Route of the Sun: Cusco to Puno Scenic Day Tour

About the Tour

Discover temples, archaeological sites, and Andean landscapes traveling from Cusco to Puno.

Cusco, Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, Sicuani, La Raya Pass, Pukara, Puno

The Route of the Sun from Cusco to Puno is one of the most fascinating cultural journeys in southern Peru, ideal for those who want to travel between both cities while discovering important historic sites and spectacular Andean landscapes along the way. During this full-day tour, you will visit the beautiful baroque temple of the Church of San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas, world-renowned as the «Sistine Chapel of America».

The journey continues to the impressive Inca archaeological complex of Raqchi, famous for the enormous temple dedicated to the god Wiracocha. We will cross the La Raya Pass, the highest point of the route at over 14,000 feet, marking the natural border between Cusco and Puno. Finally, we will explore the Pukara Lithic Museum to learn about the pre-Inca legacy of the highlands, concluding a trip that perfectly blends history, culture, and unforgettable natural sceneries.

Cusco

The imperial city of Cusco is located in southeastern Peru, in the Andes Mountains. It sits at over 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level and was the former capital of the Inca Empire. Today, it is one of the most important tourist destinations in South America.

Puno

Puno is located in southeastern Peru, in the Andean region, near the border with Bolivia, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Tour Images

Step by step

Itinerary – Route of the Sun Cusco to Puno

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07:30 a.m.

Cusco – Boarding

Passenger boarding for the Cusco to Puno tourist bus service at our private terminal. The journey begins.

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08:50 a.m.

Andahuaylillas

Visit the Church of San Pedro Apóstol in Andahuaylillas, famous for its impressive frescoes and known as the «Sistine Chapel of America».

⏱ Visit time: 40 minutes.

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10:50 a.m.

Raqchi Archaeological Complex

Guided visit to the massive temple dedicated to the god Wiracocha, one of the most unique and important Inca constructions in Cusco.

⏱ Visit time: 40 minutes.

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12:30 p.m.

Sicuani – Buffet Lunch

We will stop at La Pascana tourist restaurant to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring traditional regional dishes.

⏱ Stop time: 45 minutes.

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01:10 p.m.

La Raya Pass

A brief photo stop at the highest point of the route (14,222 ft / 4,335 m), the natural border between Cusco and Puno, with views of the mountain range.

⏱ Stop time: 10 minutes.

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02:30 p.m.

Pukara – Lithic Museum

Tour of the site museum to see pre-Inca sculptures and learn about the origin of the Andean highland culture.

⏱ Visit time: 30 minutes.

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05:00 p.m.

Puno – Arrival

Arrival at our private terminal in the city of Puno. End of onboard services.

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Included

Transportation in a fully equipped tourist bus for the Cusco – Puno route.
Professional bilingual guide (English – Spanish) onboard and at each site.
Buffet lunch at La Pascana tourist restaurant (Sicuani).
Entrance tickets to all attractions (Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, Pukara).
Onboard beverages (water, tea, coffee).
Luggage transfer in the bus hold.

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Not Included

Transfer from your hotel in Cusco to our boarding station.
Transfer from the terminal in Puno to your hotel.
Additional drinks during the buffet lunch.
Personal expenses and souvenirs.
Tips (optional).

Tour duration

Full Day (Approx. 10 hours).

Schedule

Boarding: 07:30 a.m. – Arrival in Puno: 05:00 p.m. approx.

Max altitude

14,222 ft / 4,335 m (La Raya Pass).

Difficulty

Easy. The tour is mostly by bus with brief and accessible walks.

Tour type

Cultural Tours

Luggage allowance

One medium suitcase in the hold and a small backpack on board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Any questions?

The direct bus takes 6-7 hours without stops, while the Route of the Sun takes approx. 10 hours, offering guided visits and a buffet lunch. It’s the ideal way to make the most of the journey for sightseeing.

No. The service ends at our private terminal in Puno. The transfer from the station to your hotel is at the passenger’s expense.

Yes, since this is an interregional transfer, the buses have large, secure holds to store your main luggage throughout the trip.

The highest point is the La Raya Pass, reaching 14,222 feet (4,335 meters). Therefore, we recommend having spent at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco beforehand.

Yes, it is a completely relaxed and safe bus trip, with no long physical demands during the walks at the tourist sites.

Recommendations

Tips to enjoy the route

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Dress in Layers

The weather varies radically: cold mornings in Cusco, warm middays, and windy afternoons in Puno. Wear a warm jacket and comfortable clothes.

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Altitude Acclimatization

Stay hydrated throughout the trip, avoid alcohol the night before, and bring pills or lemon drops for altitude sickness.

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Bring Cash in Soles

It is very useful for paying to use restrooms, buying drinks at lunch, or purchasing souvenirs from local artisan communities.

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Carry-on Luggage

Bring a small backpack to your seat with your valuables, personal documents, sunscreen, phone, and a power bank.

Route of the
Sun

Discover temples, archaeological sites, and Andean landscapes traveling from Cusco to Puno.

Itinerary – Route of the Sun Cusco to Puno

Any questions?

Tips to enjoy the route

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Route of theSun

Discover temples, archaeological sites, and Andean landscapes traveling from Cusco to Puno.

Itinerary – Route of the Sun Cusco to Puno

Any questions?

Tips to enjoy the route

Tours You May Be Interested In

Lima & Cusco 7 Days – Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley & Humantay

Cusco, Machu & Vinicunca 4D

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Route of the
Sun