Puno: Full-Day Route of the Sun Tour to Cusco with Lunch

Puno: Full-Day Route of the Sun Tour to Cusco with Lunch

This tour promises a scenic journey along Peru’s famed “Route of the Sun”—a route steeped in history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Starting early in Puno and ending in Cusco, it’s a 11-hour adventure that includes four guided stops, panoramic views, and a delicious buffet lunch. The price of around $44 per person makes it a very accessible way to explore some of the Andes’ most memorable sights, all on a comfortable, climate-controlled bus.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the knowledgeable guides—who bring the sites alive with stories—and the beautiful stops that break up the long drive, giving you a chance to stretch, take photos, and really soak in the scenery. It’s a carefully curated way to see the region without the hassle of driving yourself or rushing through crowded sites.

A potential consideration is the additional entry fees for sites like Raqchi and Andahuaylillas, which you’ll need to pay in person. Also, the lunch, while generally praised, might be a bit rushed during busy times. Despite these points, this tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, informative, and scenic transfer with meaningful stops along the way, especially if you’re keen to learn about Peru’s ancient cultures without spending a fortune.

If you’re curious about a relaxed yet engaging transfer from Puno to Cusco that combines sightseeing, cultural insights, and comfort, this tour hits many of those marks.

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Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Modern, climate-controlled bus with onboard amenities like a bathroom and herbal infusions.
• Expert guides: Bilingual guides provide insightful commentary, making the stops more meaningful.
• Cultural highlights: Visits to key sites like Raqchi and Andahuaylillas deepen your understanding of Inca and colonial history.
• Stunning scenery: Enjoy sweeping views of the Andes, especially from Abra La Raya, the highest point on the route.
• Delicious lunch: A buffet featuring traditional Andean dishes offers a satisfying break and a taste of local cuisine.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and book now with the option to pay later.

A Deep Dive into the Full-Day Route of the Sun Tour

This tour offers a practical and enriching way to traverse the mountainous landscape between Puno and Cusco, two key cities in Peru. For those who love history, culture, and scenery, the journey’s stops are carefully chosen to balance education and visual delight.

Starting Point: Puno

Your adventure kicks off early at the Terminal Terrestre Puno. From there, you board a modern, comfortable bus equipped with climate control, a bathroom, and onboard refreshments like herbal infusions, Coca-Cola, and Inca Kola. The bus’s always-spotless appearance and spacious seats, often with adjustable backs, come highly praised—reviewers frequently mention how the drive doesn’t feel like a long bus trip but more like a guided tour, thanks to the knowledgeable guides.

First Stop: Pucara Museum

About 45 minutes into the trip, you’ll visit the Pucara Museum. Although the entry fee isn’t included, this stop is a favorite among travelers for its glimpse into the origins of Andean civilization. Pucara was once a bustling settlement from roughly 500 BC to 200 AD. From the moment we stepped inside, we could imagine the lively city that once thrived here—home to priests, artisans, farmers, and warriors. Visitors have raved about the guided tour, with one reviewer noting how Ellie, their guide, was very knowledgeable and offered hot drinks during the visit, adding a warm touch.

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The Scenic Heights: Abra La Raya

Next, around 11:00 AM, the bus reaches Abra La Raya, the highest point on the route. This spot offers sweeping views of the Andes mountains that will make your camera happy. It’s a brief stop—about 10 minutes—but enough to get out, take photos, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Travelers say this part of the trip is “breathtaking,” and it’s a great photo opportunity to capture the vastness of the region.

Lunch in Marangani or Sicuani

Around 11:35 AM, the bus pulls into a restaurant for a buffet lunch. The meal features traditional Andean dishes—you might find beef, chicken, or fish options, accompanied by salads and desserts. Reviewers highlight the quality and variety of the buffet, with many saying it’s an excellent value for the price. Food is served efficiently, though during peak times, it might feel a little rushed.

Raqchi: An Archaeological Highlight

After lunch, about 1:00 PM, the tour visits Raqchi, known for its impressive Inca Temple of Wiracocha. This sacred site features walls up to 15 meters high and offers insight into Inca religious practices. Visitors often mention how the guide’s explanations help bring the stones and ruins to life. One reviewer called Raqchi “a highlight,” noting how the site’s size and history make it well worth the short stop.

