Suyuparina Glacier | Tour to Suyuparina Glacier 1 day

SUYUPARINA GLACIER

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From$139$99
SHARED SERVICE (GROUP TOUR)
  • SHARED SERVICE (GROUP TOUR)Available: 10 seats
  • PRIVATE TOUR FOR 2 PEOPLE
  • PRIVATE TOUR FOR 3 PEOPLE
  • PRIVATE TOUR FOR 4 PEOPLE
  • PRIVATE TOUR FOR 5 PEOPLE
  • PRIVATE TOUR FOR 6 PEOPLE
  • PRIVATE TOUR FOR 7 PEOPLE
  • PRIVATE TOUR FOR 8 PEOPLE
  • PRIVATE TOUR FOR 9 PEOPLE +
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"The Ice Giant of the Vilcanota Range"

SUYUPARINA GLACIER

  • LOCATION: CUSCO, VILCANOTA ANDES MOUNTAINS.
  • DURATION: FULL DAY (from 3:00 Hrs. to 19:00 Hrs.
  • TOUR TYPE HIKING, ADVENTURE.
  • MAX. ALTITUDE: 5190 m / 17028 ft
  • HIGHLIGHTS: SIBINACOCHA LAKE, SUYUPARINA GLACIER
  • DIFFICULTY: MODERATE – CHALLENGING (Mainly due to altitude)

“Walking through the soul of the Andes is an experience that transcends words. Our full-day tour to the Suyuparina Glacier invites you to witness the raw power of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, the sacred territory of the great Apu Ausangate.

This region is home to some of Peru’s most impressive glaciers, such as Quelccaya and Suyuparina, where eternal ice meets the sky to create a sanctuary of peace and ancient energy.

As you traverse these high-altitude trails, you will pass one of Cusco’s largest glacial lakes and journey through vast valleys where local communities still live in perfect harmony with their alpacas and llamas. Today, Suyuparina stands as a hidden gem, offering an up-close encounter with towering ice walls and crystal-clear waters that reflect the absolute purity of the mountains.”

IMPORTANT:
We offer daily departures for the Suyuparina Glacier tour. However, due to the high elevation (over 5,190 m / 17,028 ft), it is a prerequisite that you spend at least one full day acclimatizing in Cusco before taking this trip. This is vital to avoid altitude sickness and ensure you enjoy the experience safely.

SHORT ITINERARY

DAY 1: Cusco – Phinaya – Suyuparina Glacier – Phinaya – Cusco.

SUYUPARINA GLACIER ROUTE MAP

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FULL ITINERARY

Cusco – Phinaya – Suyuparina Glacier – Cusco.

An Expedition to the World’s Largest Tropical Ice Cap

This is not your conventional tour; it is a journey into the heights of the Vilcanota Mountain Range to discover one of Cusco’s most impressive and least explored glacial lagoons.

🚐 03:00 AM | Departure from Cusco Pick-up from your hotel. We begin our journey heading south (Cusco-Puno road) to Sicuani, then take the detour towards Pitumarca. Since it is a long drive (approx. 5 hours), you can rest comfortably in the vehicle. The final stretch turns into a dirt road, offering unique landscapes filled with wild vicuñas and alpacas.

☕ 08:00 AM | Arrival in Phinaya & Breakfast We arrive at the village of Phinaya (4,700 m / 15,420 ft), an authentic community of alpaca herders at the foot of the glacier. Here, we will enjoy a hot, comforting breakfast to combat the cold and fuel up for the hike.

🏔️ 09:00 AM | Approach to the Glacier We board our transport again for a short ride (approx. 40-50 min) to the trailhead, getting as close as possible to the base of the Suyuparina Glacier (part of the massive Quelccaya Ice Cap).

🥾 10:00 AM | The Hike & Exploration We begin the trek. Depending on where the transport drops us off (varying by season/weather), the hike is relatively short (approx. 45 min to 1 hour) but intense due to the lack of oxygen.

  • The Destination: We arrive at the skirts of the Suyuparina Glacier.

  • The Experience: You will have free time to touch the snow, admire the lagoons, and—conditions permitting—enter the ice caves and glacial edges.

  • Free Time: You will have plenty of time to explore, meditate, take incredible photos with no crowds, and even make a small offering to the Pachamama (Mother Earth) if you wish.

🍽️ 12:30 PM | Lunch with a View After filling ourselves with the mountain’s energy, we descend to enjoy a comforting lunch (at a local spot depending on logistics). We will share stories of the trip and rest a bit. During the return drive, keep your eyes open for spectacular views of Lake Sibinacocha.

