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
the hidden valleys of salkantayStarting from a little-known valley near Limatambo, we ascend gradually over two days past ancient forests and varied Andean landscapes toward the Cruzjasa Pass at 4,550 meters / 14,927 feet above sea level. Here we will experience the best views of the south and east faces Mount Salkantay, away from the crowds. We descend along a gradual decline toward Mirador Pampaccahuana, accompanied by views of Mount Salkantay and its moraine until we reach Cusichaca Valley, which marks the eastern boundary of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary. As we approach the Sacred Valley, we will begin to see trekkers embarking on the first stretch of famous Inca Trail as we continue our hike downhill toward our private campsite at Chamana. Before finally reaching the Valley floor, we will take a detour to explore Wayna Q’ente and Machu Q’ente, two majestic Inca sites recently restored by the Ministry of Culture which showcase some of the finest Inca terracing and landscaping in the region. Our hike ends at the valley floor where we will be picked up and transported to Ollantaytambo in time to catch the afternoon train to Machu Picchu.
April - December
5 days / 4 nights
From
$ 1290
/ Per PersonHIKING & TREKKING
llama trekking on the north great inca trail
Embark on a journey through time as you explore one of the best-preserved portions of the Great Inca trail that connected Cusco, the ancient ceremonial capital of the Inca Empire, with Tomebamba, her northern sister city that is modern-day Cuenca, Ecuador. Explore over 70 km. of the main artery of the greatest road network in Pre-Columbian Latin America, speckled with archaeological sites in the remote landscapes of Northern Peru’s Central Andes. We’ll begin with a visit to Chavín de Huantar, a mysterious temple where ancient religious ceremonies took place over 3,000 years ago. We will immerse in diverse natural landscapes, crossing the Continental Divide and trek across two departments: Ancash and Huánuco, experiencing amazing vistas along the journey. On our last day we’ll arrive at Huánuco Pampa, the largest Inca administrative center outside the department of Cusco where we’ll marvel at feats of engineering achieved by a civilization whose abilities with stonecutting and placement remain unmatched to this day. This amazing trek will challenge, delight, and inspire you.
April - October
6 days / 5 nights
From
$ 1700
/ Per Person