Cusco Puno Bus Tour with lunch
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This amazing tour known as La Ruta del sol Peru, connects two important touristic cities. Cusco, home of the world wonder Machu Picchu, and Puno where the fantastic Lake Titicaca is located.
The journey by tourist bus includes three main stops to visit such as the Sistine Chapel of America, Raqchi the temple of Wiracocha and the Museum of Pucara.
Discover this incredible tour from Cusco to Puno, or vice versa, and explore the south of Peru with us.
Available options
Bus Cusco/Puno without ticket entrances
Ticket entrances are not included<br/>Buffet lunch included<br/>From Cusco to Puno
Bus Puno/Cusco with ticket entrances
Ticket entrances included<br/>Buffet lunch included<br/>From Puno to Cusco<br/>Starting point:<br/>Terminal Privado TURISMO MER, Av. Costanera 430, Puno 21001, Peru
Bus Cusco/Puno with ticket entrances
Ticket entrances included<br/>Buffet lunch included
<br/>From Cusco to Puno
Bus Puno/Cusco without ticket entrances
Ticket entrances are not included<br/>Buffet lunch included<br/>From Puno to Cusco<br/>Starting point:<br/>Terminal Privado TURISMO MER, Av. Costanera 430, Puno 21001, Peru
What's included
First Aid Kit
Service on board with cold and hot drinks
Touristic bus from Cusco to Puno
Guided tours in Spanish and English
Ticket entrances to visit tourist places in each stop (optional)
Buffet lunch at a local restaurant
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After boarding the tourist bus located at the bus station in the city of Cusco, we will begin a 1-hour journey towards the beautiful south valley in order to make the first stop in Andahuaylillas situated at 3,093 meters above sea level.
This lovely Andean town has an incredible jewel of the architecture dating back to the seventeenth century known as the Sistine Chapel, with an impressive work covered in gold leaf and paintings of the art school of Cusco.
There is a fascinating artwork inside the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, ceilings and walls decorated in a Baroque style, many of them belong to the Peruvian painter Luis de Reaño. Definitely, it should be a must in your travel bucket list.
2
Stop 2
The bus ride continues, for one hour and a half, until reach the archaeological site of Raqchi, our second stop located at 3,450 meters above sea level. The temple of Wiracocha was built next to the Vilcanota River during the fifteenth century and, currently, it has huge walls that belonged to temples, as well as aqueducts and tombs.
In this place, there are circular storehouses known as Colcas. Them were used to hold different kind of grains such as quinoa, potato, corn, among others. Another interesting fact is that Raqchi is part of the incredible Inca Trail.
3
The tour to Puno by bus continues until we reach the city of Sicuani to enjoy a buffet lunch in a local restaurant, that offers local and regional dishes, vegetables, desserts and hot drinks like mate de coca.
4
Stop 4
After lunch and a travel of 40 minutes by bus, we are going to reach the highest point of the tour called La Raya Pass, situated at 4,335 meters above sea level. This is the border of the cities of Cusco and Puno, and here, we are going to make a short stop to admire the snow-capped Chimboya and take pictures of beautiful landscapes.
5
The next and the last visit will be at Museum of Pucara, after a trip of more than an hour from La Raya pass. This museum has an excellent collection of monoliths, stone sculptures and ceramics belonging to the culture of Pucara, a civilization developed in the highlands of Peru and Bolivia.
At the end, we will take the tourist bus to travel for two more hours towards the city of Puno. Along the way you will be able to admire landscapes of the heart of the Andes, passing through the city of Juliaca, until we arrive at the bus station of Puno at 05:00 p.m.
What's not included
Gratuities
Transfers from and to the bus station in Cusco and Puno
The buffet lunch doesn't include cold drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
6 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You should bring hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, money for personal expenses and camera
If you select the option without ticket entrances, you can get them directly in each stop
It is not allowed to take photos and videos inside the Chapel of Andahuaylillas and Museum of Pucara
Take note that the route from Puno to Cusco is the same, the order of the tour is the opposite.
Boarding time 06:30 AM
Meeting point
If you departs from Puno, the bus station is located at Avenida Costanera 430, Puno
Important notes
If you have any question, do not hesitate to contact us!
OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 3221-8400 (Mon to Sat from 9 to 18 Hs and Sundays from 10 to 19 Hs)
EMERGENCY MOBILE: (+54 911) 6224-2222 (After office hours)
About Cusco
Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.
Top Attractions
Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.
Historical/Nature
Full day
PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.
Historical/Adventure
Full day or overnight
PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary
Qorikancha
Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
PEN 10 (USD 2.50)
Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.
Historical
1-2 hours
PEN 10 (USD 2.50)
San Pedro Market
San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.
Cultural/Food
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cuy al Horno
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Main Course
Not vegetarian
Lomo Saltado
Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian
Aji de Gallina
Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.
Main Course
Not vegetarian
Sopa de Quinoa
Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.
Soup
Can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Trekking
Mountain biking
Whitewater rafting
Visiting spas
Exploring parks
Enjoying local cafes
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.
5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)
41°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions
Cusco 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 valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious with street food
Getting there
By air
- Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
By train
San Pedro Station
By bus
Cusco Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center
San Blas
San Cristobal
Day trips
Pisac
35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day
Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.
Ollantaytambo
60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight
Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.
Tipon
25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day
Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.
Festivals
Inti Raymi • June 24
Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August
Pro tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
- Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
- Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
- Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
- Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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