The Quelccaya Peru Glacier (“Glaciar Quelccaya” in Spanish) is located in the Vilcanota Mountain Range, between the regions of Cusco and Puno, in southern Peru. Its highest point has an altitude of  5650 m.a.s.l. (18536 f.a.s.l.). It is the largest tropical glacier in the world. It is also known as the Quelccaya Ice Cap (“Quelccaya Capa de Hielo” in Spanish).

This glacier has been affected by global warming. During the last 3 decades, Quelccaya has lost almost 31% of its mass. According to Mathias Vuille, an expert from the University of Albany, the Quelccaya glacier is in great danger due to the changes in global climate. If the average global temperature continues to rise, the glacier could completely disappear during the mid 21st century. 

The Quelccaya Glacier provides water to the Vilcanota river and the Sibinacocha lagoon. Its surroundings are perfect for admiring the beauty of the Andean mountains. Some small communities inhabit the area around Quelccaya. Their main economic activity is the alpaca and llama breeding.

On this trek, you will explore the tropical Andes on your way to the Quelccaya Glacier. In the span of three days, you will be visiting the stunning landscapes that surround this one of a kind glacier. The tropical ice caps that dot the route are the perfect background for taking photographs. 

We recommend you to visit the Quelccaya Glacier during the dry season, from April to October. Between these months, the trail to Quelccaya is safer to walk on, due to the lack of rain. Explore this beautiful destination in the Andes of Peru with us.

Why Inkanto Travel?

We are a local travel agency which offers tours to the region of Cusco, in Perú. Our guides are experts in the history of the Inca sites of the region. We also offer the Sacred Valley 1 Day Cusco tour and the 4 day trek to Machu Picchu. Join us in our Quelcccaya Ice Cap Trek from Cusco.