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Discover the wonderful Pitusiray Mountain, Calca

Posted On: 06 November 2025 #MachuPicchuT 17
Discover the wonderful Pitusiray Mountain, Calca

Are you an adventure sports enthusiast? Then I invite you to explore the route to Pitusiray Mountain in Calca. Trekking through this beautiful snow-capped peak promises a pleasant experience. Don't waste any more time and join me to discover Pitusiray Mountain. Pitusiray Mountain, Calca

Where is Pitusiray Mountain located?

The beautiful Pitusiray Mountain is located in the Cusco region of Peru, specifically in the beautiful province of Calca, at 4,991 meters above sea level / 16,375 feet. The trek to the mountain takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. To ascend the mountain, it is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco first, as you will encounter very low temperatures.

Legend of the marvelous Pitusiray Mountain. The elegant Pitusiray snow-capped mountain, rising to over 4,991 meters above sea level, presents a splendid challenge for any traveler who loves trekking and climbing. Its slopes are formed by volcanic rock outcrops, which lend a special touch to the ascent of this incredible glacier.

According to Andean history, Pitusiray and Sawasiray are interconnected. From this connection arises the legend of a beautiful and tumultuous love during the Inca era. This beautiful love story is known as "The Legend of Uno Orqo," and is reenacted for the enjoyment of locals and visitors in the province of Calca during the month of October.

On the other hand, if we consider Andean magical thinking, Sawasiray and Pitusiray are associated with agricultural and pastoral activities, as were most important sites in Cusco during the Inca period. Likewise, the legend of Uno Orqo, from the Andean cosmology, would refer to duality: masculine-feminine; night-day.

What is the weather like on Nevado Pitusiray?

Nevado Pitusiray, located in the province of Calca, enjoys incredible weather year-round; however, when planning a trip to Cusco, it's important to know the best time to visit and what the weather is like. The province of Calca has two distinct seasons.

Rainy season: Between November and March, rainfall varies from drizzle to heavy downpours, especially in February. Therefore, multi-day tours of Cusco are not recommended during this month, but short trips to explore parts of the city are still possible. During these months, you can participate in the Carnival festivities, the traditional "Comadres and Compadres" day (when godparents are represented by dolls made by mothers and vice versa), and the beautiful festival of the Patron Saint Sebastian. You can also explore the main tourist attractions of the city of Cusco.

For this season, it is recommended to wear warm clothing, waterproof jackets, umbrellas, boots, and other accessories to protect yourself from the rain in Cusco.

Dry Season: Between April and October, rainfall is minimal, and you are more likely to enjoy sunny days under Cusco's clear blue skies. During this season, it is recommended to wear light clothing during the day, hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, and stay hydrated. At night, dress warmly because the cold in Cusco is intense, especially during June, July, and August. Pitusiray Mountain, Calca

What is the best season to visit Pitusiray Mountain? The best time to visit Nevado Pistusiray is during the dry season, and you can visit not only the mountain but also other tourist attractions. This season is ideal for all types of tourism in Cusco.

How to get to Calca from Cusco?

Getting to Calca is not complicated; you just need to consider the following recommendations:

If you want to get to Calca as quickly as possible, it is recommended to take a minivan from Calle Puputi, one block from the Inca Garcilaso de la Vega School in Cusco. The travel time by this means of transport is approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour.

As you travel towards Calca, you will be able to see some architectural complexes such as Q'enqo, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara; then you will cross the Málaga pass. Along the way, you will see the generosity of nature as it shows you beautiful landscapes and the sight of animals native to the area. Once we arrive in Pisac, we will continue our journey along the Vilcanota River, finally reaching the beautiful province of Calca. From there, we will head to Nevado Pitusiray. Remember that the hike will take approximately 5 to 6 hours.

Recommendations for visiting Nevado Pitusiray:

It is important to have your personal documents.

To trek to Nevado Pitusiray, it is recommended to use the services of an authorized agency that provides quality service, such as MachupicchuT.

Children over 15 years old can participate in the hike as long as they are accompanied by a responsible adult.

It is important to stay hydrated, so it is recommended to bring water.

It is necessary to acclimatize in Cusco for 2 or 3 days to avoid health problems.

Pack clothing appropriate for the season in which you plan to visit Calca.

If you are taking a minor on any tour in Cusco, they may go alone under the supervision of a responsible adult.

In case of altitude sickness, it is helpful to drink coca leaf tea.

MachuPicchuT

Edwin Caviedes Profesional guide

Edwin Caviedes is the founder and manager of Machu PicchuT, a company that benefits native people communities.