suyuparina glacier tour

Full-Day Quelccaya Suyuparina Glacier tour from Cusco

PRICE FROM

$ 240
$ 160.00 USD

price per person in group service

Full-Day Quelccaya Suyuparina Glacier tour from Cusco
Full-Day Quelccaya Suyuparina Glacier tour from Cusco
Full-Day Quelccaya Suyuparina Glacier tour from Cusco
Full-Day Quelccaya Suyuparina Glacier tour from Cusco
Full-Day Quelccaya Suyuparina Glacier tour from Cusco
Full-Day Quelccaya Suyuparina Glacier tour from Cusco
Full-Day Quelccaya Suyuparina Glacier tour from Cusco

Full-Day Quelccaya Glacier Tour from Cusco

Experience an unforgettable high-Andean adventure with the Full-Day Quelccaya Glacier Tour from Cusco by Quechuas Expeditions. Discover Quelccaya, the largest tropical ice cap in the world (approx. 42 km²), located in the breathtaking Vilcanota Mountain Range.

The journey begins with an early 3:00 a.m. hotel pickup in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive to Phinaya (4,700 m / 15,420 ft). From there, enjoy a 20-minute walk along moderate trails to a panoramic viewpoint at 5,200–5,600 m (17,060–18,370 ft), where you’ll be surrounded by turquoise lagoons, roaming vicuñas, and dramatic snow-capped peaks.

Along the way, our local expert guides will share ancestral stories of Apu Quelccaya, a sacred mountain in Andean cosmology. This full-day Quelccaya trek is suitable for families, beginners, and nature lovers seeking a meaningful and accessible adventure.

The tour includes comfortable transportation, a traditional Andean breakfast in Pitumarca, and a homemade lunch in Phinaya, supporting local communities and honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth). Return to Cusco between 7:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., carrying lasting memories of one of Peru’s most impressive natural wonders.

Cusco I Phinaya Village I Quelccaya Glacier Viewpoint I Sibinacocha Lagoon I Cusco
Duration of the trip:

1 Day

Total Distance

13km

Physical Level:

Moderate

Altitude:

5,200–5,600 meters (17,060–18,370 ft)

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

02 Min - 08 Max

Full-Day Quelccaya Glacier Tour from Cusco

The Full-Day Quelccaya Glacier Tour from Cusco takes you deep into the Vilcanota Mountain Range to witness the world’s largest tropical glacier. This high-Andean adventure combines dramatic landscapes, a short and accessible hike, local culture, and breathtaking natural scenery, offering a unique experience beyond the traditional tourist routes of Peru.

Full-Day Quelccaya Glacier Tour short Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Cusco – Phinaya Village – Quelccaya Glacier – Quelccaya Glacier Viewpoint – Sibinacocha Lagoon – Cusco

Quelccaya Glacier Tour 1 day highlights

  • Visit the largest tropical glacier in the world, Quelccaya.
  • Explore the remote and stunning Vilcanota Mountain Range.
  • Enjoy a short, easy hike suitable for beginners and families.
  • Witness turquoise lagoons, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks in one journey.
  • Spot native wildlife such as vicuñas in their natural habitat.
  • Learn about Andean traditions and the sacred Apu Quelccaya from local guides.
  • Savor a traditional Andean breakfast and homemade local lunch.
  • Travel comfortably with round-trip transportation from Cusco.
  • Visit the breathtaking Sibinacocha Lagoon, one of the largest high-altitude lakes in Peru.
  • Experience an off-the-beaten-path adventure far from crowded tourist routes.

DAY 1
Cusco – Phinaya Village – Quelccaya Glacier – Quelccaya Glacier Viewpoint – Sibinacocha Lagoon – Cusco+

Full-Day Quelccaya Glacier Tour includes

  • Round-trip transportation
  • Entrance fee for the Quelccaya
  • Expert English-speaking guide
  • First aid and oxygen support
  • Brekfast and lunch made with local ingredients
  • Group or private tour options (exclusive)
  • Ongoing assistance throughout the tour

Quelccaya Glacier tour from Cusco doesnt include: (Please, No hidden costs or surprises)

  • Tips (optional)
  • Travel and health insurance.(bring copies with you please): Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance.

Full-Day Quelccaya Glacier tour (Prices for 2026)

Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information as well as a Deposit of 30% and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$160

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities):

Private Service: Price per person: Price based on Number of people departing that date:

02 ppl Private Service : US$260
03 ppl Private Service US$240
04 – 6 ppl Private Service US$200
07 – 10 ppl Private Service US$180
11 – More ppl Private Service US$160

Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Persons Minimum)

What you need to bring on Full-Day Quelccaya Glacier tour from Cusco:

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

To participate in the Quelccaya Glacier Tour sure to bring the following items:

  • Walking sticks (only if needed)
  • A small personal backpack
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
  • Hat or cap
  • Sunscreen
  • Personal items and medications, including altitude sickness prevention pills
  • Toilet paper
  • Snacks
  • Energy bars
  • Lip balm
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera
  • Bottled water
  • Extra cash (soles)

Quelccaya Glacier Tour Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour starts with hotel pickup at 3:00 a.m. and returns to Cusco around 7:30–8:00 p.m.

Where does the tour start?
Pickup is included from your hotel in Cusco (historic center and nearby areas).

How difficult is the hike?
The hike is easy to moderate, approximately 20 minutes, and suitable for beginners.

Do I need trekking experience?
No prior trekking experience is required.

What is the maximum altitude reached?
The viewpoint reaches approximately 5,200–5,600 meters (17,060–18,370 ft) above sea level.

Is altitude sickness a concern?
Due to the high altitude, mild symptoms are possible. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least 1–2 days before the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, for travelers in good health and with prior acclimatization.

What meals are included?
A traditional Andean breakfast and a homemade local lunch are included.

Are vegetarian or special diets available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available with advance notice.

What should I wear for the tour?
Warm layered clothing, waterproof jacket, hiking shoes, hat, gloves, and sunglasses are recommended.

Do I need to bring trekking equipment?
No technical equipment is required; a walking stick is optional.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cusco is included.

Is the tour guided?
Yes, the tour is led by professional local guides with knowledge of the area and Andean culture.

What wildlife can be seen during the tour?
You may see vicuñas, Andean birds, and other high-altitude wildlife.

Can I walk directly on the glacier?
Access depends on weather and safety conditions. In most cases, visits are made to safe viewpoints.

Is Sibinacocha Lagoon included?
Yes, the return journey includes a scenic stop at Sibinacocha Lagoon.

What is the best time of year to visit Quelccaya Glacier?
The best season is May to September, during the dry season.

How cold does it get?
Temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F), especially in the early morning.

Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended.

Why choose this tour over others?
This tour offers a short, accessible hike, authentic local experiences, expert guides, and visits to one of Peru’s most remote and spectacular natural wonders.

Book now with us

Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Sara D profile picture
Sara D
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10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.
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Matthew W profile picture
Matthew W
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Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏
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Arianna O profile picture
Arianna O
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Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!
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naomiammar
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Hardest challenge of my life but worth it One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!
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cade c
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Awesome trek We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.
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Lola U
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Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.
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Julia C.
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Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.
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Emelie A
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Hike of a lifetime! We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!
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