Tour Quelccaya Glacier Trek Camp 3 Days
3 Days from $ USD 415.00
Tour Quelccaya Glacier Trek Camp 3 Days
3 Days from $ 415 | Tour Quelccaya Glacier Trek Camp
Introduction
Highlights
Explore the vast Quelccaya Glacier, known as the largest of its kind in the tropical world. Take in the beauty of Sibinacocha, the largest lake in the Vilcanota Mountain range. Immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience as you visit the communities of the high Andes. Witness the diversity of local wildlife, including vicuñas and parihuanas. Experience breathtaking views with minimal tourist crowds. Admire the stunning landscapes that are emblematic of the Peruvian Andes.
Itinerary
Tour Quelccaya Glacier Trek Camp
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Quelccaya, a magnificent glacier in Cusco known for its grand natural beauty. We’ll start by driving to Pitumarca for a delicious breakfast, then continue on to the Chilca viewpoint and Sibinacocha lagoon for lunch. Afterwards, we’ll make our way to our first camp at Mormorani. There, we’ll visit the Yayamari farm and witness stunning landscapes before ascending to the pass of the same name for a comprehensive view of the Chumpe and Yayamari glaciers.
We’ll then travel to the camp near the Laguna de Cáscara, traverse the expansive Phinaya Valley, and reach the world’s largest tropical glacier, Quelccaya, where we’ll spend some time taking in its awe-inspiring beauty. After this magical experience, we’ll return to our camp with memories to last a lifetime.
Quelccaya Glacier: A Natural Wonder
Located over 5100 meters above sea level in the Vilcanota Mountain Range between the provinces of Canchis (Cusco) and Melgar (Puno), Quelccaya is a truly remarkable sight. With a length of more than 17 km and a surface area of 44 km², the Quelccaya Ice Cap has an ice layer that is 200 m thick and is considered the largest tropical glacier in the world.
Descent - Ascent - Huancanay
On that day, we’ll depart early with a tasty breakfast, and then begin our hike up Cerro Huancanay (16,929 ft / 5,150 m above sea level). We’ll take the same path to the edge of the Quelccaya Glacier’s actual ice cap. During the day, we’ll enjoy exploring the stunning glacial terrain, before returning to the Bajo Huancanay camp at night.
Walking duration varies based on pace.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Alto Huancanay - Cusco
On the final day, we’ll start with a morning breakfast before setting off on the return journey to the Cochas municipality. Our private transportation will be ready to take us back to Cusco city. In the early afternoon, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Cusco.
Travel time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes and 11 km.
Meals provided: Breakfast and Lunch (B, L).
Services included in the trip:
- Round-trip private transportation
- An expert guide who speaks English
- A private chef who prepares nutritious and fresh meals
- Mules and muleteers to carry equipment
- Emergency transport
- All required gear and supplies
- Day 1: Lunch and dinner
- Day 2: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Day 3: Breakfast and lunch
- 2 nights in bivouac accommodation
- A large tent.
What to Bring
Wear clothing that is UV-resistant and made of durable, lightweight materials that can withstand liquid.
For the low temperatures, start with a breathable polo shirt, then add an insulating layer such as a fleece-lined garment, followed by a down jacket and a raincoat. Don’t forget to bring a synthetic hat, gloves, and socks.
Waterproof walking shoes with a smooth sole are required.
Camping gear includes: thermal tent, sleeping bag, blanket, mattress, headlamp, stove, and three-season tent.
Important to bring:
- Sunscreen with a minimum UV filter factor of 30 and special sunglasses for these climates as glare can harm your eyes.
- Solar charger
- A backpack made of lightweight, durable, and waterproof materials such as nylon or polyamide.
- A camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
Enjoy this amazing adventure and connect with the Apu Quelccaya.
The Quelccaya glacier is the largest tropical glacier in the world, spanning over 17 km in length and reaching a height of 5,600 meters. It has a surface area of 44 km2 and a 200-meter-thick layer of ice.
Travel Guide
Getting to the Quelccaya Glacier
To reach the Quelccaya Glacier, it’s essential to spend at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco, and one day before the trek to prepare. Start the journey early, around 5:30 am, by taking a bus from Cusco Bus Terminal on Huayruuropa Avenue to Sicuani. After breakfast and shopping in Sicuani, take a taxi or bus to Phinaya village. Enjoy the scenic views during the journey.
Once you arrive, embark on a two-day hike or opt for horseback riding, which can be arranged with local hires. There are camps available along the way for overnight stays.
The Quelccaya Glacier
Quelccaya Glacier is a significant source of water for various wildlife and feeds the Vilcanota River and the Sibinacocha Lagoon. It also supplies water to nearby towns in the Cusco region through its melting glaciers, which is increasing due to the impacts of climate change. This has led to various access routes to the glacier for scientific research and monitoring of local climate changes.
Local Legend
Residents of the nearby glacier community tell a story of their ancestors seeing a figure running towards them from the slopes of Quelccaya Glacier. The figure was a man dressed in a white poncho, considered an unusual appearance, causing fear among the people and preventing them from approaching. This man is believed to be the protector of the area.
Faqs Tour Quelccaya Glacier Trek Camp 3 Days
To reach the Quelccaya Glacier, you should first spend at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco. Prepare all necessary items, and on the day of the trip, leave early at 5:30 AM from the bus station in the Sicuani neighborhood on Huayruuropa Avenue. Have breakfast and purchase any necessary supplies before taking a taxi or bus to Phinaya. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes during the journey.
Upon arrival, you can either take a two-day hike to the glacier or opt to rent a horse from local residents. Along the way, you will come across campsites where you can spend the night and continue your journey the next morning. The glacier is located in the Pitumarca district of the Canchis province, southeast of Cusco, and situated at an altitude of over 5100 meters.
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