Cusco Puno Bus Tour with lunch

A Scenic Journey Between Cusco and Puno: The Cusco Puno Bus Tour with Lunch

Traveling from Cusco to Puno is a classic way to experience the highlights of southern Peru, and this $70 bus tour offers a well-rounded day of sights, history, and landscapes. With a duration of about 8 hours, it’s a long but rewarding trip, especially if you enjoy cultural stops and scenic views. The tour includes visits to iconic sites like the Andahuaylillas Chapel, the Raqchi archaeological site, and the Pukara Museum, along with a hearty buffet lunch and stops at high-altitude passes.

What we loved most about this tour is the chance to soak in some of Peru’s most picturesque and historically fascinating locations without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets ourselves. The knowledgeable guides really add value, making each stop engaging and informative. Plus, the delicious regional food at the lunch break and the breathtaking vistas at La Raya Pass are unforgettable moments.

That said, it’s not perfect for everyone. The long travel time, with multiple stops that sometimes feel unnecessary, might challenge travelers seeking a faster transit or a more streamlined experience. Also, if you’re sensitive to high altitudes or prone to travel discomfort, the extended bus ride and elevation changes could be a consideration.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to combine history, culture, and scenery in one day. If you’re eager to learn about the Inca civilization, enjoy landscape photography, and don’t mind a full day on the road, this trip could be a memorable highlight of your Peruvian journey.

Key Points

• Cultural richness: Visits to key archaeological and religious sites, including the breathtaking Andahuaylillas Chapel and Raqchi Temple.
• Spectacular scenery: Pass through the Andes at La Raya Pass, the highest point on the route, offering fabulous mountain views.
• Authentic cuisine: A regional buffet lunch with local dishes and coca tea, providing a taste of local flavors.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides who speak both Spanish and English, making the history and significance of stops clear.
• Long but rewarding: A full day of travel with multiple stops, suitable for those with time and curiosity.
• Limited inside access: Restrictions on photos inside certain sites, which might impact the experience for some.

In-Depth Review: Connecting Cusco and Puno—What to Expect

This tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of southern Peru’s cultural and natural highlights, making it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their day and see a lot without the stress of independent planning. Starting early at 6:30 am, the bus departs from Cusco at 7:00 am, giving you an immersive day packed with history, landscape, and local flavors.

The First Stop: San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas

Within about 25 minutes of departure, you arrive in Andahuaylillas, a charming Andean town at 3,093 meters altitude. The highlight here is the Sistine Chapel of America — the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas. This tiny treasure is a feast for the eyes, covered in gold leaf and adorned with stunning paintings by Peruvian artist Luis de Reaño. The interior’s Baroque style ceilings and walls combine religious artistry with impressive craftsmanship.

Travelers often mention that this site is a must-see, with one reviewer calling it “an incredible jewel of architecture.” Since admission is included, you can simply enjoy the artwork without extra hassle. Keep in mind, photography inside is restricted, so bring your camera for outside shots and the church exterior.

The Second Stop: Raqchi Archaeological Site

Next, the bus heads to Raqchi, about an hour and a half away, at 3,450 meters altitude. This site is famous for its Temple of Wiracocha, a sprawling ruin built in the 15th century. The remaining huge stone walls and aqueducts evoke the grandeur of the Inca Empire.

Here, you’ll see circular storehouses called Colcas, used historically for grain storage—quinoa, potatoes, and corn. It’s fascinating to realize that Raqchi was part of the Inca Trail, linking it to a sprawling network of roads and sites, and adding context to your visit. The guide explained that the site remains a significant marker of Inca engineering and religious practices.

A common comment from travelers is how knowledgeable guides make the history come alive. The downside? Sometimes, weather or local disruptions can affect access, as one reviewer noted they couldn’t visit due to a strike.

The Lunch Break: La Pascana in Sicuani

After the archaeological stop, the tour continues to Sicuani for a buffet lunch. The restaurant offers regional dishes and vegetables, accompanied by mate de coca—a traditional remedy for altitude sickness. The buffet is considered quite good value, and the food generally receives positive comments.

