From Cusco - Quelccaya Glacier Hike with Breakfast and Lunch

Hike to the Quelccaya Glacier on a day trip from Cusco. Enjoy a hot Andean breakfast, a traditional lunch, and stunning views of the Vilcanota range.
03:00 a.m. – Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco early in the morning and begin our journey towards the Quelccaya Glacier. The drive takes approximately 5 hours through scenic Andean landscapes, passing traditional highland villages and grazing alpacas and llamas.

08:00 a.m. – Arrival at the trailhead and breakfast
Upon arrival at the trailhead near the remote Andean community of Phinaya (or another nearby access point), we will enjoy a hot Andean breakfast with tea, coffee, and local snacks. Your guide will provide a short briefing about the hike, altitude precautions, and safety tips. Starting elevation: around 4,700 m (15,420 ft).

08:30 a.m. – Start of the hike to Quelccaya Glacier
We begin our hike toward the Quelccaya Glacier. The walk takes about 2 hours (depending on the group’s pace) through high Andean wetlands, rocky terrain, and stunning views of the Vilcanota range. The highest point of the hike reaches approximately 5,200–5,400 m (17,060–17,716 ft). Along the way, your guide will share insights about the glacier’s geology, its importance for local communities, and how it has been affected by climate change.

10:30 a.m. – Arrival at the glacier viewpoint
We reach the breathtaking viewpoint of Quelccaya, where massive walls of ice glisten under the morning sun. You’ll have time to explore the area, take incredible photographs, and admire nearby turquoise lagoons. Your guide will explain that Quelccaya once covered over 44 km², making it the world’s largest tropical glacier.

11:00 a.m. – Return hike
After enjoying the panoramic views, we begin our hike back to the starting point. The descent is easier, allowing time for photos and rest along the way.

12:30 p.m. – Lunch in a local community
We will have a traditional Andean lunch prepared by locals, featuring regional dishes and fresh ingredients. This is also a wonderful opportunity to interact with the villagers and learn about their way of life in the high Andes.

1:30 p.m. – Drive back to Cusco
After lunch, we start our return journey to Cusco. On the way, we may stop at scenic viewpoints or lagoons for photos and short breaks.

7:00 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco
We expect to arrive back in Cusco around 7:00 p.m., depending on traffic and road conditions. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel after an unforgettable day in the Peruvian Andes.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.