Pastoruri Glacier Tour from Huaraz
Walk up to a glacier at 5,200 m in Huascarán National Park.
Overview
The Pastoruri Glacier tour from Huaraz is the most accessible way to actually set foot on a real glacier in the Cordillera Blanca. Located in the southern sector of Huascarán National Park, the glacier viewpoint sits at around 5,200 m, reached after a short trail of roughly 1 to 2 km. It's a unique experience for anyone who dreams of eternal snow without having to commit to a long trekking route.
Along the way you'll enjoy unforgettable Andean scenery: the Puya Raimondi forests (the tallest giant bromeliad in the world) and natural mineral springs. Pastoruri is also a retreating glacier, a living witness to climate change that is well worth seeing today. It's a full-day excursion, ideal for combining adventure, nature and a touch of environmental awareness.
Highlights
- Walk on the ice of a glacier at ~5,200 m
- Puya Raimondi forests, the giant bromeliad
- Natural mineral springs along the route
- Southern sector of Huascarán National Park
- Short, accessible trail (~1-2 km)
- Full-day excursion from Huaraz
Itinerary
- 8:00 AM
Pickup in Huaraz
We pick you up at your hotel or lodging in Huaraz and set off south toward the Pastoruri sector.
- 9:30 AM
Breakfast and Andean countryside
A short stop along the road for breakfast (optional) and to enjoy the rural landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca.
- 10:30 AM
Puya Raimondi forest
We visit the Puya Raimondi area, the tallest giant bromeliad in the world, with time for photos.
- 11:15 AM
Mineral springs
We stop at the naturally carbonated mineral springs, a geological curiosity of the area.
- 12:00 PM
Arrival at the glacier area
We reach the trailhead at high altitude. Take your time to acclimatise before the walk.
- 12:30 PM
Walk to Pastoruri Glacier
We follow the short trail (~1-2 km) to the glacier viewpoint at ~5,200 m, moving slowly due to the altitude.
- 2:00 PM
Free time and lunch
Enjoy the glacier, take photos and head back to the meeting point for lunch (optional) before the return.
- 5:30 PM
Return to Huaraz
We begin the journey back, arriving in Huaraz in the late afternoon.
What's included
- Round-trip transport from Huaraz
- Experienced local guide
- Visit to the Puya Raimondi and the springs
- Route and stop coordination
- Assistance throughout the tour
Not included
- Huascarán National Park entrance fee
- Breakfast and lunch
- Poles or equipment rental (oxygen available separately)
- Tips and personal expenses
What to bring
- Warm layered clothing and a windbreaker
- Hat, gloves and scarf
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Trekking shoes or comfortable footwear
- Water and energy snacks
- Cap and rain poncho
- Camera
Frequently asked questions
How hard is the Pastoruri tour?
The walk is short (~1-2 km) but is considered moderate because of the altitude, since the glacier sits at around 5,200 m. You move at an easy pace and no trekking experience is required.
Do I need to be acclimatised?
Yes, we recommend spending at least one or two days in Huaraz before the tour to adapt to the altitude and enjoy the experience more.
How long does the tour last?
It's a full-day excursion, around 9 to 10 hours in total including travel, stops and the walk to the glacier.
Is it suitable for children and older adults?
Yes, as it is a short trail it is one of the most accessible excursions in the area. You simply move slowly due to the altitude and should check any medical conditions beforehand.
How much does the Pastoruri tour cost?
From S/ 50 per person. The final price is confirmed via WhatsApp depending on group size and the services included.
What else will we see besides the glacier?
Along the way we visit the Puya Raimondi forests, the tallest giant bromeliad in the world, and natural mineral springs.
