From Huaraz: Tour to the Pastoruri Glacier and Puya Raimondi

Exploring the stunning Pastoruri Glacier and the unique Puya Raimondi flora is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Huaraz. This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable experience, with round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and admission fees included. Travelers can expect breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca, a scenic hike, and the chance to enjoy the region’s natural wonders. Whether you’re looking to marvel at the glacier or learn about the rare Puya Raimondi plants, this tour promises a day filled with…

Key Points

• The tour departs from Huaraz and lasts approximately 9.5 hours, covering scenic views of the Cordillera Blanca, Pato Cocha Lagoon, and Puyas Raimondi flora.
• The tour includes a 1-hour hike to the Pastoruri Glacier, with round-trip transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and admission fees provided.
• Booking is hassle-free, with no upfront payment required and a flexible cancellation policy allowing for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
• Guests should wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and bring layers of clothing, rain gear, sun protection, and altitude sickness medication.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the hiking involved, but it has received positive feedback on the tour guide quality and transportation reliability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour, called "Pastoruri Glacier and Puya Raimondi", departs from Huaraz and lasts 9.5 hours.

It’s priced from $31.85 to $35.00 per person, with availability varying by start time.

Highlights include scenic views of the Cordillera Blanca, a visit to Pato Cocha Lagoon, the carbonated Puma Pampa, the impressive Puyas Raimondi flora, and a 1-hour hike to the Pastoruri Glacier.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and admission fees.

It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers should bring comfortable shoes and rain gear.

Booking Information

Reserving the tour is simple – no upfront payment is required.

Simply book now and pay later. The cancellation policy is traveler-friendly, too – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, no questions asked.

The tour includes pickup from your Huaraz hotel, so you just need to wait in the lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

This hands-off booking process makes planning your glacier and Puya Raimondi adventure hassle-free.

Just sit back, relax, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Peru’s stunning Cordillera Blanca.

Itinerary Highlights

Pickup begins in Huaraz between 8:30 and 9:15 AM, commencing the day’s scenic tour.

First, the group will visit Parco for stunning views of the Cordillera Blanca.

Next, they’ll stop at Pato Cocha Lagoon, home to wild ducks.

The tour then proceeds to Puma Pampa, the source of carbonated water, before reaching the impressive Puyas Raimondi flora.

Finally, the group will hike for 1 hour to the Pastoruri Glacier, starting from the Pumapashimin Lagoon.

After the hike, a post-tour lunch will be served at a tourist restaurant before returning to Huaraz between 6:30 and 7:00 PM.

Tour Features

As part of the tour, a live guide provides commentary in both English and Spanish.

Transportation is included, allowing for seamless travel between the various stops.

Seamless travel between various stops is facilitated through the inclusion of transportation.

The admission ticket, priced at S/30 (US$ 8), grants access to the Pastoruri Glacier and Puya Raimondi locations.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the hiking involved.

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Customer Feedback

Based on 39 reviews, travelers have given the tour an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Reviewers praised the quality of the tour guide, rating them 5/5 on average. The transportation also received positive feedback, earning a 4.4/5 rating.

However, some felt the tour could offer better value for money, with a 3.8/5 rating in this area.

This tour appeals to a range of travelers, including couples, friends, solo adventurers, and families.

Feedback highlights the tour’s strengths, such as the knowledgeable guide and reliable transportation, while also identifying areas for potential improvement.

What to Bring

To fully enjoy your tour to the Pastoruri Glacier, it’s recommended to bring a few essential items.

Bring a few essential items to fully enjoy your tour to the Pastoruri Glacier.

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for hiking. Pack layers of clothing, including a warm jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains.

Bring rain gear in case of unexpected showers. Don’t forget sun protection like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated during the hike. If you’re prone to altitude sickness, consider bringing altitude sickness medication.

A small backpack or daypack can help carry your belongings comfortably.

Tour Duration and Availability

The Pastoruri Glacier and Puya Raimondi tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, departing from Huaraz. This full-day excursion allows visitors to explore the stunning natural wonders of the Cordillera Blanca region. The tour is available, subject to check for starting times.

Key points to consider:

1. The tour runs from approximately 8:30 AM to 6:30-7:00 PM, providing ample time to experience the highlights.

2. Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

3. Pickup from your Huaraz hotel is included, ensuring a convenient start to your adventure.

Visiting the Pastoruri Glacier and Puya Raimondi

After being picked up from their Huaraz hotel, visitors embark on the scenic drive towards the Pastoruri Glacier and Puya Raimondi.

The first stop is the Parco area, offering stunning views of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range.

Next, they visit the Pato Cocha Lagoon, home to wild ducks.

At Puma Pampa, they’ll see the source of carbonated water.

The highlight is the Puyas Raimondi – an impressive flora unique to the region.

Finally, they reach the Pumapashimin Lagoon, the starting point for the 1-hour hike to the Pastoruri Glacier.

After the hike, a lunch stop at a tourist restaurant awaits before returning to Huaraz.

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Glacier and Flowers?

The best time to visit the glacier and flowers is during the dry season from May to September. Temperatures are mild, and the abundant flora, including the iconic Puya Raimondi, is in full bloom during this period.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour information does not mention a private tour option. The tour appears to be a group experience, with transportation and a live guide provided. Private tours may be available upon request, but are not explicitly listed in the details provided.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hike?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for young children or the elderly due to the moderate difficulty of the 1-hour hike to the Pastoruri Glacier. Participants should be in decent physical condition.

Can We Stop for Photos Along the Way?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops along the way. The guide will provide ample opportunities for participants to take photos at the scenic spots, such as the Pato Cocha Lagoon and the Puyas Raimondi.

How Difficult Is the Hike to the Glacier?

The hike to the Pastoruri Glacier is a moderate 1-hour trek suitable for most travelers. It involves some uphill sections, but the path is well-maintained, and the stunning glacier views make the effort worthwhile.

Sum Up

This tour from Huaraz to the Pastoruri Glacier and Puya Raimondi flora offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of the Cordillera Blanca. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all admission fees included, it’s an affordable and convenient way to take in the region’s breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour is not to be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: