Quelccaya Trek 2 Days | Alternative Routes in Cusco

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Description

Quelccaya, The tropical Glacier that is in Southern Peru, Hike through the striking Quelccaya ice cap in the Ausangate mountain sector, gazing at the stunning turquoise lagoons and amazing glacial mountains of andean. Come up front with the Quechua people living in this region and experience their tradition and customs.

Quelccaya, the remarkable tropical glacier of Southern Peru, invites you into a world shaped by ice, altitude, and ancestral presence. Hiking across the striking Quelccaya ice cap in the Ausangate mountain region feels like stepping into another dimension—one where endless fields of shimmering ice, intensely turquoise lagoons, and towering Andean glacial peaks dominate the landscape with quiet power.
This journey is not only about the raw beauty of the Andes; it is also a genuine encounter with the people who call this remote region home. Here, the Quechua communities maintain deep-rooted traditions, timeless customs, and a spiritual connection to their mountains. Meeting them means discovering a way of life where every action reflects respect for the land and the legacy of their ancestors.
Exploring Quelccaya is an experience that blends adventure, natural wonder, and living culture. It is a place where you stand face-to-face with ice that has endured for centuries while connecting with the enduring heart of the Andes.

DAY 1: Cusco – Pitumarca – Phinaya – Sivinacocha Lake – Quehuar (Campsite)

We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 a.m., then drive toward the traditional village of Pitumarca (approx. 2 hours). Here we enjoy a fresh local breakfast, and you’ll have time to purchase any last-minute items for the trek.
We continue our journey through remote Andean landscapes, passing small communities, open valleys, and herds of alpacas, until reaching the stunning Sivinacocha Lake (4,600 m) — a turquoise high-Andean lagoon framed by impressive snowcapped mountains.
After enjoying the scenery, we continue by car toward Quehuar (4,850 m), our campsite for the night. This location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the immensity of the Vilcanota mountain range. Dinner will be served at camp before resting for the next day’s adventure.

DAY 2: Quehuar – Quelccaya Glacier Exploration – Return to Cusco

After breakfast at camp, we begin our gradual ascent toward the great Quelccaya Ice Cap, the largest tropical glacier on the planet. Starting from 4,850 m, we walk for about 3 hours along a panoramic trail that provides extraordinary views of snow-covered summits and the rugged Andean terrain.
Reaching the glacier (approx. 5 km), we take time to explore the icy formations, capture impressive photos, and appreciate the sheer scale of this natural wonder.
We then return to camp along the same route, where lunch will be waiting. Afterward, we board our private transport back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 8:30 p.m.

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

Pre-Trek Briefing at your hotel, where you will receive all final instructions, route details, and important safety information.
Collection from your hotel in Cusco on the morning of departure.
Private transport from Cusco to Quehua Camp, ensuring a comfortable, direct, and safe ride to the starting point.
Entrance fees to all sites included in the program.
Professional guide, highly trained and knowledgeable, specializing in high-altitude trekking and Andean culture.
Tents: 2 travelers accommodated in spacious 4-person tents, providing extra room for comfort and backpack storage.
Thermarest mattress for improved insulation and restful sleep in cold environments.
Cook and cooking equipment; additional assistants included for larger groups to guarantee excellent service.
Toilet tent for a clean, private, and hygienic camp experience.
Meals as indicated in the itinerary, prepared by our professional cook. Meals blend western-style dishes with traditional Peruvian flavors.
Vegetarian and special menus available upon request.
Dining tent with tables and chairs, plus a fully equipped kitchen tent for meal preparation.
Staff tents and full sleeping arrangements for our team, ensuring proper rest and optimal service quality.
First aid kit, including an emergency oxygen bottle, carried at all times for your safety.

NOT INCLUDED:

Sleeping bag: Available for rent at our office for US $13 if you do not have your own.
Optional tips for your guide and trekking staff.

SHARED GROUP SERVICE

02 Persons / $.450.00 PER PERSON.

03 Persons / $.430.00 PER PERSON.

04 Persons / $.410.00 PER PERSON.

05 Persons / $.390.00 PER PERSON.

06 Persons / $.370.00 PER PERSON.

08 to More Persons / $.350.00 PER PERSON.

What you need to take

Original passport and valid Student Card (ISIC) – both required for entrance controls.
Travel insurance card – essential for any unexpected situation.
Waterproof hiking boots with solid ankle support for uneven and wet terrain.
Waterproof jacket or reliable rain poncho to protect you from high-Andean weather changes.
Sleeping bag – available for rent for US $20 for the entire trip if you prefer not to bring your own.
Warm jacket suitable for cold nights at high altitude.
Hat and gloves for early morning and evening temperatures.
T-shirts for trekking during the day.
Comfortable trekking trousers suitable for long walks.
Rain pants for extra protection during storms.
Sun hat and bathing suit (hot springs available in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes).
Sun protection cream (SPF 35+ recommended), as the Andean sun is extremely strong.
Water bottle to refill during the trek.
Water purification tablets (Micropur recommended) to ensure safe drinking water.
Toilet paper (highly recommended).
Personal medications you may require during the journey.
Camera (well protected) to capture landscapes, plus extra memory/film.
Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries for night-time use.
Extra money (approx. 300 soles) for emergencies, additional snacks, or tipping your porters, cook, and guide.
Walking poles (Black Diamond or Leki recommended) for added stability.

Optional items to take

Short pants for warm mid-day hiking segments.
Walking poles with rubber tips – can also be rented from us for US $15 for the entire trip.
Plasters and bandages for small blisters or minor injuries.