What is the Pastoruri Glacier Tour Price 2026?
Planning a trip to the high Andes requires careful budgeting. Many travelers search for the Pastoruri Glacier tour price 2026 to avoid surprises. This high-altitude wonder sits near Huaraz in the Cordillera Blanca. It is one of the few glaciers accessible via a short walk. You will see stunning blue ice and unique high-altitude plants. Knowing the costs helps you plan a better Peru itinerary. Our guide breaks down every expense and must-see stop on the way.
What Does the Pastoruri Glacier Tour Price 2026 Include?
When booking in Huaraz, the base price usually covers group transportation. Most agencies charge between 50 and 80 Peruvian Soles for the shared service. This typically includes a bilingual guide to explain the geography. You should clarify if the price includes hotel pickup. Most tours leave Huaraz around 9:00 AM. They return by 5:30 PM.
The entrance fee is an additional expense for visitors. You must pay this directly to Huascaran National Park staff. In 2026, expect to pay 30 Soles for a one-day pass. If you visit multiple sites, consider a multi-day pass. These passes cost more but offer better value over a week. Always carry cash in Soles for these fees.
Food is rarely included in the standard tour price. Tours usually stop at a local restaurant in Catac or Ticapampa. Expect to pay 20 to 30 Soles for a set lunch. If you struggle with the altitude, horse rentals are available at the base. These cost about 10 to 20 Soles. This makes the climb easier for those feeling the thin air.
10 Top Attractions Near Huaraz on the Pastoruri Route
The journey to the glacier is full of diverse stops. You can explore many top attractions near Huaraz during this single trip. Here are the best specific spots to see:
-
Name: Pastoruri Glacier
Type: Sight
Why go: Experience the "Route of Climate Change" and rare blue ice.
Best for: Photographers and climate enthusiasts.
Where: Southern Huascaran National Park.
Time: 2 hours at the site.
Cost: Included in tour.
Tip: See how seeing climate change at Pastoruri Glacier impacts the receding ice. -
Name: Puyas de Raimondi
Type: Nature
Why go: See the world's largest bromeliads that grow up to 10 meters.
Best for: Plant lovers.
Where: High Andean meadows on the route.
Time: 20 minutes.
Cost: Part of park entry.
Tip: These plants only bloom once every 100 years. -
Name: Pumapampa Mineral Spring
Type: Experience
Why go: Watch naturally carbonated water bubble up from the ground.
Best for: Curious travelers.
Where: Near the Puyas de Raimondi.
Time: 15 minutes.
Cost: Free with tour.
Tip: The water creates colorful mineral deposits on the rocks. -
Name: Patococha Lagoon
Type: Nature
Why go: Spot Andean birds like the Puna Ibis in a serene setting.
Best for: Birdwatchers.
Where: Along the road to the glacier.
Time: 15 minutes.
Cost: Free stop.
Tip: Bring binoculars for a better view of the wildlife. -
Name: Cave Paintings of Pachacoto
Type: Sight
Why go: View ancient rock art dating back thousands of years.
Best for: History buffs.
Where: Near the park entrance.
Time: 10 minutes.
Cost: Free.
Tip: These paintings represent early Andean hunting and gathering. -
Name: Pumashimi Seven-Colored Spring
Type: Sight
Why go: A small pond that reflects various colors based on the sun.
Best for: Quick photo stops.
Where: Near Pumapampa.
Time: 10 minutes.
Cost: Free.
Tip: The colors are best on bright, sunny mornings. -
Name: Catac Village
Type: Neighborhood
Why go: Taste local delicacies like cuy (guinea pig) or coca tea.
Best for: Foodies.
Where: Crossroads south of Huaraz.
Time: 45 minutes for lunch.
Cost: 20-30 Soles for a meal.
Tip: Drink coca tea here to prevent altitude sickness later. -
Name: Ticapampa
Type: Neighborhood
Why go: Observe the history of the local mining industry in this small town.
Best for: Cultural insight.
Where: Between Huaraz and Catac.
Time: Drive-through or short stop.
Cost: Free.
Tip: Look for the traditional colonial-style church in the center. -
Name: Laguna 69
Type: Day trip
Why go: Visit a bright blue glacial lake that is more challenging than Pastoruri.
Best for: Experienced hikers.
Where: Northern Huascaran National Park.
Time: Full day.
Cost: Similar tour price to Pastoruri.
Tip: Check our guide for a Laguna 69 day trip if you want adventure. -
Name: Chavín de Huántar
Type: Day trip
Why go: Explore a UNESCO ruins site from a pre-Inca civilization.
Best for: Archeology fans.
Where: East of Huaraz.
Time: Full day.
Cost: 50-70 Soles for a tour.
Tip: This is a great alternative to the glacier for those who prefer history.
Logistics and Booking of Pastoruri Glacier tours Huaraz
Booking Pastoruri Glacier tours Huaraz is simple upon arrival. You do not need to book months in advance. Many agencies have offices near the Plaza de Armas. You can compare prices by walking between shops. Most tours are standardized across different providers.
Preparing for the altitude is essential for this trip. The glacier reaches over 5,000 meters above sea level. Spend at least two days in Huaraz before attempting this visit. Check the best time to visit Pastoruri Glacier to ensure clear skies. The dry season runs from May to September.
Dress in layers to manage the extreme temperature changes. It can be warm in Huaraz but freezing at the glacier. Bring a waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes. Sun protection is vital because the snow reflects high UV rays. Wear a hat and use high-SPF sunscreen. Carry plenty of water and light snacks to keep your energy up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total Pastoruri Glacier tour price 2026?
A total budget of 100 to 140 Soles is recommended. This includes the tour agency fee (60 Soles), the national park entry (30 Soles), and a local lunch (30-40 Soles). Always have extra cash for snacks or horse rentals.
Do I need to hike to see Pastoruri Glacier?
The hike is very short but quite steep. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the ice from the parking lot. Because the altitude is high, it feels much harder. Horses are available for those who cannot walk the distance.
When is the best time for Pastoruri Glacier tours?
The best time is during the Andean summer, from May to September. These months feature sunny days and very little rain. You will get the best views of the blue ice and surrounding peaks during this period.
The Pastoruri Glacier tour price 2026 remains affordable for most international travelers. By budgeting about 120 Soles, you can experience a spectacular high-altitude landscape. This tour is perfect for anyone wanting to see the effects of climate change firsthand. Remember to stay hydrated and acclimatize properly in Huaraz. Ready for more adventure? Check out other top attractions near Huaraz to complete your Peru journey.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Municipalidad Provincial de Huaraz — Official municipal website; unverified source.
- PromPerú — National tourism board; unverified source.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO listing for Huascarán; unverified source.
- Lonely Planet — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
- UNASAM University — Public university in Huaraz; unverified source.
