TREK TO THE GLACIER OF QUELCCAYA 2 Days (FROM MAY TO OCTOBER)

Set out on a captivating two-day trek to the awe-inspiring Glacier of Quelccaya, nestled in Peru’s breathtaking Andean highlands. This unforgettable adventure, available from May to October, offers a chance to witness the world’s largest tropical ice cap and learn about the region’s stunning natural beauty. With a focus on physical fitness, the trek includes essential transportation, camping gear, and meals, ensuring a comfortable and memorable exploration of this remarkable destination. But the real question is, are you prepared to take on the challenge?

Good To Know

• A 2-day trek culminating at the Quelccaya Glacier, the world’s largest tropical ice cap, available from May to October departing from Cusco, Peru.
• The trek includes transportation, camping gear, and meals, and is rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, but requires strong physical fitness and a pre-trek briefing.
• The itinerary involves an initial 4-5 hour hike on the first day, followed by an early start on the second day to explore the Quelccaya Glacier.
• Proper gear and equipment, including warm, weatherproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots, are essential for navigating the challenging terrain and ensuring comfort and safety.
• The trek features breathtaking Andean landscapes, including verdant valleys, pristine alpine lakes, and dramatic glacial formations, culminating in the majestic beauty of the Quelccaya Glacier.

Overview of the Trek

The trek to the Glacier of Quelccaya takes hikers through stunning Andean landscapes.

Lasting 2 days, the excursion takes adventurers to the breathtaking Quelccaya Glacier, the largest tropical ice cap in the world.

The tour is available from May to October and departs from Cusco, Peru.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, the trek includes private transportation, camping equipment, and all meals.

A pre-trek briefing is held at your hotel 1-2 days beforehand.

Strong physical fitness is required, as the trek isn’t recommended for those with medical conditions or mobility issues.

Booking is confirmed upon purchase, though the tour is non-refundable.

Itinerary and Duration

Typically, the trek to the Glacier of Quelccaya spans two days. On the first day, hikers will depart from Cusco and travel by private transportation to the starting point of the trek.

The hike itself takes around 4-5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 8 km through scenic mountain landscapes. Hikers will set up camp and enjoy a hearty meal before resting for the night.

The second day involves an early start to reach the stunning Glacier of Quelccaya, spending time exploring the ice formations before returning to Cusco, completing the adventure.

The entire experience is designed to immerse adventurers in the natural beauty of Peru’s highlands during the prime trekking season from May to October.

Logistics and Pickup

To start the trek, travelers will receive a briefing at their hotel in Cusco 1-2 days before the excursion. This is where you’ll meet your guide and review the itinerary. They’ll also collect your hotel information to coordinate pickup on the day of the trek.

Pickup Details
Hotel Pickup	✓
Pick-up Time	6 AM
Punctuality	Important
Dietary Needs	Inform Guide

The trek is not accessible for wheelchair users, and is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions. A strong level of physical fitness is required.

Gear and Equipment

Although the trek to Quelccaya Glacier requires only basic camping equipment, it’s crucial to pack the right gear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

The essentials include:

1. Warm, weatherproof clothing: Bring layers, such as thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and waterproof outerwear, to protect against the changing Andean climate.

2. Sturdy hiking boots: Invest in a reliable pair of well-broken-in boots with good traction to navigate the uneven terrain.

3. Camping gear: Pack a high-quality tent, sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, and a sleeping pad to ensure a restful night’s sleep.

With the proper equipment, trekkers can focus on enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the Quelccaya Glacier.

Landscape and Scenery

The trek to the Quelccaya Glacier takes trekkers through a breathtaking Andean landscape.

The route winds through verdant valleys, past pristine alpine lakes, and alongside towering peaks. Hikers will be awed by the dramatic glacial formations, with their striking blues and whites contrasting against the rugged grey rock.

As the trek progresses, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of the Quelccaya Glacier itself – a vast expanse of ice that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Throughout the journey, trekkers will be surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Andes, making this a truly unforgettable experience.

Physical Fitness Requirements

Trekkers embarking on the journey to the Quelccaya Glacier must possess a strong physical fitness level. This trek isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.

The challenging terrain and high altitude require a significant level of endurance and stamina. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, consider the following:

1. Engage in regular cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, or cycling to build your stamina.
2. Incorporate strength training to enhance your overall muscle strength.
3. Acclimatize to the high altitude by spending a few days in Cusco prior to the trek.

Maintaining a high level of physical fitness is essential for successfully completing this trek and appreciating the stunning glacial landscape.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

When booking the Trek to the Glacier of Quelccaya, travelers receive confirmation immediately upon completing their reservation.

This private tour ensures only your group will participate. The company offers a lowest price guarantee, so you can be confident you’re getting the best deal.

However, it’s important to note that the tour is non-refundable, meaning no refunds will be issued for cancellations. This policy is in place to help the operator manage group sizes and ensure the trek runs smoothly.

Travelers should carefully consider their schedule and physical abilities before booking, as no exceptions will be made to the cancellation policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regarding the Trek to the Glacier of Quelccaya, potential participants may have several common questions. The tour operators are happy to address these inquiries to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Some frequently asked questions include:

1. What’s the average group size? The private tour is limited to your group only, with no minimum or maximum size requirement.

2. What’s the difficulty level? This trek requires a strong fitness level, as it involves hiking over challenging terrain. It’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

3. Can I book this tour last minute? While availability may vary, it’s best to book in advance, as the tour has limited spots during the May to October season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter for the Trek?

The tour overview doesn’t explicitly mention porter services, but it’s common for trekking tours in Peru to offer optional porter hire to carry gear. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about this option and any associated costs.

Can I Extend the Trek to Include Additional Days?

Yes, the tour operator likely offers the option to extend the trek and include additional days. Travelers should inquire about adding extra days to the itinerary when booking the tour to accommodate their desired length of the experience.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Permissions to Do This Trek?

Hikers need a permit to trek to the Glacier of Quelccaya. The tour operator will handle obtaining the necessary permits on the hiker’s behalf. Permits are required to protect the natural environment and ensure a safe experience for all participants.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Glacier?

The best time to visit the glacier is during the dry season, from May to October. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions and accessibility to the glacier for trekkers.

Is There Any Opportunity to See Wildlife on the Trek?

While the trek focuses on the glacier itself, there may be opportunities to spot wildlife like alpacas or foxes in the surrounding areas. However, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed due to the remote and high-altitude nature of the trek.

The Sum Up

The trek to the Glacier of Quelccaya is an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning Andean highlands. With a focus on physical fitness, this 2-day adventure offers breathtaking landscapes, from verdant valleys to pristine lakes, culminating at the world’s largest tropical ice cap. Featuring comfortable camping, essential transportation, and delicious meals, this trek provides an immersive exploration of Peru’s natural wonders, perfect for adventurous travelers seeking an unparalleled experience.