QELCCAYA 1 day

Cusco · Canchis · Qelcaya

1 day

Key Information

Departs
Cusco
Arrives
Cusco
Maximum Altitude
Varies by activity site
Distance
As per itinerary (private transport and walking)
Difficulty
Moderate
Age
18–65
Minimum Travellers
2
Maximum Travellers
10

Highlights

  • Day 1: Qelcaya — The adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco to start the journey to the province of Canchis, in the Cusco region, home to the Qelcaya Glacier, considered the largest tropical glacier in the world.

Introduction

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco to start the journey to the province of Canchis, in the Cusco region, home to the Qelcaya Glacier, considered the largest tropical glacier in the world.

Itinerary

Day 1: Qelcaya

Qelcaya

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco to start the journey to the province of Canchis, in the Cusco region, home to the Qelcaya Glacier, considered the largest tropical glacier in the world. During the journey, the landscape transforms into vast Andean plains, imposing mountains, and communities that preserve ancestral traditions.

Along the way, we’ll stop for a typical breakfast, ideal for acclimatizing and recharging before the hike. Upon arrival at the starting point, we’ll begin a guided hike of moderate difficulty towards the glacier, traversing a unique natural environment dominated by ice, snow, and Andean silence.

Upon reaching Qelcaya, visitors will find themselves facing an immense mass of ice that reflects white and blue hues, creating a stunning and perfect setting for photography. The guide will provide information about the importance of the glacier, its environmental impact, climate change, and its value within the Andean ecosystem.

After enjoying the scenery and free time for photos, you’ll return to the starting point and then head to a local community where a traditional lunch will be served. Finally, you’ll begin your return journey to Cusco, concluding a unique experience in one of Peru’s most extreme and breathtaking landscapes.

A tip for the trip: maintain a relaxed pace, dress warmly, and enjoy the silence; Qelcaya is a direct encounter with the power of nature.

Meals included
Traditional breakfast and lunch
Return
Cusco

Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour price covers the services listed as included below, such as transport and guiding for the day. Personal expenses, optional meals, and items marked as excluded are not part of the rate.

What’s included?

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco.
  • Tourist transportation throughout the tour.
  • Traditional breakfast and lunch.
  • Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English).
  • Guided hike to the Qelcaya Glacier.

What’s excluded?

  • Dinner.
  • Travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses.
  • Additional drinks or snacks.

Essential Information

Before you travel, review what to pack, who this experience suits, and how cancellations work. The notes below cover gear, access, health considerations, and refunds.

  • ID or passport.
  • Warm clothing for extreme weather (dress in layers).
  • Waterproof hiking boots.
  • Thermal and waterproof jacket.
  • Gloves, hat, and scarf.
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses.
  • Small backpack, water, and snacks.
  • Trekking poles (optional).
  • Cash for personal expenses.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
No
Is it stroller accessible?
No
Are service animals allowed?
Yes
Can travellers easily arrive or depart on public transportation?
No
Are infants required to sit on laps?
Yes
Are infant seats available?
No

  • Not recommended for travelers with back problems.
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers.
  • Not recommended for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
  • Not recommended for people who suffer from altitude sickness.

Please contact our team for current cancellation terms and refund conditions. We recommend confirming your policy in writing before you travel.

Plan your trip

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