🚐 18:30 – 19:00 PM | Return to Cusco We begin the journey back to the city. Take this time to sleep and rest in our comfortable seats. We will drop you off near the Plaza de Armas or at your hotel, with your camera memory full and your heart content.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

🌟 YOUR EXPERIENCE INCLUDES:

  • Pre-departure Briefing: We welcome you to the Inka Time office one day prior to finalize details. If you cannot attend, we provide full support via WhatsApp.
  • Comfort from the Start: We pick you up directly from your hotel.
  • Reliable Transport: Travel safely in our private tourist minibuses (medium-sized groups of 13-18 people).
  • Local Gastronomy: Enjoy a breakfast to kickstart your day and a typical lunch to recharge your energy. Vegetarian or vegan? Just let us know!
  • Expert Guide: Constant accompaniment by a professional bilingual guide.
  • Safety Guaranteed: We are fully prepared with a first aid kit and oxygen tank for any situation.
  • Hiking Support: We provide wooden walking sticks to make your trek easier.
  • Entrance Fee Info: Please note payment is made directly at the checkpoint (S/ 15 Foreigners / S/ 10 Peruvians).

⚠️ THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND (NOT INCLUDED):

  • Personal Daypack: Don’t forget your water, warm jacket, and gloves.
  • Travel Insurance: Not included.

IMPORTANT

📌 KEY INFORMATION:

Our group tours to the Suyuparina Glacier are the perfect size for meeting new people and making friends (average 13-18 travelers). However, if you are looking for privacy for your family or group, contact us for a Private Tour quote. We have daily departures year-round!

🎒 ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST:

To enjoy the trek comfortably, make sure to bring the following:

  • Lightweight Daypack: Carry only the essentials so you can walk freely without extra weight.
  • Smart Layering: The mountain wind is cold and constant. Bring a windbreaker, fleece jacket, gloves, and a warm beanie (hat).
  • Sun Protection: The sun is much stronger at high altitude. A hat/cap, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are mandatory.
  • Comfortable Footwear: Hiking boots or sturdy trekking shoes with good grip are essential, as the terrain is uneven.
  • Extra Energy (Snacks): Since the drive is long, bring water, cookies, fruit, or lemon candies to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

PRICES

👥 SHARED GROUP SERVICE

This is our standard service where you will share the experience with other travelers (approx. group size: 13-18 people).

  • Traveling solo or as a couple? No worries! You don’t need to form a group yourself. We have confirmed daily departures, so you can easily join one of our existing groups.

🔥 SPECIAL SEASONAL OFFER:

Valid for travel between March 15th and January 15th.

Lock in this price now and travel on any date you choose!

BEST PRICE PER PERSON: US$ 99


💎 PRIVATE SERVICE TOUR (VIP)

Your trip, your rules. Choose the private option for a fully tailor-made experience. You will have the guide and transport exclusively at your disposal. This is perfect if you are traveling with children, seniors, or simply want to enjoy the scenery in silence and at your own pace.

Rates per person (Based on your group size):

Group Size Price per person
2 Travelers US$ 169 pp
3 Travelers US$ 160 pp
4 Travelers US$ 152 pp
5 Travelers US$ 143 pp
6 Travelers US$ 135 pp
7 Travelers US$ 126 pp
8 Travelers US$ 118 pp
9 Travelers + US$ 109 pp

HOW TO BOOK

📝 HOW TO BOOK IN 3 EASY STEPS:

STEP 1: Send us your details To get started, simply fill out the form on this page or email us at reservas@inkatimetours.com. We need the personal details of all travelers (or a photo of your Passports/IDs) and your preferred travel date.

  • Data Privacy: Rest assured, your data is 100% secure with us and is used solely to register official permits.

STEP 2: Secure your spot (Payment) To confirm this experience, 100% payment is required in advance.

  • Booking Online? Select your date and pay directly on this page.

  • Booking via Email? Choose one of the following options, and we will send you a secure payment link:

    • Credit/Debit Cards or PayPal: We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Amex (Note: A +6% transaction fee applies).

    • Western Union: International cash transfer (Note: Sender covers all transfer fees).

    • Bank Transfer / Digital Wallets (Peru Only): If you are in Peru or have a Peruvian bank account, you can transfer directly or use Yape/Plin.

STEP 3: Receive your Voucher All set!

  • If you paid online, your confirmation is automatic.
  • If you booked via email, we will send your official Service Voucher as soon as possible (usually within 8 hours during business hours).
  • Once you have this document, your adventure is fully confirmed!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION ABOUT SUYUPARINA GLACIER

❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

1. What is the maximum altitude, and do I need acclimatization? We will reach an approximate altitude of 5,190 meters (17,028 ft) above sea level. Due to the low oxygen levels at this elevation, it is mandatory to have spent at least 3 days in Cusco prior to this tour to properly acclimatize and avoid severe altitude sickness.

2. How difficult is the hike? The level is considered moderate to challenging. Although the hiking distance is short (approx. 20 to 30 minutes), the extreme altitude makes every step feel heavier and fatigue sets in quickly. Technical mountaineering experience is not required, but good physical fitness and a healthy heart are essential.

3. How much time will we spend traveling in the transport? This is an expedition to a remote and pristine area. The drive takes approximately 5 hours each way (10 hours total). Part of the journey is on paved roads, while the final stretch toward Phinaya is on a dirt road, which allows us to see authentic landscapes and wild fauna far away from mass tourism.

4. Is it very cold? What clothes should I bring? Yes, we will be at the foot of a glacier. The weather is freezing and windy. We recommend using the layering system:

  • Base Layer: Thermal shirt.

