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Cusco to Puno by Bus Route Full Day

Enjoy the Cusco to Puno by Bus Route Full Day through the best destinations of both emblematic cities of Peru, we start in historic Cusco and take a legendary day trip down the Ruta del Sol. Discover the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” in Andahuaylillas, the sacred Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, and the breathtaking high pass of La Raya. wrap up your trip in Puno, the colorful entry point to the enchanting Lake Titicaca.

Secure your spot today
$ 60
Andahuaylillas I “Sistine Chapel of America” I Raqchi I “Temple of Wiracocha I Marangani I Buffet Lunch in Sicuani I Pucara Museum
Physical level

Moderate

Trip style

Culture, Adventure

Max altitude

4400 meters

Group size

Group Service

Cusco to Puno by bus full day

From majestic colonial churches and ancient Inca ruins to breathtaking mountain vistas, the Ruta del Sol with Inka Express is far more than a simple journey from Cusco to Puno. This full-day excursion seamlessly blends history, culture, and nature into an unforgettable travel experience.

Travel in comfort aboard a modern tourist coach, as knowledgeable and engaging local guides enrich each stop with captivating stories and unique insights you won’t find in any ordinary guidebook.

Trip details

Trip details for the Cusco to Puno by bus full day

The Ruta del Sol offers a captivating journey through Peru’s cultural and historical treasures. In Andahuaylillas, marvel at the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas,” a colonial-era masterpiece adorned with intricate frescoes, ornate baroque details, and centuries of history. Continue to Raqchi, home to the “Temple of Wiracocha,” where impressive Inca stonework and ingenious engineering pay homage to the great creator god.

Midway, pause in Marangani for a buffet lunch in Sicuani, set in a picturesque valley and featuring a variety of fresh Andean and Peruvian specialties. The journey concludes with a visit to the Pucará Museum, where artifacts, pottery, and cultural relics reveal the legacy of one of the region’s earliest civilizations.

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Highlights

Highlights for the Cusco to Puno by bus full day

  • Andahuaylillas – “The Sistine Chapel of the Americas”
    Admire exquisite baroque architecture and vivid colonial frescoes in one of Peru’s most celebrated churches.
  • Raqchi – “The Temple of Wiracocha”
    Explore the impressive Inca sanctuary dedicated to the creator god, showcasing remarkable stonework and ancient engineering.
  • Scenic Buffet Lunch in Sicuani (Marangani) – Savor a diverse buffet of fresh Andean and Peruvian specialties in a picturesque valley setting.
  • Pucará Museum – Discover the heritage of the pre-Inca Pucará culture through a fascinating collection of artifacts, pottery, and history.
  • A Perfect Blend of History, Culture, and Scenery – Experience iconic landmarks, authentic cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes along the legendary Ruta del Sol.
Itinerary
DAY 1

Andahuaylillas - “Sistine Chapel of America” - Raqchi - “Temple of Wiracocha - Marangani - Buffet Lunch in Sicuani - Pucara Museum

Your adventure begins in the historic heart of Cusco, as you set out along the legendary Ruta del Sol — a journey that weaves together breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and centuries of history.

The first stop is the charming town of Andahuaylillas, home to the famed “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” This colonial masterpiece dazzles with intricate frescoes, ornate baroque details, and a timeless beauty that has endured for generations.

Continuing south, you’ll reach the impressive archaeological site of Raqchi, known as the “Temple of Wiracocha.” Here, towering adobe walls and ancient stonework reveal the ingenuity of Inca engineering, built in honor of the great creator god.

Midway through the journey, you’ll pause in the town of Sicuani to enjoy a hearty buffet lunch, showcasing the flavors of the Andes and the best of Peruvian cuisine — the perfect recharge before the afternoon’s discoveries.

As the road climbs higher, you’ll arrive at La Raya, the highest point along the route, where snow-capped peaks meet sweeping valleys in a panorama that feels almost otherworldly.

Descending once more, you’ll explore the Pucara Museum, home to fascinating artifacts and intricate pottery that tell the story of one of the region’s earliest civilizations.

The journey concludes in the vibrant city of Puno, gateway to the legendary Lake Titicaca — a fitting finale to a day filled with history, beauty, and unforgettable moments.

Inclusions

Cusco Puno Bus Route full day tour includes

  • Tourist Coach – Travel to Puno aboard a modern, fully equipped bus featuring plush reclining seats and expansive panoramic windows for uninterrupted views of the Andes.
  • Expert Bilingual Guide – Enrich your journey with captivating commentary, cultural insights, and historical context at every destination.
  • Curated Cultural Stops – Enjoy guided visits to Andahuaylillas, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” the remarkable Inca site of Raqchi, the breathtaking La Raya mountain pass, and the Pukará Museum.
  • High-Speed Connectivity – Stay connected with complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi available throughout the journey.
  • Scenic Buffet Lunch – Savor a freshly prepared buffet lunch in Sicuani, highlighting local Andean flavors in a charming valley setting.
  • Complimentary Beverages – Refresh yourself on board with a selection of coca tea, herbal infusions, coffee, soft drinks, Inca Kola, and bottled water.
  • Altitude Comfort Features – Travel with peace of mind thanks to an onboard oxygen supply and efficient heating system, ensuring maximum comfort at high elevations.

