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Qelccaya Glacier Full-Day Tour: Trek to the World’s Largest Tropical Ice Cap
The Quelccaya Ice Cap (also spelled Qelccaya) is the largest tropical glacier in the world and one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Cusco, Peru. Situated in the Vilcanota Mountain Range at over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level, this destination is the ultimate bucket-list experience for high-altitude trekking enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and landscape photographers.
1 day
Departures: Diarias
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Qelccaya Glacier Full-Day Tour: Trek to the World’s Largest Tropical Ice Cap
Explore a massive 44 km² ice field surrounded by turquoise glacial lakes, ice caves, and sweeping panoramic views of the Andes. This full-day Qelccaya Glacier tour features an accessible walk to the base of the mountain, allowing you to get up close to towering walls of suspended blue ice.
Beyond its striking beauty, Quelccaya is a critical scientific sanctuary holding thousands of years of climate history within its ice layers. Visiting this fragile ecosystem offers a rare opportunity to connect with pristine Andean nature and witness one of South America's most remarkable glaciers.
Detailed Itinerary: Day by Day
Day 1:
Cusco – Sicuani – Phinaya – Sibinacocha Lagoon – Cusco
03:00 AM – 03:30 AM | Hotel Pickup and Scenic Drive
We begin early with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy a scenic 5-hour drive through the Andean highlands toward the remote village of Phinaya.
08:30 AM | Breakfast and Transfer to the Base
Arrive in Phinaya for a hearty breakfast. Afterward, we continue by vehicle for another hour to the starting point of our trek at the foot of Mount Quelccaya.
10:00 AM | Guided Walk and Glacier Exploration
Begin a short 15 to 20-minute walk to the base of the glacier. You will have ample time to explore, photograph frozen ice caves, and marvel at the massive ice structures.
01:00 PM | Lunch in Phinaya
Trek back to the vehicle and return to Phinaya to enjoy a freshly prepared lunch.
03:00 PM | Sibinacocha Lake Stop & Return Drive
On the way back to Cusco, we make a special stop at Sibinacocha Lake, one of the largest and most striking high-altitude lakes in the Andes.
09:00 PM | Arrival in Cusco
Conclude your adventure as we drop you off near Cusco's historic center or at your hotel.
Included
- Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- Private or group tourist transportation
- Professional bilingual mountain guide (English / Spanish)
- Breakfast and lunch
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank
Not included
- Site entrance fee (S/ 10.00 per person)
- Personal expenses, extra snacks, or tips
Why choose us?
- Quality tour service.
- Creating personalized experiences.
- Free advice from an expert team.
- Permanent customer service.
- Guaranteed departures.
Remember! request a quote and modify this experience with the destinations you want.
Aditional information about this service:
Tips:
Packing & Preparation Checklist
| Category | Must-Have Items | Why It Matters |
| Clothing & Footwear | Thermal layers, windproof jacket, beanie, gloves, and waterproof hiking boots. | Temperatures at the glacier drop below freezing, and wind chill is high. |
| Sun Protection | High-FPS sunscreen (50+), UV-blocking sunglasses, and lip balm. | UV radiation and snow reflection at 5,000+ meters cause severe sunburn quickly. |
| Altitude & Health | Altitude sickness medication, 1.5L water, and coca candies. | Keeps you hydrated and eases symptoms of high elevation. |
| Gear & Cash | Daypack (20-30L), camera with extra batteries, and local currency (Soles). | Extreme cold drains camera batteries rapidly, and no ATMs are available. |
Key Advice for Visitors
-
Acclimate First: Spend at least 2 full days in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,150 ft) prior to this tour to minimize altitude sickness.
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Leave No Trace: Quelccaya is an endangered natural habitat. Pack out all trash and follow your guide's instructions to avoid hazards like ice crevasses.
FAQ
We are committed to providing top-tier experiences and safety in every destination. Plan your dream trip with the confidence of Inca World Travel!
Q: What is the Deposit Payment Process?
Pre-arrival deposits are required for tours in order to reserve tickets, entrances, and lodging. The amount may vary but is generally around 50% and can be paid in a variety of methods depending on your location. These methods include payment by credit card, PayPal, bank transfer, and Western Union.
Q: Can I Join or Leave a Tour During its Duration?
If you are interested in only a segment of a tour package, it is more recommendable reserve individual day tours and transport, or to request one of our tour specialists to create a custom itinerary for you. (Read our terms and conditions)
Q: Are There Age Restrictions on the Tours?
The only restriction is that you must be at least 18 years old if you are traveling independently, otherwise you must be traveling with an adult. There is no upper age limit, but please disclose any health or mobility concerns so that we can ensure that your trip is as comfortable and pleasurable as possible.
Q: How can I change or cancel my reservation?
Any cancelation or change of services should be requested in writing, via email to the specialist making your arrangements. Regardless, it is important to remember that there exist cancelation and modification policies for each program, for which we invite you to review the general terms and conditions.
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