Huaraz: Nevado Pastoruri Glacier | Snowy Full Day Tour

The "Huaraz: Nevado Pastoruri Glacier | Snowy Full Day Tour" promises an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking Andean landscape. For just $35 per person, you’ll embark on an 8-hour journey filled with stunning scenery, a guided hike to the mesmerizing Pastoruri Glacier, and the chance to witness the impact of climate change on this natural wonder. With convenient hotel pickup, a knowledgeable guide, and all inclusions covered, this tour offers an immersive experience that’ll leave you in awe of the region’s natural beauty. As you explore the Andes, you’ll uncover the intriguing stories and challenges that shape this extraordinary environment.

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores the Pastoruri Glacier in the Andes, showcasing stunning natural landscapes and the effects of global warming on the glacier.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, lunch, and local entrance fees, all for a reasonable price of $35 per person.
• Participants can expect scenic stops, visits to lakes and unique flora, and a 1-hour walk to the Pastoruri Glacier, the highlight of the tour.
• While the tour is highly rated for its scenic beauty, some reviews mention it can feel rushed, and non-Spanish speakers may face a language barrier.
• Travelers are advised to pack appropriate gear, such as comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and rain gear, to fully enjoy the day’s activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Huaraz: Nevado Pastoruri Glacier | Snowy Full Day Tour," is priced from $35.00 per person and lasts for 8 hours. It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows customers to reserve now and pay later. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a Spanish-speaking guide, transportation, permanent assistance, food, and local entrance fees. Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, rain gear, and insect repellent. The tour operator provides information on the excursion via WhatsApp and email the day before departure.

Itinerary Highlights

Pickup from hotel in Huaraz kicks off this scenic tour, which then transports guests by bus/coach for 1.5 hours through the stunning Andes landscape.

Along the way, the tour makes scenic stops at Recuay, Ticapampa, and Catac, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

Along the way, the tour makes scenic stops at Recuay, Ticapampa, and Catac, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

The journey continues to the Pachacoto Gorge and PatoCocha lagoon, home to wild ducks.

Next, the tour explores the vibrant Umapashimin lake and the towering Puya Raimondi plant.

The highlight is a 1-hour walk to the Pastoruri Glacier, where guests can marvel at the ice walls and observe the effects of global warming.

Lunch is provided in Catac before the return to Huaraz.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes pickup and drop-off at the guest’s hotel in Huaraz. A professional guide accompanies the group, providing commentary in Spanish.

The tour also provides:

1. Comfortable transportation to and from the glacier site.

2. Permanent assistance throughout the excursion.

3. All necessary entrance fees to parks and protected areas.

Lunch in Catac is included as well, providing sustenance during the day’s adventures.

With these thoughtful inclusions, guests can focus on seeing the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Pastoruri Glacier without having to worry about logistics.

Important Information for Participants

Guests planning to participate in the Huaraz: Nevado Pastoruri Glacier Tour will want to pack the essentials for a day of exploring the stunning landscapes. Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are musts, as is sunscreen and rain gear in case of inclement weather. Insect repellent and snacks/drinks are also recommended.

| What to Bring | Why |

| — | — |

| Comfortable Shoes | For hiking and walking on uneven terrain |

| Sunglasses & Hat | To protect from the sun’s glare |

| Snacks & Drinks | To stay energized during the long day |

Communication about the tour’s organization will be sent via WhatsApp and email the day prior to departure, ensuring participants are well-informed.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers who’ve experienced the Huaraz: Nevado Pastoruri Glacier Tour have provided mixed feedback.

While the tour guide received a perfect 5/5 rating, the overall value for money was only 2/5.

The main points from customer reviews include:

1. Language proficiency: Some guests noted the guide’s Spanish-only skills made the tour less accessible for non-Spanish speakers.

2. Pacing: A few reviews mentioned the tour felt rushed, leaving little time to fully experience the glacier and surrounding landscapes.

3. Overall experience: Despite the mixed opinions, the tour maintains a solid 4.3/5 rating, indicating most travelers enjoyed the scenic highlights.

Scenic Stops Along the Way

As the tour departs Huaraz, travelers are treated to a scenic journey through the Andes. The first stop is Recuay, a quaint town nestled at 3,422 meters. Next, the coach climbs to Ticapampa at 3,456 meters, offering panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks. The final stop before reaching the glacier is Catac, situated at 3,466 meters, where the group can admire the Pachacoto Gorge and PatoCocha lagoon, home to wild ducks.

| Location | Elevation (m) | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Recuay | 3,422 | Quaint town |

| Ticapampa | 3,456 | Panoramic mountain views |

| Catac | 3,466 | Pachacoto Gorge, PatoCocha lagoon |

| Umapashimin | – | 7-colored lake |

| Puya Raimondi | – | Towering endemic plant |

Exploring the Pastoruri Glacier

After traversing the scenic landscapes, the group reaches the trailhead leading to the magnificent Pastoruri Glacier.

The 1-hour walk to the glacier provides ample opportunities to witness its sheer size and grandeur.

Once there, visitors can:

1. Explore the striking ice walls and observe the glacier’s retreat due to global warming.

2. Experience the unique sensation of walking on the snow and frozen lagoon.

3. Capture breathtaking photographs that immortalize the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.

The Pastoruri Glacier excursion offers an unforgettable glimpse into the changing cryosphere and the impacts of climate change.

Connecting With Nature’s Wonders

Trekking through the awe-inspiring landscapes, visitors are treated to a profound connection with nature’s wonders at the Pastoruri Glacier. The glistening ice walls and frozen lagoon invite a sense of reverence, as one takes in the grandeur of this majestic natural formation.

| Emotion | Description |

|———|————-|

| Wonder | The vastness and beauty of the glacier evoke a profound sense of awe. |

| Humility| Visitors feel small in the face of nature’s raw power and ancient formations. |

| Contemplation| The glacier’s retreat due to climate change prompts deep reflection on our impact. |

| Appreciation| Connecting with this natural marvel inspires gratitude for the Earth’s wonders. |

This transformative experience leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of our place within the delicate balance of our planet.

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Pastoruri Glacier?

The best time to visit the Pastoruri Glacier is during the dry season, typically from May to September. The weather is generally sunny and mild, making it an ideal time for glacier exploration and outdoor activities.

Can I Rent Hiking Equipment at the Tour Start?

No, you can’t rent hiking equipment at the tour start. The tour information indicates that you’ll need to bring your own gear like comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and rain gear. It’s best to come prepared for the trip.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Pastoruri Glacier Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Pastoruri Glacier tour. The hike to the glacier is suitable for all ages, though it’s recommended that young children be carried or use a stroller due to the high altitude and strenuous terrain.

How Strenuous Is the Hike to the Pastoruri Glacier?

The hike to the Pastoruri Glacier is moderately strenuous, covering 1 hour over uneven terrain at high altitude. Visitors should be prepared for the physical challenge and dress appropriately for the chilly conditions on the glacier.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as it involves a 1-hour walk to reach the Pastoruri Glacier, which is at an elevation of 5,000 meters. Travelers should have a good level of fitness and be able to handle moderate hiking.

Sum Up

The Huaraz: Nevado Pastoruri Glacier | Snowy Full Day Tour offers an unbeatable opportunity to take in the captivating Andes landscape. With its stunning scenic stops, guided hike to the Pastoruri Glacier, and informative insights, this tour provides a unique chance to witness the breathtaking natural wonders while exploring the region’s beauty and understanding the impact of global warming. An unforgettable experience at an affordable price, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the Huaraz area.

You can check availability for your dates here: