1 Day
The Qelqaya Glacier (Quelccaya) is one of the most remarkable natural wonders in the Peruvian Andes, the largest tropical ice cap in the world, located high in the Cordillera Vilcanota, between Cusco and Puno. It stretches over 40 km² of ice and rises between 5,200 – 5,700 m / 17,000 – 18,700 ft above sea level, offering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure into remote high-Andean landscapes.
This full-day experience is designed for travelers who want to witness this extraordinary glacier in a single, unforgettable journey from Cusco combining stunning Andean scenery, cultural connections with indigenous communities, and an immersive high-altitude hike to reach the glacier’s panoramic viewpoints.
From the moment you depart in the early morning until your return in the evening, you’ll travel through vast puna grasslands, impressive mountain vistas, and traditional Quechua villages, all framed by the snowy peaks of the Vilcanota range.
Whether you’re drawn by outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or extraordinary landscapes, the Qelqaya Glacier Full Day Tour delivers an authentic Andean experience — perfect for adventurous travelers and nature lovers seeking a unique alternative to classic Cusco full-day excursions.
Group or Private
Cultural and Adventure
Up to 8
Bus
Easy
1 Day
Qelqaya Glaciar Tour 1 Day from Cusco
Your day starts before sunrise with a private pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 3:30 and 4:00 AM. We drive through the dramatic landscapes of the Cordillera Vilcanota, passing traditional Andean villages, high-altitude plains, and snow-capped peaks as the morning light begins to illuminate the mountains.
Around 7:30 AM, we pause for a local breakfast along the way, giving you time to recharge and prepare for the high-altitude hike ahead.
By 8:30–10:30 AM, we reach the Sibinacocha region, one of the most remote corners of southern Peru. From the van, admire sweeping views of puna grasslands, sparkling glacial streams, and, if lucky, vicuñas, alpacas, and other Andean wildlife.
Our trek begins at the trailhead near 5,000 m / 16,400 ft. Over 1.5–2 hours, we follow a steady guided route up to the Qelqaya Glacier viewpoint. Along the way, your guide shares insights on glacial geology, local ecosystems, and climate change impacts.
At the viewpoint, take time to explore, photograph, and marvel at the glacier and the surrounding peaks before enjoying a hearty local lunch prepared by community hosts or our support team around 1:30 PM.
The return drive begins at 2:30 PM, descending through the Andean valleys as you reflect on the day’s adventure. Expect to arrive back at your Cusco hotel between 6:30 and 7:00 PM, with memories of one of Peru’s most pristine high-altitude landscapes.
Highlights: Qelqaya Glacier, Cordillera Vilcanota, Sibinacocha region, Andean wildlife, high-altitude vistas
Altitude: Trailhead 5,000 m / 16,400 ft
Travel Times: 3–3.5 hrs each way by car, 1.5–2 hrs hike to glacier
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Your briefing will take place the night before your trip, at our office at 6 or 6:30 pm, depending on your confirmation email details. The office is located at Calle Garcilaso 2010 Office 2012.
Of course! During the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu, you can store your main luggage at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.
The maximum group size is 8 persons. Our groups are between 2-6 people. Apple Travel Peru specializes in SMALL, PRIVATE groups and provides personalized service.
If you’re pleased with the services you’ve received from our staff, we welcome any gratuities you may wish to offer. While tipping may not be a standard practice in your home country, it is an essential part of the tourism industry in many destinations we operate in. Tipping inspires our staff to provide exceptional service, and it is greatly appreciated. The amount you choose to tip is entirely up to you and should be based on the quality and duration of your trip. We want to emphasize that tipping is not mandatory and should only be given if you feel you’ve received excellent service.
Absolutely! Apple Travel Peru is committed to being a responsible tourism operator that prioritizes sustainability and local engagement. We believe in following universal principles of tourism that protect the environment and ensure that local communities benefit from tourism while respecting their culture and beliefs. To ensure that we achieve this, we have extensively trained all our local staff to understand, appreciate, and respect the local communities and places we visit.
January 10, 2024 · Apple Travel Peru
It was my best experience with Apple Travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly.
Read moreOctober 21, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
Incredible service and experience in Inca Trail 4 days travel. Everything was top of the notch. Thanks Ivanoe, my guide.
Read moreOctober 19, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
The 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was everything I expected and more. Gorgeous from beginning to end. The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable.
Read moreOctober 11, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
It was a great experience with all the team Apple Travel. I enjoyed my whole trip. Thanks a lot for being part of my vacation in Cusco.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A very organized Salkantay experience with caring guides, strong support at altitude, and memorable food after long hiking days.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide and chef made the trek feel safe, enjoyable, and personal, even when altitude made the journey challenging.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A difficult hike became possible thanks to a patient guide who encouraged the group and helped through the hardest sections.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide adapted the pace and itinerary well, combining knowledge, courtesy, and flexibility throughout the tour.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A smooth multi-day trip with patient guiding, careful logistics, clean transport, and thoughtful help at every site.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The experience exceeded expectations with a local guide whose knowledge and enthusiasm made the journey feel meaningful.
Read moreOct 29, 2025 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide brought history and culture to life while keeping the group comfortable and helping capture great memories.
Read moreFeb 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The team handled planning easily and adjusted the route around weather and walking ability without losing key highlights.
Read moreApril 21, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
Expert guides, strong porters, and memorable meals helped turn a demanding trail into a remarkable group experience.
Read moreApril 18, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guides kept the schedule smooth and attentive, making the first visit to Machu Picchu easy to recommend.
Read moreApril 9, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide, cook, and porter team brought great energy, answered questions, and even helped celebrate a birthday.
Read moreApril 17, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide respected a slower pace, shared useful knowledge, and made the route feel supportive and enjoyable.
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