Quelccaya Glacier Trek

Price: Starts at $500

3 Days

Trekking

Challenging

21 Miles/34 km

2,297ft/700 m gain

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Embark on a Legendary Quest:
The Quelccaya Glacier

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable expedition into the heart of the Andes, where the Quelccaya Glacier awaits with its awe-inspiring beauty and raw, untouched landscape. This 3-day trek is a journey into the wild, where every step takes you higher, deeper, and closer to one of the world's most majestic tropical ice caps. From remote villages to glacial lakes and towering snow-capped peaks, your adventure will be filled with adrenaline, wonder, and discovery. Get ready for the ultimate high-altitude adventure!

PRICE:

1 Trekker (Private): $900 USD per person

2 Trekkers (Private): $600 USD per person
3+ Trekkers or Group Trips: $500 USD per person

Only your $150 non-refundable deposit is due to reserve your space!

What to Pack:

Quelccaya Glacier Trek Packing Guide

Clothing – Pack Smart, Stay Comfortable

Waterproof Jacket & Pants – Be Ready for Anything
The weather in the mountains can change in an instant, so make sure you have a waterproof jacket and pants to stay dry during unpredictable showers.

Thermal Jacket – Stay Warm at Night
The nights can get pretty cold, so a thermal jacket is a must to keep you warm when the temperatures drop.

Quick-Dry Layers – Light and Dry
Avoid cotton—it holds moisture and doesn’t dry quickly. Instead, bring quick-dry layers that keep you comfortable, no matter the conditions.

Fleece Jacket or Warm Sweater – Essential for Evenings
As the sun sets, temperatures can drop. A fleece jacket or warm sweater will be your best friend during chilly evenings.

Trekking Pants – Tough and Ready for the Trail
Choose lightweight yet durable trekking pants to tackle rocky terrain without weighing you down.

Hat, Gloves, and Scarf – Keep Cozy in Cold Mornings & Nights
A hat, gloves, and scarf are essential for those brisk mornings and frosty nights.

Sun Hat or Bandana – Shield Yourself from the High-Altitude Sun
At high altitudes, the sun can be intense. Protect your face and head with a sun hat or bandana.

Sturdy, Waterproof Hiking Boots – Trek with Confidence
To tackle rocky paths and streams, you’ll need sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. They’ll give you the grip and protection you need.

Lightweight Camp Shoes – Relax After the Day’s Trek
After a long day of trekking, treat your feet to lightweight, comfortable camp shoes. You’ll appreciate the break!

Thick Hiking Socks – Stay Warm & Dry
Pack wool or synthetic socks that wick moisture and keep your feet warm and comfortable.

Personal Gear – All the Essentials You’ll Need

Waterproof Daypack – Carry What You Need
Bring a waterproof daypack to carry your essential items, keeping them dry and accessible.

Hydration System – Stay Hydrated
You’ll need at least 2L of water per day, so bring a hydration system like a camelback or water bottles to stay refreshed.

Camera – Capture the Breathtaking Views
You’ll want to document the beauty of the glaciers and mountains, so don’t forget your camera with plenty of memory cards.

Headlamp with Extra Batteries – Don’t Get Caught in the Dark
Be prepared for any early morning or late evening activity with a headlamp. Extra batteries are essential!

Sunglasses – Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays
The sun can be harsh at high altitudes. Bring sunglasses with UV protection to keep your eyes safe.

Sunblock & Lip Balm – High-Altitude Protection
The sun at high altitudes can burn you fast, so pack sunblock and lip balm for protection.

First Aid Kit – For Peace of Mind
Carry a basic first aid kit along with any personal medications you may need.

Trekking Poles – Extra Support
Trekking poles are optional, but they’ll help on those steep inclines and declines.

Other Essentials – For a Smooth Trek

Snacks – Keep Your Energy Up
Pack energy bars, trail mix, or other snacks to keep you energized throughout the day.

Wet Wipes – Stay Fresh
Since showers may be hard to come by, wet wipes are a lifesaver for a quick clean-up.

Camera Memory Cards – Capture Every Moment
Make sure you have extra memory cards for your camera—you won’t want to miss a thing!

Cash in Soles or USD – For Small Purchases
Bring cash in soles or USD for tips or any purchases in remote towns.

This trek isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about embracing the rugged beauty of the Andean heartland. Each day offers a chance to push your limits, take in awe-inspiring views of glaciers, and connect with nature in ways you’ve never experienced before.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let’s hit the trail!

Before You Embark on

This Epic Adventure: Know Before You Go

Altitude Awareness – Take It Slow, Stay Safe

The Quelccaya Glacier trek reaches impressive heights, with peaks up to 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). To avoid altitude sickness, spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water to help your body adjust, and keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort, like dizziness, headaches, or nausea. If that happens, slow down and listen to your body—there’s no rush on this journey!

Weather & Conditions – Expect the Unexpected

Mountain weather is always a bit of a gamble! During the day, you’ll enjoy warm, sunny skies (around 18°C/64°F), but don’t be fooled—nights can get cold, dipping down to -5°C (23°F) or even lower. Afternoon rain showers are common, so be ready for all kinds of weather, from bright sunshine to unexpected downpours. Layer up and bring that rain jacket!

Physical Preparation – Get Ready for the Adventure

This trek is not too technically difficult, but the high altitudes and rugged terrain demand a moderate fitness level. You don’t need to be a marathon runner, but comfort with long days of hiking on steep inclines is key. A little bit of pre-trip cardio and leg-strengthening exercises will make a huge difference, helping you feel strong and ready for the adventure ahead.

What’s Included – All You Need, No Extra Stress

We’ve got you covered! The guides, porters, food, and camping gear are all taken care of. You just need to pack your personal essentials. Keep your gear light and smart—especially when it comes to warm layers for chilly nights and gear for high-altitude conditions. You’ll be set to trek with ease, and all you need to worry about is enjoying the adventure!

Day 1: Cusco to Phinaya – Gateway to the Glacier

Your journey begins with an early morning drive from Cusco through the Andean highlands, passing small villages and herds of alpacas grazing in the puna grasslands. Arriving at Phinaya (4,800m/15,748 ft), a remote village with no motorized traffic, you’ll meet your trekking team and enjoy a warm meal before starting the trek. From here, it’s a scenic hike through rolling hills and along glacial rivers until reaching Comercocha Lake, where you’ll camp with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Highlights:

Scenic drive through remote Andean landscapes
Acclimatization hike near Phinaya
First views of the massive Quelccaya Ice Cap

Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
Starting Elevation: Cusco (3,399m/11,152 ft)
Ending Elevation: Comercocha Lake (5,000m/16,404 ft)
Elevation Gain: ~200m (656 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate – gradual ascent to higher altitudes

Day 2: Glacial Wonders – Exploring Quelccaya Ice Cap

Wake up to the crisp mountain air and prepare for an exciting day of glacier exploration. The trek ascends toward the Quelccaya Ice Cap (5,500m/18,045 ft), where you’ll witness awe-inspiring ice cliffs, massive seracs, and deep crevasses. You’ll also visit the stunning Sibinacocha Lagoon, a high-altitude glacial lake with its surreal blue waters. Spend time exploring the area, learning about the impact of climate change on the glacier, and taking in the silence of this pristine environment. After a packed day, return to camp at Comercocha Lake.

Highlights:

Up-close experience with the Quelccaya Ice Cap
Views of massive ice formations and glacial landscapes
Visit to the breathtaking Sibinacocha Lagoon

Distance: ~14 km (8.7 miles)
Starting & Ending Elevation: Comercocha Lake (5,000m/16,404 ft)
Elevation Gain: ~500m (1,640 ft)
Difficulty: Challenging – high altitude and glacier trekking

Day 3: Return to Phinaya & Drive to Cusco

After a peaceful morning in the Andes, you’ll start the return trek to Phinaya, retracing your steps through the high-altitude plains. Along the way, enjoy the last views of the snow-capped peaks, glacial rivers, and wide open landscapes. Once in Phinaya, a private vehicle will take you back to Cusco, with a stop for a well-deserved meal along the way.

Highlights:

Final breathtaking views of the Quelccaya region
Leisurely descent back to Phinaya
Scenic drive back to Cusco

Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
Starting Elevation: Comercocha Lake (5,000m/16,404 ft)
Ending Elevation: Cusco (3,399m/11,152 ft)
Elevation Loss: ~200m (656 ft)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – mostly downhill

What’s Included in Your Glacier Expedition:

All You Need for an Epic Journey

Experienced English-Speaking Guide – Expert Leadership
An experienced English-speaking guide will lead you through the adventure, providing insights and ensuring a smooth, memorable experience.

