Pastoruri Glacier Full Day Tour from Huaraz

The Pastoruri Glacier, located in the southern part of the impressive Cordillera Blanca, is one of the most iconic sites inside Huascarán National Park, declared a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1985. Although it is no longer considered an advancing glacier, Pastoruri has become a living symbol of climate change and a natural classroom where visitors can witness first-hand how nature continues to transform.

During this full-day tour from Huaraz, you will travel along the famous “Climate Change Route,” visiting key points such as the Carbonated Water Spring, the giant Puya Raimondii—found only in the Andes—and finally the glacier viewpoint at 5,001 m (16,404 ft). The hike is short and accessible, ideal for families, curious travelers, and photography lovers.

Along the way, you will enjoy high-altitude landscapes, snow-capped peaks, newly formed lagoons created by glacial retreat, and exposed moraines that silently tell thousands of years of geological history. More than just a day trip, it is an educational experience that reflects on the importance of protecting Andean ecosystems.

Top 5 Highlights of the Pastoruri Glacier Tour

The Climate Change Route: Visit one of the few places in Peru where you can directly observe glacial retreat and the impacts of climate change in the Andes.
Close-up view of Pastoruri Glacier: Reach the base of the glacier at 5,001 m (16,404 ft), surrounded by spectacular high-mountain scenery.
Puya Raimondii Forest: Admire the world’s largest bromeliad, known for reaching up to 10 meters tall and living for more than 100 years.
Easy hike for everyone: A safe and accessible route—perfect for families and travelers with no trekking experience.
Nature and education combined: Learn about geology, climate, and high-Andean ecosystems inside Huascarán National Park.

Detailed Itinerary
Included & Not Included
Prices & Availability

Itinerary – Pastoruri Glacier Full Day Tour

Day 01: Huaraz – Patococha – Carbonated Water Springs – Puya Raimondii – Pastoruri Glacier – Return to Huaraz

Your day begins at 8:30 a.m., when we pick you up from your hotel or the designated meeting point. From Huaraz, we head south along the road that borders the Cordillera Blanca, offering spectacular views of the Andes, wide valleys, and snow-capped peaks. The route passes through the traditional towns of Recuay, Ticapampa, and Catac, marking the beginning of the famous “Climate Change Route.”

Our first stop is Patococha, also known as “Duck Lagoon.” This small wetland is a sanctuary for high-Andean bird species, where you can observe wild ducks surrounded by golden grasslands and mountains. After taking some photos, we continue to one of the most surprising places on the route: the Carbonated Water Springs of Puma Pampa, where natural, mineral-rich water rises to the surface in bubbling streams. From here, you can also enjoy one of the best viewpoints of Mount Mururaju.

The trip continues toward the mystical Pumapashimi Lagoon, popularly known as the “Seven-Color Spring.” Its colors shift throughout the day depending on the sunlight, creating a unique effect that has inspired local legends about rainbows and their connection to this place.

We then enter an area of high-Andean flora where we visit the impressive Puya Raimondii, the largest bromeliad in the world, capable of growing over 10 meters tall. Seeing it up close is truly an amazing experience and a testament to the strength of Andean biodiversity.

Finally, we reach the Pastoruri Glacier base camp, located at an altitude of 5,001 m (16,404 ft). From here, a gentle walk of about 40 minutes takes you to the base of the glacier, where you can observe moraines, newly formed glacial lakes, and visible signs of glacier retreat. If you prefer, you can ride part of the trail on horseback (optional, extra cost).

After visiting the glacier, we begin our return journey and stop in the town of Ticapampa for a restorative lunch. We then continue back to Huaraz, arriving in the late afternoon and closing a day full of nature, history, and unforgettable landscapes.

Includes

Pickup from your accommodation within downtown Huaraz.
Round-trip tourist transportation in an authorized vehicle.
Professional tour guide (Spanish-speaking).
Return and drop-off in downtown Huaraz at the end of the tour.
First-aid kit for basic assistance along the route.

Not Included

Entrance fee to Huascarán National Park: Non-residents in Peru: S/ 30, Peruvian residents: S/ 12, Children: S/ 5.
Personal food and beverages.
Lunch in Ticapampa (optional): approximately S/ 30 per person.