before the return journey.
Why choose the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco?
- Unique destination: Visit the largest tropical glacier in the world in just one day.
- Unforgettable landscapes: Vilcanota Mountain Range, turquoise lagoons, and snow-capped peaks.
- Premium photo stop: Includes a visit to Sibinacocha Lagoon.
- Complete service: Tourist transportation, professional guide, and meals included.
Quick Facts about the Quelccaya Tour from Cusco
🕙 Start: 03:00 a.m. – 03:30 a.m.
⏳ Duration: Full Day (approx. 18 hours).
⚠️ Difficulty: Moderate (due to altitude and weather conditions).
🏁 Maximum Altitude: Approx. 5,200 m.a.s.l.
🥾 Hike: Approx. 45 min. (depending on your pace).
👉 We recommend booking your Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco in advance, especially during high season.
Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco Itinerary (Full Day)
📍 Route: Cusco ➝ Cusipata ➝ Phinaya ➝ Quelccaya Glacier ➝ Sibinacocha Lagoon ➝ Cusco.
⏳ Duration: Full Day (approx. 18 hours).
⏳ Duration: Full Day (approx. 18 hours).
05:30 AM
Breakfast in Cusipata
Stop for an Andean breakfast, ideal for acclimatizing and preparing for the altitude.
10:00 AM
Arrival in Phinaya and transfer to the starting point
We continue to the community of Phinaya (approx. 4,700 m.a.s.l.) and then travel by vehicle to the parking area.
Hike
Hike to the Quelccaya Glacier viewpoint
Approx. 45-minute hike (depending on your pace) to the highest point (approx. 5,200 m.a.s.l.). Free time for photos and to admire the glacier and its lagoons.
Guide
Guided visit and free time
Your guide will explain the glacier, the Vilcanota Mountain Range, and the high-Andean ecosystem.
13:30 PM
Traditional lunch in Phinaya
Return to the community to enjoy a lunch prepared with local ingredients.
15:00 PM
Stop at Sibinacocha Lagoon
We visit one of the largest and most beautiful lagoons in the Andean highlands. Time for photography.
21:00 – 22:00 PM
Return to Cusco
Approximate arrival in Cusco city and end of service near Plaza de Armas / Plaza Regocijo (depending on logistics).
What is Included in the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco
What’s Included
- Tourist Transportation: Round trip (comfortable vehicles).
- Professional Guide: Spanish / English.
- Meals: 1 breakfast + 1 lunch.
- Safety: First aid kit.
- On-route assistance: Oxygen available in case of emergency.
Not Included
- 🎟️ Entrance ticket (paid at destination).
- Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, tips).
- Personal travel insurance.
💰 Entrance Fees (Reference Only):
- 🎟️ Peruvians: S/ 10.00
- 🎟️ Foreign Visitors: S/ 15.00
* Please bring cash (Peruvian soles) and coins. Rates are subject to change by the local administration.
Recommendations for the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco
⚠️ Altitude Notice
This tour reaches approximately 5,200 m.a.s.l.. We recommend being acclimatized in Cusco for at least
2 days before the trip, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding alcohol the night before.
What should I bring for the Quelccaya excursion from Cusco?
The weather is cold and unpredictable (sun, wind, rain, or snow on the same day). Be prepared with:
- Layered warm clothing: thermal wear, fleece, and a windbreaker jacket.
- Gloves, hat, scarf: essential due to the low temperatures.
- Rain poncho / waterproof layer: highly recommended.
- Sun protection: UV sunglasses + sunscreen + hat.
- Energy snacks: chocolate, nuts, energy bars.
- Water: personal bottle.
- Documents: original ID card or passport.
🚫 Restrictions
For safety reasons, it is not recommended for:
- People with medical conditions that may worsen at high altitude (please consult before booking).
- Very young children who are not adapted to high altitude (please check policies).
✅ Final tip: if you are looking for a unique high-mountain experience, the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco is one of the best options from Cusco.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco (Full Day) + Sibinacocha Lagoon
Where does the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco start and end?
The Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco starts with hotel pick-up (downtown area) or at the meeting point between
03:00 a.m. and 03:30 a.m. and ends approximately between
09:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. in Cusco’s historic center (Plaza de Armas / Plaza Regocijo, depending on logistics).
What is the maximum altitude reached during the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco?
The maximum altitude reached during the tour is approximately
5,200 meters above sea level, so it is recommended to be acclimatized before taking this excursion.
How much hiking is involved in the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco?
The hike is approximately 45 minutes (depending on your pace) from the parking area to the viewpoint, returning along the same trail.
The exact distance may vary depending on weather conditions and the transport drop-off point.
What is the weather like in Quelccaya and what temperature should I expect?
The weather in the glacier area is cold and changes very quickly. There are two distinct seasons:
Dry season (April – October): Sunny and windy days, with very cold early mornings. Approximate temperatures range between
-5°C and 10°C.
Rainy season (November – March): Rain, mist, and a possibility of snow. Approximate temperatures range between
-2°C and 9°C.
* Temperatures are approximate and may vary depending on wind and cloud cover.
What is the best time to take the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco?
The best season to take the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco is during the
dry season (April – October), when the roads are usually more stable and visibility is better.
What is the difficulty level of the Quelccaya Glacier Tour from Cusco?
The difficulty is moderate due to the altitude (over 5,000 meters above sea level) and the cold weather. The hike is not long,
but the altitude can make the effort feel more demanding. A basic physical condition and proper acclimatization are recommended.
Can I rent a horse or extra transport during the tour?
In some seasons or communities, local support services may be available (depending on community organization).
If you would like this option, it is best to ask before booking, since
it is not always guaranteed and prices may vary.
What is included in the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco?
In our service, everything is organized for you. The Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco includes:
- Round-trip tourist transportation
- Hotel pick-up (downtown area) or meeting point
- Professional guide (Spanish / English)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- First aid kit
- Oxygen available in case of emergency
What is not included in the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco?
Not included:
- Entrance ticket (paid at the destination)
- Personal snacks and drinks
- Tips
- Personal travel insurance
How much does the entrance ticket to Quelccaya Glacier cost?
The entrance fee is approximate and may vary depending on local administration. As a reference:
Peruvians: S/ 10.00
Foreign visitors: S/ 15.00
* It is recommended to bring cash in soles and coins.
Is Sibinacocha Lagoon included in the tour?
Yes. During the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco, we make a special stop at
Sibinacocha Lagoon for photos and to enjoy the scenery (subject to weather and road conditions).
Is the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco recommended for children?
Due to the altitude (up to 5,200 meters above sea level) and the cold weather, it is mainly recommended for
young people and adults. For minors, it is advisable to check in advance according to age, acclimatization, and health condition.
What should I bring for the Quelccaya Glacier Tour from Cusco?
We recommend bringing:
- Warm clothing (gloves, hat, scarf, windbreaker jacket)
- Rain poncho or waterproof layer
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water and energy snacks
- Trekking shoes or sneakers with good grip
- Original ID card or passport
How can I avoid altitude sickness on the Quelccaya Glacier Tour Cusco?
To reduce the effects of altitude sickness:
- Arrive in Cusco 2 days in advance to acclimatize
- Stay hydrated and eat light meals
- Avoid alcohol the night before
- Drink herbal infusions (coca or muña) if you are used to them
> Consult a doctor if you need medication for high altitude.
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Quelccaya Glacier Tour from Cusco
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