Porters – Lighten Your Load
Porters will carry your camping gear and supplies, so you can trek without the extra weight, focusing on the beautiful surroundings.

Full Camping Gear – Sleep Under the Stars
High-quality camping gear, including tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, and everything else you need for a comfortable stay in the wild.

All Meals – Stay Energized
Enjoy freshly prepared meals throughout the trek:

Day 1: Lunch, dinner, and snacks.
Day 2: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and festival snacks.
Day 3: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

Round-Trip Transportation – Hassle-Free Travel
Transport from Cusco to Ocongate and back to Cusco is included, ensuring you travel comfortably without worrying about logistics.

Permits for the Quelccaya Glacier – No Hidden Costs
All necessary permits for access to the Quelccaya Glacier and surrounding areas are included, allowing you to explore these awe-inspiring sights.

First Aid Kit & Emergency Support – Safety First
A first aid kit is provided, and emergency support is available, including a satellite phone for urgent communication if needed.

Exclusions

Travel Insurance – Highly Recommended
Travel insurance is not included but is mandatory for your safety, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and trekking accidents.

Personal Items – Extra Costs Along the Way
Personal items such as toiletries, snacks, and other non-essential items are not included, so pack accordingly.

Tips for Guides, Porters, and Chefs – Optional but Appreciated
Tips for the team are not included, but a tip of $30-50 for the guide, porters, and chefs is suggested for their exceptional service.

Alcoholic Drinks – Not Included
Alcoholic drinks are not included in the trek, but feel free to bring your own if desired.

Souvenirs – Extra Costs
Any souvenirs purchased along the way are not included, so remember to bring extra funds if you wish to take home a memento.

FAQs: Your Questions,

Answered for the Ultimate Glacier Expedition

What exactly is the Quelccaya Glacier?

The Quelccaya Glacier is the world’s largest tropical ice cap, located in the Peruvian Andes. It’s a pristine, frozen wonder amidst a tropical region, creating an incredible contrast. Standing at its base, you’ll feel like you're on the edge of the world. This trek offers a rare opportunity to experience a glacial world within the tropics!

How difficult is the trek?

This trek is moderately challenging. While the trails aren’t technical, you will be hiking through high-altitude terrain and rugged landscapes for several hours each day. The main challenge is the altitude—so long as you’re fit and prepared, you can conquer it. But keep in mind: trekking at over 5,000 meters will test your endurance!

What if I haven’t trekked at high altitudes before?

We recommend pre-acclimatization in Cusco for at least 2 days before the trek. If you haven’t experienced high altitudes before, you might feel some symptoms like mild headaches or shortness of breath. These are normal, but if symptoms worsen, speak with your guide, and don’t hesitate to descend for safety. Drink plenty of water, and take it slow!

When is the best time to do the trek?

The dry season (from May to September) is ideal for this trek, as the skies are clearer, and the weather is more stable, though expect the occasional afternoon rain shower. The temperature at night can get freezing, so be prepared for chilly conditions no matter when you go!

Do I need special permits?

Yes, you’ll need a special permit to trek near the Quelccaya Glacier. This is all handled for you by us, so you don’t need to worry about obtaining it yourself. Just show up, ready for adventure!

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

We’re here to make this the ultimate adventure for you. Consider us your adventure buddies—ready to guide, inspire, and share every step of the journey. Are you ready to dive in?

Lifetime Friends

It's more than just an adventure—experience the Andes with a close-knit group where friendships are forged for a lifetime. Share unforgettable moments with fellow travelers and join the founder on future trips to explore more of the Andes.

Small Groups

Enjoy a more personal and immersive experience with our small group treks. Connect with fellow travelers, receive personalized attention, and truly embrace the beauty of the Andes without the crowd.

Passion

Your adventure is our passion, and your safety is our promise. We craft unforgettable journeys through the Andes that are as secure as they are inspiring. Trust us to keep you safe, so you can focus on embracing the thrill of discovery and the beauty of the journey.