Andahuaylillas: The “Sistine Chapel of the Andes”

Later in the afternoon, the tour heads to Andahuaylillas, a small village famous for its 16th-century Jesuit church. Inside, you’ll find dazzling murals, gold leaf decorations, and detailed artwork. Despite the unassuming exterior, visitors frequently comment on how stunning the interior is—one even described it as “speechless.” The 45-minute stop allows time for photos and contemplation of the blending of colonial and indigenous art.

Arrival in Cusco

Finally, around 5:30 PM, you arrive at the bus terminal in Cusco, tired but enriched by the day’s journey. Most travelers agree that the stops along the route provided a perfect balance of scenic beauty and cultural insight, making this more than just a transfer.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

Across many reviews, one consistent theme is how knowledgeable guides turn what could be a simple bus ride into an engaging experience. Melanie mentioned how Ellie, the guide, offered hot drinks and shared her enthusiasm, making the stops “interesting and fun.” Lukas praised the trip as “easy and relaxed,” with a guide providing “amazing information about the sights and culture.”

Comfort is another theme—reviewers frequently cite the spacious, modern bus and the onboard amenities. The fact that there’s a bathroom onboard and the availability of drinks and herbal infusions tend to make the long journey smoother.

The stops themselves are highly valued. Pucara offers a glimpse into early Andean civilization, while Raqchi provides a chance to connect with Inca architecture. The Church of Andahuaylillas, with its murals, offers a moment of awe and is often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.” The lunch, praised for its variety and flavor, breaks up the drive and provides a chance to enjoy local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Some travelers mention potential downsides, such as the extra entry fees you’ll pay on arrival (about 53 soles) and the possibility of feeling rushed during peak times. However, the overall consensus is that the trip offers excellent value, especially considering the convenience and richness of stops.

Practical Tips for Travelers

To get the most from this tour, we recommend confirming the start time and arriving early at the terminal, especially since finding the bus can sometimes be tricky—reviewers note that the InkaExpress booth at Puno station is easy to miss. Remember to bring some cash for the site entry fees, and consider bringing a jacket for the higher elevations at Abra La Raya.

While breakfast isn’t included, you might want to have a small snack before departure, particularly if you’re a big eater. The lunch buffet is generally well-liked, but if you have dietary restrictions, it’s worth asking the guides in advance.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort, culture, and a good story. If you like learning about history without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple visits, the guided stops and commentary will serve you well. It’s especially suited for those with limited time between Puno and Cusco but eager to see some of the most iconic sites along this route.

It’s also perfect if you want a budget-friendly, all-in-one package that combines scenery, culture, and cuisine without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you value knowledgeable guides and interesting stops, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the region’s treasures.

FAQ

Is the bus ride comfortable?
Yes, the bus is modern, climate-controlled, and equipped with a bathroom. Many travelers mention that the seats are spacious with adjustable backs, making the long journey easier.

Are the site entries included?
No, the entry fees for sites like Raqchi and Andahuaylillas are paid separately (about 53 soles in total). These are paid in person at each site.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour starts early, around 6:40 AM, to make the most of daylight and avoid afternoon crowds at sites.

Is the lunch buffet good?
Most reviews agree that the buffet offers a good variety of traditional dishes, with some describing it as “delicious” and “worth the price.”

Are there any hidden costs?
The main additional costs are for site entries. The tour itself, including transportation, guide, lunch, and onboard amenities, is transparent and reasonably priced.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Route of the Sun Tour from Puno to Cusco offers a comfortable, insightful, and scenic way to travel between two of Peru’s most captivating cities. With expert guides, carefully curated stops, and a flavorful buffet lunch, it’s a well-rounded choice for travelers eager to connect with the region’s history and landscape without the stress of self-driving.

While there are minor extra costs and some moments of rushing, the overall experience is highly praised. It’s a great way to turn a simple transfer into a memorable part of your Peruvian adventure—perfect for those who value storytelling, comfort, and authentic sights in a single day.

Whether you’re a history buff, a scenery lover, or simply want an easy, informative journey, this tour has something to offer. It balances value and quality beautifully, making it one of the smarter ways to travel across these iconic highland towns.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby