Difficulty
Duration
Group Size
Max Altitude
Rainbow Mountain & Quelccaya Glacier 2 Days
- Vinicunca: Overcome the challenge and conquer the famous Rainbow Mountain.
- Quelccaya Glacier: Discover the largest tropical glacier in the world, an icy giant that will leave you breathless.
Starting from
US$300
per person
Located in the heart of the imposing Vilcanota Mountain Range, the Quelccaya Glacier is not just a destination; it is a natural wonder spanning 44 km² that defies the imagination. At over 5,600 meters above sea level, this icy colossus offers a landscape of wild beauty, sheltered from mass tourism and preserving its ancestral purity.
Our expedition begins in the authentic community of Phinaya, the gateway to a true Andean safari. Along the way, you will witness life in its purest state: herds of vicuñas running through the highland grasslands, the majestic flight of the condor, and curious viscachas among the rocks. All of this is framed by the deep blue waters of lagoons like the spectacular Sibinacocha.
This journey is a calling for photographers and adventurous souls seeking to connect with the energy of the Apus (mountain spirits). Standing before the immense crystal walls of Quelccaya is, without a doubt, a soul-transforming experience.
Cusco | Pitumarca - Cayrahuiri - Rainbow Mountain - Sibinacocha Lagoon - Phinaya
We begin our expedition by uniting two worlds: the vibrant geology of the Rainbow Mountain and the absolute serenity of the Sibinacocha Lagoon. It is a day of contrasts, designed for those seeking the perfect photograph and a real connection with Andean wildlife.
We depart early from the city of Cusco towards the picturesque village of Pitumarca. Here we will enjoy an artisanal breakfast to recharge our energy before the ascent.
After a short drive to the community of Cayrahuiri, we will begin our trek. Step by step, we will ascend to the viewpoint of the majestic Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). From the summit, the view of the mineral strata is simply unforgettable.
After descending, our private transport will take us for 2 hours towards the remote Sibinacocha Lagoon. During this journey, the landscape transforms into a natural sanctuary where alpacas and vicuñas roam freely. We will take a walk along the shores of the lagoon to learn about its ecosystem and the famous high-altitude trout, a pillar of local gastronomy.
We will enjoy a gourmet outdoor lunch, gazing at the imposing Quelccaya Glacier and the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcanota Mountain Range on the horizon.
We continue our journey passing through the authentic village of Phinaya until we reach our camping area in Ruita. Before dinner, we will take a short exploratory walk under the golden light of the sunset.
We close the day with a hot dinner and a restful break in our camp, under one of the clearest and most starry skies on the planet.
- MEALS: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- ACCOMMODATION: Camping.
- TOTAL WALKING DISTANCE: 6 km / 3.73 miles.
- TOTAL WALKING TIME: 4 hours.
- DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate.
- MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft.
- MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft.
- CAMPSITE ELEVATION: 4,840 m / 15,879 ft
Ruita Camp | White Lagoon - Quelccaya - Cusco
Today, we will reach the "Diamond of the Mountains." We will wake up in the heart of the mountain range to hike towards the Quelccaya Glacier, the largest tropical glacier on the planet. It is a day of personal achievement, landscapes of "eternal ice," and a deep connection with the fragility and greatness of our natural world.
We begin the day with a comforting breakfast at our Ruita camp, surrounded by a silence only found in the high mountains. The sun illuminating the snow-capped peaks will mark the start of our trek.
Our first stop will be the White Lagoon (Laguna Blanca), a body of water with surreal transparency born directly from the glacial melt. Its crystal-clear waters perfectly reflect the ice walls we will explore next.
We begin the final ascent towards the imposing Quelccaya (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). Standing before this giant, also known as Challpa, is an experience that redefines your perspective of time. You will be able to appreciate its immense ice walls, blue crevasses, and, if conditions allow, the fascinating ice caves.
We will have enough time to explore the base of the glacier, feel the energy of the Apus (mountain spirits), and capture images that look like they belong on another planet. It is the perfect place for nature photography lovers.
After the visit, we will begin our descent back to our transport. We will enjoy one last lunch in the area before starting the journey back.
The return trip will allow us to rest and process what we have experienced while crossing the landscapes of the southern route once again. We will arrive in the city of Cusco at dusk, with the satisfaction of having conquered one of the most exclusive routes in Peru.
- MEALS: Breakfast, lunch.
- TOTAL WALKING DISTANCE: 7 km / 4.34 miles.
- TOTAL WALKING TIME: 5 hours.
- DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate.
- MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,840 m / 15,840 ft.
- MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 5,200 m / 17,060 ft.
What Is Included?
✔ Planning & Logistics
- Briefing: A personalized session the day before departure (6:00 p.m.) at your hotel or our office to coordinate details, weather, and safety.