Humantay Lake full day tour does not includes

  • entrance fees for Andahuaylillas, the Raqchi Complex, and the Pucará Museum are not included and must be paid on site. The total cost is 53.00 soles.
Pricing

Prices for Cusco Puno Tour 1 day tour:

Group Price:
$60 USD per person

Private Price: Upon Request

What to bring

What to bring on the Cusco Puno Tour 1 day tour

  • Original passport (must match the one used for booking)
  • Valid university card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (preferably small)
  • Water storage: 2-3L (reusable bottles, not disposable)
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Toilet paper

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit (band-aids, moleskin, etc.)

WHAT TO CARRY IN YOUR BACKPACK
A small backpack (30 to 40L) is recommended for daily hikes. The rest of your belongings will be in your duffel bag carried by the horses.

  • Water (bring your own until the first lunch spot; cold boiled water will be provided at meals)
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Headlamp (essential)
  • Wool hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks (chocolate bars, cereal bars, dry fruits)
  • Rain poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
Travel guide

Travel guide Cusco Puno Tour 1 day tour

The Cusco to Puno by Bus Full Day Tour is one of the most scenic and cultural journeys in Peru. Known as the Ruta del Sol, this route connects the historic city of Cusco with vibrant Puno, gateway to Lake Titicaca. Along the way, travelers experience a mix of breathtaking landscapes, colonial architecture, ancient Inca ruins, and Andean traditions — all in one unforgettable day.

Weather and climate along the route

Daytime temperatures

During the trip, daytime temperatures generally range between 12°C and 22°C (53°F to 72°F). The climate varies depending on altitude: warmer in valleys and cooler at higher points like La Raya.

Nighttime temperatures

As this is a 1-day bus tour, travelers don’t typically face nighttime conditions. However, in destinations like Puno, nights can drop to 5°C (41°F) or lower, so carrying a warm layer is useful if you plan to stay.

Seasonal variations

Dry season (May–October): Clear skies, better visibility, and comfortable weather.

Wet season (November–April): Occasional rains, lush green landscapes, and fewer tourists.

Key stops on the Cusco to Puno 1 day route

  • Andahuaylillas – Known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” this small town features an extraordinary colonial church with baroque frescoes.
  • Raqchi (Temple of Wiracocha) – Impressive Inca archaeological site with massive adobe walls dedicated to the creator god Wiracocha.
  • Sicuani – Lunch stop with a buffet showcasing Andean cuisine.
  • La Raya Pass – The highest point of the journey (4,335 m / 14,222 ft), where snow-capped peaks frame sweeping Andean valleys.
  • Pucara Museum – A glimpse into pre-Inca culture, famous for its ceramics and artifacts.

Physical preparation

No major hiking is required, but some stops involve light walking at high altitude (over 3,500 m / 11,500 ft). Spending at least 1–2 days in Cusco before the tour helps with acclimatization and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

Aditional information

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The Briefing
A briefing will occur the night before the trek at 6 p.m. at our office, located at Portal Confiturias N° 211, Plaza de Armas

Luggage Storage
You can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel during the Humantay Lake 2-day Trek.

Booking the Cusco Puno 1-Full Day Tour
To book, complete our booking form by clicking on the “BOOK NOW” button on our homepage or use the link provided.

Please have the following information ready for each participant:

  • Full name (as per passport)
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
  • Nationality

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are entrance fees required at the stops?
    Yes. Entrance fees for Andahuaylillas, the Raqchi Complex, and the Pucará Museum are not included in the ticket price and must be paid on site. The total is 53.00 soles.
  • What are the main highlights of the Ruta del Sol?
    The journey includes guided visits to iconic sites such as Andahuaylillas — the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” — the Inca archaeological site of Raqchi, the scenic La Raya mountain pass, and the Pucará Museum. It also features a buffet lunch in Sicuani with authentic Andean cuisine.
  • What type of bus does operate?
    We use modern, luxury tourist coaches equipped with reclining seats, panoramic windows, air conditioning, heating, and an onboard restroom for a comfortable travel experience.
  • Is the onboard Wi-Fi reliable?
    Yes. All our buses are equipped with high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected throughout the journey, even in remote areas.
  • Can I check in large luggage?
    Absolutely. We provide secure storage for large suitcases and travel bags, while you keep your smaller personal items with you on board.
  • Is there a restroom on the bus?
    Yes. All our buses are equipped with clean, well-maintained restrooms for your convenience.
  • Is it safe to travel?
    Yes. Safety is our top priority. Our professional drivers, well-maintained fleet, and strict safety protocols ensure a secure and worry-free journey.
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