Pastoruri Glacier - Full day

Our day excursion begins with pick-up from your hotel in Huaraz in private or group transportation (around 8:30–9:00 a.m.). We then drive south along the main road toward Lima as far as Pachacoto. From there, we leave the highway and enter a broad glacial valley bordered by low, grass-covered moraine walls. Continuing along a dirt road through this wide and striking valley, we pass small lakes and marshlands. Along the way, we stop at a mineral spring that is easy to spot due to its reddish coloration—caused by a high iron content—and the absence of surrounding vegetation, affected by the natural minerals present in the water.

The first Puya Raimondi plants appear just before the junction of the Raria and Pumapampa valleys. These rare endemic plants, when in bloom, display thousands of flowers arranged in a striking spiral formation. Found near the roadside, they provide an excellent opportunity for memorable photos.

Puya Raimondi, a member of the bromeliad (pineapple) family, is a truly remarkable plant, producing more than 18,000 flowers and up to 6 million seeds. It blooms only once in its lifetime—typically between 50 and 100 years—after which the plant dies. Near the Puya Raimondi stands a colorful shallow lake, locally known as “Puma Mouth,” adding to the scenic beauty of the area. From here, we continue driving through a deeply U-shaped valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you may spot rock paintings on overhanging cliff faces.

Finally, at around 4,800 meters, the landscape becomes increasingly rocky. After turning right, we enter a cirque-shaped valley, where the ice cap of Pastoruri comes into view. The journey ends at the parking area, located at approximately 4,900 meters above sea level.

From the parking area, we begin a gradual hike of around 50 minutes to reach the Pastoruri Glacier. The trail on the right can be followed either on foot or by horse. Upon arrival, you’ll be rewarded with impressive views of the glacier’s formation. Like many glaciers in the Cordillera Blanca, Pastoruri features an upper snow-covered field with large crevasses, where the ice cascades down from steeper slopes. In areas where the ice fractures, you can clearly see its layered structure, reflecting different periods of accumulation and melting associated with seasonal changes.

You may also observe small penitentes on the glacier’s surface—thin, blade-like ice formations created by melting and sublimation due to variations in sunlight exposure and surface conditions.

After spending approximately 30 minutes at the glacier, we return to the parking area and begin our journey back to Huaraz, arriving at approximately 17:30–18:00 pm.

Optional: Horse and mule services are available for those who prefer not to hike up to the glacier. You can rent a horse or mule to reach near the glacier area more comfortably.

Please note that this service is not included in the tour price and must be paid directly on site. The average cost is around 25 soles per person, one way.