Plan exploreInca Trail to Machu Picchu
A guide to the endangered pastoruri glacier
a guide to the endangered pastoruri glacierThe Pastoruri Glacier is one of the last standing glaciers in tropical South America. Unfortunately, it is retreating at such a pace that it technically cannot be defined as a glacier anymore, as it is no longer building up ice during the winter. You can reach Pastoruri by means of Huaraz, the perfect town for trekking the Andes. Visiting Pastoruri Glacier is one of the most popular day trips from Huaraz, and for good reason. The trek is a thing of pure beauty. From the striking white snow-capped mountains reflected on the lake, to the lush landscapes you traverse to reach the glacier, It is a trek you need to put on your bucket list (and soon!). Here, we will give you an overview of what you need to bring with you, the difficulty of the hike, and what you can see along the way!
Coming prepared is a vital part of thoroughly enjoying a trek. Be sure to bring a comfortable daypack for the tour, and carry a decent amount of water and some snacks with you. Sunscreen is a necessity even on cloudy days, as altitude amplifies the sun’s effects on our skin. A windproof and waterproof jacket will help keep you warm and protect you from the elements. Layers are always a great idea as the weather can vary between sun, rain, wind, and snow. Wearing layers allows you to adjust your wardrobe according to the weather on the day of your visit. Depending on the season, it is a smart idea to throw some gloves and a beanie into your bag as well.
The trek itself is not too arduous, although the altitude might be considered its most challenging aspect. The glacier lies 5,000 meters above sea level, so coming already acclimatized is ideal. It takes about an hour to walk the kilometer to the glacier from the trailhead. The incline is only about 150 meters, but at 5,000 meters, it can be strenuous for those not used to such high elevations. If you do find yourself struggling, there is an option to ride a horse halfway up and walk the remainder.
Along the journey, you will see incredible flora and fauna and views that will leave you breathless (or wait, is that the altitude?) You will have the chance to observe the impressive Puya Raimondi plant, belonging to the Bromeliad family. This plant, which can reach up to 15 meters, is nicknamed the “Queen of the Andes,” and can only be found in the high Andes of Peru or Bolivia. You will pass by Patococha Lake and admire the various birds that call this lake home.
The Pastoruri Glacier is an incredible sight to see. Unfortunately, experts estimate that this glacier will only be around for another ten years or so, barring a comprehensive fix for global warming . You won’t want to wait to book your trip. Reach out to our team today, and start planning to see the incredible Pastoruri Glacier before It’s gone for good.
Plan exploreDestino Cusco
this season featured experiences
HIKING&TREKKING
inca trail to machu picchuThis 5-day journey begins at Km 82, the marker that signifies the start of the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our highly trained guides, who are deeply familiar with these ancient Inca footpaths, will expertly lead us through the magnificent Andean terrain. Along the way, we’ll traverse breathtaking high alpine passes, lush valleys, dense cloud forests, and rushing rivers. We’ll pass through ancient Inca remains of Andean settlements, ultimately arriving at Machu Picchu via Inti Punku (the Sun Gate). Each night, our team of porters and skilled cooks will have a delicious hot meal and a comfortable camp already set up for your convenience. Since we highly value sustainable tourism, we’ll have very little impact on the land, communities, and environment we encounter along the trail, and we will also take steps to enjoy a tranquil hike, avoiding crowds of fellow trekkers. On the final day, a guided tour of the citadel will bring Machu Picchu to life, as we explore and immerse ourselves in the magic and beauty of this ancient, mystical site. Our version of the Inca trail to Machu Picchu trek is truly an unforgettable experience you’ll reminisce about for years to come.
March - December
5 days / 4 nights
From
$ 1290
/ Per PersonHIKING&TREKKING
huayhuash trekThe Huayhuash Trek is an amazing journey to the very heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash, the second highest tropical mountain range in the world. A trekker's paradise, this terrain is remote, wild, and stunningly beautiful. The film Touching the Void, the tale of climbers Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, was made about their harrowing experience as the first mountaineers to scale Siula Grande, which is part of this mountain range. This version of the Huayhuash trek crosses six high passes over 4500 m (14,763 ft) and two that are higher than 5000 m (16,404 ft)! Throughout the 12 days of the trek, we camp next to stunningly beautiful alpine lakes and in broad, grassy valleys replete with wildflowers and rushing alpine creeks, while basking in the imposing presence of the White Mountains looming over us, with peaks at elevations above 5000 m (16,404 ft) and 6000 m (19,685 ft). At least three days of acclimatization hikes in the area are strongly recommended to be able to enjoy the trek.
April - October
12 days / 11 nights
From
$ 1750
/ Per PersonHIKING&TREKKING
ancascocha trek & the short inca trailNational Geographic Magazine has rated this Inca Trail alternative trek as one of the top hikes in the world! This Ancascocha Trek & the Short Inca Trail is truly the road less traveled by, for those who crave time away from crowds, amidst the beauty of nature. The journey begins at the Parpishu Footbridge and ascends amidst the dramatic backdrop of Mts. Salkantay and Verónica. Crossing through rugged terrain, remote mountain communities, ancient ruins, and diverse ecosystems for around 37 km (23 mi), the trek culminates at the village of Camicancha, near Km 77 on the railroad tracks to Machu Picchu. On day 4, we will board the train to Km 104 to walk along the pathway that covers the final stretch of the Inca Trail, where you will have a taste of the famous longer Inca Trail hike, and the thrill of entering Machu Picchu through Inti Punku, the Gate of the Sun. On our last day of the Ancascocha Trek & the Short Inca Trail, we will spend time exploring Machu Picchu, one of the ancient wonders of the world.
March - December
5 days / 4 nights
From
$ 1290
/ Per PersonHIKING&TREKKING
running the inca trails - choquequirao to machu picchuOn this run, we will traverse an incredible Inca highway consisting of over 125 km (77.7 mi) of ancient roads. The activities include trail running, enjoying the tranquility of nature, and exploring two amazing and enigmatic archaeological sites. We will cross through highly varied terrain of diverse ecosystems: from majestic rivers at 1500 masl (4921 fasl) to high mountain passes at 4650 masl (15,256 fasl); from tropical rainforests to imposing glaciers; from the territory of the endangered spectacled bear to the skyways of majestic condors in flight; all combining to make this a unique and memorable experience. The route begins in the town of Capuliyoc and passes through the famous archaeological complex of Choquequirao. We’ll visit small villages along the route, running lightly over intact Inca paths winding through the mountains, and ending at the mystical ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
April - November
8 days / 7 nights
From
$ 2310
/ Per Person