  • Mid Layer: Fleece jacket or sweater.

  • Outer Layer: Windbreaker and waterproof jacket (ideally a down jacket).

  • Mandatory Accessories: Wool beanie (hat), thick gloves, scarf, and hiking boots.

5. Is it suitable for children or seniors? Due to the extreme altitude (over 5,000 m / 16,400 ft) and the long travel duration, we do not recommend this tour for children under 12 or adults over 60, unless they have excellent physical fitness and proven prior experience with high-altitude hiking. It is not suitable for people with heart or respiratory problems.

6. What type of food is offered? Are there vegetarian options? Breakfast and lunch are served in the community of Phinaya. These are home-cooked meals, prepared with hygiene and warmth (usually hot soups, trout, native potatoes, etc.). If you have any dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, allergies), please let us know when booking so we can arrange a special option for you.

7. Are there bathrooms available on the route? We will find basic toilet facilities in the community of Phinaya (where we have breakfast and lunch). During the road trip and the hike to the glacier, there are no bathrooms. We recommend using the facilities in the village to avoid polluting or damaging the pristine nature of the area.

8. When is the best time to go? The best season is during the dry season (April to October), when there is less chance of rain and snow, offering clear views of the glacier and lagoons. During the rainy season (December to March), the route may be cloudy or have restricted access due to snow on the road.

9. Do you carry emergency oxygen? Yes, safety is our priority. All our guides carry an oxygen tank and a first aid kit to assist any passenger showing symptoms of altitude sickness (soroche).

10. How is this tour different from Rainbow Mountain? Unlike Rainbow Mountain, which receives thousands of tourists daily, the Suyuparina Glacier is an exclusive and almost private route. Here, you will not see crowds. Furthermore, the main attraction is the snow, ice, and crystal-clear lagoons, offering a more dramatic and solitary high-mountain landscape.

Efficient, thorough, very thoughtful tour company

This was one of the most organized tours I have ever been on. Always on time and the tour activities were well thought through and well planned. Every single tour guide was knowledgeable, helpful and carried everyone along. To add, they were very patient and still on time every single time. Quite impressive. I will recommend them over and over again.

“
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“Customer satisfaction is our greatest pride. See what travelers are saying about their experience with INKA TIME”

  • Thank you very much Inka Time for all the attention you gave us, we enjoyed the tours very much, thanks for your punctuality and for being attentive all the time to our needs as travellers!
    We liked very much that at all times we were accompanied, and that we did not have to worry about anything…. read more
    brenda m
    1/05/2024
  • I contacted InkaTime and told them I have a 1 week holiday and I want to see all the wonders of Cusco and its surroundings. They immediately contacted me and helped me organize my trip, I arrived in Cusco and everything went as planned, very responsible since they went to pick me up at the airport, all tours a 7, they are punctual, responsible and very concerned I think my experience in Cusco was…. read more

    jose j
    20/04/2024
  • Our entire 7 day trip was organised by inka time. All the trips were very organized, punctual, the hotels were very nice and clean. We had a very nice experience thanks to the professionalism of Mauro and his Inka tour team. Our guide Joel from machu pichu made our experience very nice and…. read more

    Alejandra G
    17/04/2024
  • Thank you very much for making this experience an unforgettable adventure. ❤️ thank you INKA TIME. Thank you for being so professional and kind. We were happy with everything you managed. Highly recommended.

    Mauro, John, Clever, Carla, Naysha and others. Sincerely. Scarlet, Natalia and Ani… read more

    7Scarlet Sandoval
    13/04/2024
  • Great adventure, 100% recommended. We had a wonderful experience on each of the tours with Inka Time Tours. Elvis was an excellent guide in Machu Picchu, as was Fio. I especially want to thank Mauro and the whole Inka Time Tours team, we hope to come back soon!…. read more

    alfredo v
    05/04/2024
  • An incredible experience! Without a doubt 100×100% recommendable. They are in every detail. Their guides, magnificent, make you feel like you are part of the place…. read more

    Ariel
    02/03/2024
  • Good service. The Inka Time team was super punctual and professional. The guides answered all our questions and were always willing to help. Thank you… read more

    olger j
    13/03/2024
  • Excellent experience our trip to Peru, the agency was very clear with the information from the first approach, the day before arriving in Cusco attentive to us, as well as daily with the tours (activities and accommodation), fulfilled the schedules and what they offer. The guides were friendly, with good information and a good command of English. Recommended … read more

    Rafa L
    28/03/2024
  • Great experience, we did 2 activities with them: Sacred Valley + Machupichu and Coloured Mountain + Red Valley. We were very satisfied and happy with the service, the guides, the organization… we will definitely recommend them. It has always been very easy to communicate with them. We hope we can come back to Peru and we know that we can count on them for tours…. read more

    bea_lunae
    15/03/2024
  • Very nice, I love it! I would come back many times and with the agency I felt very safe.

    Take a lot of space in your phones because the photos are amazing!!! Beautiful place, it’s worth going, and have a lot of fun, know the culture is wonderful… read more

    Mercedes L
    05/03/2024
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