Puno: Scenic Sun Route to Cusco with Buffet Lunch

Puno , Peru

Puno: Scenic Sun Route to Cusco with Buffet Lunch

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(35 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Peru’s most iconic road trip! Travel from Puno to Cusco in style aboard the official ‘Route of the Sun’ touristic bus. Along this full-day journey, you’ll stop at 4 cultural landmarks—like the Andean Sistine Chapel and an ancient Inca temple—while enjoying breathtaking mountain views and insight from expert guides.
With over 24 years of experience, our modern luxury buses include onboard service, daily departures, and an authentic connection to Peru’s living traditions.
✔️ Scenic stops in the Andes
✔️ Guided visits to cultural heritage sites
✔️ Buffet lunch included
✔️ Comfortable transport with onboard facilities

Available options

Puno: Scenic Sun Route to Cusco with Buffet Lunch

What's included

Service on board - Hot and cold drinks

Oxygen tank

Andean buffet Lunch in Marangani – Sicuani

Air-conditioned vehicle

Private, luxury transport to Cusco

Restroom on board

Guided visit to Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, La Raya and the Lithic Museum of Pucará

Detailed itinerary

Step Into the Ancient World of Pucará. Discover one of the most important pre-Inca cultures in the Andes! Pucará is more than a stop—it’s the birthplace of highland civilization in the Lake Titicaca region, dating back to 500 BC.
At its peak, this thriving city stretched across a full square kilometer, home to priests, artisans, farmers, and warriors. But what makes Pucará truly unforgettable are its stunning monolithic sculptures and colorful ceramics. You’ll see intricate designs—geometric, animal, and human—that still captivate archaeologists and visitors alike.
Wander through temples, feel the ancient energy of this sacred site, and witness the artistry of Peru’s earliest cultural pioneers.

Stop 2

Welcome to the highest point of your journey—Abra La Raya, a breathtaking mountain pass that marks the natural border between Cusco and Puno.
Perched at 4,335 meters (14,200 feet) above sea level, this spot delivers 360° views of the snow-capped Andes, glacial streams, and endless skies. Keep your camera ready—you’ll often spot peaceful alpacas grazing beneath towering peaks.
Feel the crisp mountain air, take in the silence of the highlands, and experience the raw beauty of Peru’s Altiplano. It’s more than a photo stop—it’s a moment you’ll remember forever.

Midway through your journey, you’ll enjoy a relaxing 1-hour buffet lunch—a flavorful highlight of the tour. Set in a scenic Andean town, this meal showcases the rich culinary traditions of the highlands.
Sample a wide variety of authentic local dishes, including quinoa soups, grilled meats, native potatoes, fresh vegetables, and traditional sauces made from regional spices. There are plenty of options for vegetarians, and the buffet is served in a clean, comfortable dining hall with friendly staff and great views.
It’s more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that will leave you satisfied, energized, and ready for the next leg of your adventure.

Stop 4

Step into one of the most sacred and impressive Inca sites on the Route of the Sun. Raqchi, officially recognized as one of the Best Tourism Villages, is home to Wiracocha Temple—a massive, 15-meter-tall was built by an Inca emperor to honor Wiracocha, the Andean people’s invisible Superior God
Explore crumbling walls, ceremonial halls, and ancient storage silos that once supported a bustling Inca settlement. The scale, symmetry, and stonework are truly astonishing, offering insight into both the spiritual beliefs and engineering genius of the Inca Empire.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, Raqchi is one of those places that lingers in your memory long after the journey ends.

Stop 5

Our journey ends with a showstopper—the stunning Church of Saint Peter the Apostle, better known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.”
Tucked inside a quiet village, this humble-looking 16th-century church hides an interior of pure visual drama: gold-leaf altars, ornate wood carvings, and ceiling-to-wall frescoes that blend Andean traditions with European baroque style.
Built by Jesuits atop a sacred Inca site, the church is a powerful symbol of Peru’s layered spiritual history. It’s the perfect finale—rich in color, meaning, and wonder.

What's not included

Entrance tickets for Andahuaylillas, Raqchi Complex, and Pucara Museum – 53.00 soles

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

32 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Passengers must be at the bus terminal at 6:30 am, as the bus departs at 6:40 am.

About Puno

Puno is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and stunning natural beauty, Puno is a must-visit destination for those exploring Peru's cultural heartland. The city is the gateway to the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island, offering unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

Top Attractions

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the world's highest navigable lake and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and unique islands like the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island.

Nature Full day Budget to Moderate (Boat tours range from 50-150 PEN)

Sillustani

Sillustani is an archaeological site featuring ancient burial towers called 'chullpas.' These towers were built by the Colla people and offer a glimpse into pre-Inca history.

Historical Half day Budget (Entrance fee around 10 PEN)

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is the heart of Puno, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, churches, and vibrant local life. It's a great place to relax and soak in the city's atmosphere.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Cathedral of Puno

The Cathedral of Puno is a beautiful colonial-era church located on the Plaza de Armas. It features a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture and houses several religious artifacts.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Puno Museum of Art and Culture

This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Puno region, featuring artifacts, textiles, and art from the Aymara and Quechua cultures, as well as pre-Inca and Inca civilizations.

Museum 1-2 hours Budget (Entrance fee around 10 PEN)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Trucha a la Plancha (Grilled Trout)

Fresh trout from Lake Titicaca, grilled and served with local potatoes and vegetables. A must-try for seafood lovers.

Main Course Gluten-free, but may contain allergens like fish.

Chairo

A hearty soup made with lamb, potatoes, corn, and quinoa, flavored with local herbs and spices. A traditional dish of the Puno region.

Soup Contains meat and gluten.

Sopa de Quinoa (Quinoa Soup)

A nutritious and flavorful soup made with quinoa, vegetables, and sometimes meat. A staple in the Andean diet.

Soup Can be vegetarian or vegan if made without meat.

Pique a la Puneña

A spicy and flavorful dish made with diced beef, potatoes, onions, and aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper). A popular appetizer in Puno.

Appetizer Contains meat and gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Boating Cultural tours Lakefront walks Spa treatments Coffee shop visits Visiting museums Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to October (Dry Season)

This is the best time to visit Puno as the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the attractions. The temperatures are cool but comfortable.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Aymara, Quechua, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Puno is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services or apps to avoid scams.
• Be cautious with street food and drink only bottled or purified water.

Getting there

By air

Puno International Airport (JUL) • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center

By train

Puno Station

By bus

Puno Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Puno. They cover most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Alto de la Alameda El Mirador

Day trips

Uros Floating Islands

1-2 hours by boat • Half day to full day

The Uros Floating Islands are a unique attraction in Lake Titicaca, made entirely of totora reeds by the Uros people. Visitors can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.

Taquile Island

3-4 hours by boat • Full day to overnight

Taquile Island is known for its stunning landscapes, traditional textiles, and unique culture. The island is home to a close-knit community that preserves its ancient customs and way of life.

Sillustani

35 km (22 miles) from Puno • Half day

Sillustani is an archaeological site featuring ancient burial towers called 'chullpas.' These towers were built by the Colla people and offer a glimpse into pre-Inca history.

Festivals

Festival of the Virgen de la Candelaria • February Puno Week • November 5-12 Carnaval de Puno • February or March (depending on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Acclimate to the high altitude by taking it easy for the first day or two.
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season and festivals.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures throughout the day.
Try local dishes and support local businesses to get an authentic experience.