- Courtesy Duffel Bag: We provide you with a duffel bag to pack up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings. Our horses will transport it for you, allowing you to walk carrying only the essentials.
- Permits & Entrance Fees: Management and payment of all necessary entrance fees for the route.
✔ Our Expert Team
- Bilingual Professional Guides: Certified local leaders with over 3 years of experience, experts in first aid and rescue, ready to share Andean history and culture.
- Mountain Chefs: Masters of Peruvian gastronomy who prepare nutritious and delicious menus, with options available for vegetarians and vegans.
✔ Trail Gastronomy (Energy & Flavor)
- Complete Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Buffet Lunches, and 1 Restorative Dinner.
- Andean Wake-Up: We start your morning with a comforting cup of coca tea served directly in your tent.
- Tea Time (Happy Hour): At the end of the day, enjoy hot drinks, snacks, and group stories.
- Trail Snacks: Fruits, chocolates, and cookies to keep your energy levels at their peak.
✔ Premium Camping (Comfort at Altitude)
- 4-Season Tents: High-mountain shelters designed to withstand wind, rain, and snow.
- Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pads: High-end inflatable sleeping pads that guarantee total thermal insulation from the ground.
- Complete Infrastructure: A spacious dining tent with tables and chairs, and a fully equipped kitchen tent run under strict hygiene standards.
✔ Transport & Safety
- Private Transport: Door-to-door service from your hotel in Cusco to the start of the route, and return upon completion.
- Constant Communication: Long-range radios for permanent coordination among the staff.
- Medical Safety: Comprehensive first-aid kit and a portable oxygen tank always available.
What Is Not Included?
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
We want to be completely transparent with your budget. The following additional services are available upon request:
- Professional Sleeping Bags ($10 USD): Mummy-style sleeping bags resistant to -18°C (0°F), carefully washed and disinfected after each use.
- Trekking Poles ($10 USD per pair): Highly recommended to protect your knees during descents and uneven terrain.
- Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend having an insurance policy that covers high-altitude activities above 4,000 m.a.s.l. (13,123 ft).
- Extra Expenses: Any costs derived from situations beyond our control (such as extreme weather, changes in government policies, or strikes).
- Tips (Gratuities): A voluntary gesture to appreciate the hard work of the guides, chefs, and horsemen who make this adventure possible.
Price per person:
- Private Service Price: US$ 300.00 per person. This private expedition has a guaranteed departure with a minimum of two passengers.
Price Guarantee Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase under any circumstances. Before booking, please ensure you have read all the important tour information.
CANCELLATION POLICIES
- Cancellation less than 24 hours before the trip: This will be considered a “No Show.” The deposit will not be refunded, as it covers the transportation reservation and the assigned guide’s fees.
- Voluntary abandonment: If you decide not to continue during the hike due to fatigue or illness, you may wait in the transport or at the local community. There will be no partial refunds for not reaching the edge of the glacier.
To ensure you enjoy the trek with complete freedom, at Bestreks we divide your luggage into two categories. This way, you will only carry the essentials during the day while our horses take care of the rest.
- In your Duffel Bag
- Sleeping bag: Essential for the cold Andean nights (you can rent a high-mountain one from us).
- Sleepwear: A complete thermal set (pants and long-sleeve shirt) to ensure a warm rest.
- Camp shoes: Lightweight sneakers or sandals to wear around camp and give your feet a rest.
- Spare clothes: 2 pairs of technical socks, underwear, and a change of t-shirt.
- Personal Hygiene: Wet wipes, toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant.
- Power: Portable charger (Powerbank), as there are no charging points on the mountain.
- Towel: Preferably microfiber due to its light weight and quick-drying properties.
- In your Daypack (With you on the trail) It should be a small, lightweight backpack (20-30 liters) with what you need close at hand.
- Hydration: At least 2 liters of water (Camelbak or reusable bottles).
- Layering System: A lightweight down jacket and a waterproof windbreaker (the weather in the Andes is unpredictable).
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, and sunglasses with UV protection.
- Cold weather accessories: A chullo (woolen beanie) and technical gloves for the glacier wind.
- Camera gear: Camera or smartphone with enough memory to capture the “Diamond of the Mountains.”
- Personal Snacks: Your favorite candies, chocolates, or energy bars for an extra motivation boost.
- Essentials: Original passport and cash (Soles) for small purchases in the local communities.
Bestreks Pro Tips
- Dress in layers: A breathable base layer close to the skin, a warm mid-layer (fleece/down), and a waterproof outer layer. This will allow you to easily regulate your body temperature.
- Smart Footwear: Never wear brand-new boots on an expedition like this. Make sure your trekking shoes are broken in (previously used) and water-resistant.
- Lighting: Don’t forget to include a headlamp in your backpack. It is vital for moving around inside your tent and the campsite once the sun goes down.