One traveler appreciated the variety and quality of the meal, describing it as “delicious regional fare.” Since this is a sit-down stop, it’s an opportunity to relax and refuel before the rest of the journey. Note that drinks like soft drinks or alcohol are not included, but you can purchase them separately.

The High-Altitude Experience at La Raya Pass

Post-lunch, the bus ascends to La Raya Pass, at 4,335 meters. This is the highest point on the route and offers spectacular panoramic views of the snow-capped Chimboya mountain and surrounding peaks. The short 10-minute stop here is perfect for photos, stretching your legs, and taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Travelers consistently praise this stop for the remarkable scenery and the opportunity to get a sense of the scale of the Andes. However, at this altitude, some might feel a bit breathless or dizzy, so stay hydrated and take it slow.

The Final Stop: Pukara Museum

Your last visit is the Pukara Museum, just over an hour from La Raya Pass. It showcases stone sculptures, monoliths, and ceramics from the Pucara civilization, which thrived in the highlands of Peru and Bolivia. The collection helps contextualize the region’s pre-Inca cultures and provides a tangible connection to ancient peoples.

While some reviews mention that photography inside the museum is restricted, the collection is still impressive, and the guide’s explanations enrich your understanding of the artifacts.

The Journey to Puno

After the museum, the bus makes its way over Juliaca and finally arrives in Puno around 5:00 pm. The ride is about two hours, with scenic views along the way, especially as you descend into the Puno region near Lake Titicaca.

The overall value for money here is notable, considering the included tickets, lunch, and guide services. The bus is described as comfortable, though some mention that the air conditioning can be inconsistent, which might be uncomfortable on warmer days.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip appeals most to history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to explore significant archaeological sites and learn about Inca and pre-Inca civilizations. It’s also well-suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with long bus rides and high altitudes. The scenic stops and guided commentary make it ideal for those wanting a deep, yet manageable, introduction to southern Peru’s highlights.

If you’re looking for a fast transfer between Cusco and Puno with minimal stops, this might not be the best fit. But if you want a comprehensive day filled with memorable sights, great food, and expert explanations, this tour delivers.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for protection at high altitudes and sunny weather during the La Raya stop.
• Dress in layers; temperatures can vary from cool mornings to warmer afternoons.
• Carry extra cash if you want to buy drinks or souvenirs at stops.
• Prepare for some restrictions on photography inside certain sites like the chapel and museum.
• Be ready for a full day; the schedule is tight but offers a thorough experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $70 fee includes guided tours in both Spanish and English, the bus ride from Cusco to Puno, a buffet lunch at Sicuani, tickets to most sites, and on-board drinks.

Are entrance tickets to sites included?
Yes, tickets to the Andahuaylillas Chapel, Raqchi, and Pukara Museum are included in the tour fee, unless you opt for the version without tickets, in which case you can buy them on site.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and money for personal expenses. A camera is recommended for scenic views, though photography inside some sites is restricted.

How long is the bus ride?
The full journey from Cusco to Puno lasts approximately 8 hours, including stops. Expect to arrive in Puno around 5:00 pm.

Is the tour suitable for travelers sensitive to high altitudes?
Since the route passes through high-altitude areas like La Raya Pass (4,335 meters), some travelers may experience altitude sickness. Staying hydrated and taking it slow at stops can help.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Cusco Puno Bus Tour offers a solid blend of history, culture, and scenery at a very reasonable price. Travelers who enjoy exploring archaeological sites and scenic mountain passes will find plenty to love in this day-long journey. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and guided explanations enhances the experience, making it a practical way to cover some of Peru’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets independently.

While it’s a long day with multiple stops, the scenery and cultural insights make it worthwhile. Be prepared for the altitude and the bus ride, but know you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the stories and landscapes that define southern Peru.

Summary

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who appreciate cultural sites, stunning views, and don’t mind a full day on the bus. If you want a taste of local history, rugged landscapes, and regional cuisine, this trip offers excellent value and authentic experiences for your Peru adventure.