Trip from Puno to Cusco with the Route of the Sun: An In-Depth Review
Traveling from Puno to Cusco along the Ruta del Sol is a rewarding journey that offers a blend of natural beauty, archaeological sites, and authentic Peruvian culture. Priced at $103 per person and lasting around 10 hours, this tour is a solid choice for anyone eager to see some of the most interesting stops en route, including the Lithic Museum of Pucará, the border at La Raya Pass, the impressive Raqchi Archaeological Complex, and the beautifully decorated Andahuaylillas Church.
What we love about this experience is how it balances comfortable transportation with insightful guided visits. The inclusion of a buffet lunch featuring regional dishes adds a tasty touch that helps travelers re-energize for the day’s adventures. Another big plus? The knowledgeable guides who manage to keep the journey engaging without overwhelming you with facts—exactly what you want when you’re on the move.
A possible consideration is the long travel time. While 10 hours might seem like a lot, much of that is spent comfortably on a bus with scenic stops, making it suitable for those who enjoy a leisurely, educational ride with plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re not a fan of lengthy bus days or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be the ideal trip.
This tour is best suited for history buffs, culture lovers, and those who appreciate stunning landscape views and authentic local experiences. If you’re after a well-organized day that covers significant sites with ease, this trip offers excellent value and a genuine glimpse into Peru’s diverse heritage.
Key Points
- Comfortable transportation with a professional, bilingual guide
- Stops at key sites like Pucará, Raqchi, and Andahuaylillas
- Includes entrance fees and a regional buffet lunch
- Scenic stops such as La Raya Pass with breathtaking views
- Authentic cultural experience with guided tours and sightseeing
- Long but rewarding day, ideal for those with a sense of adventure
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
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Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup
We begin our day around 6:30 AM with a hotel pickup in Puno. This early start means you’ll want to be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby a few minutes beforehand. The driver will call for you at reception, making it easy to find your way. From there, we board a comfortable coach that will take us on the scenic Route of the Sun. The journey itself is quite scenic, with views of the highland landscape that remind you just how vast and varied Peru’s geography is.
First Stop: Pucará and its Lithic Museum
Our first real exploration begins at the Lithic Museum of Pucará, a site that predates the Incas. Here, we get a glimpse of the early cultures that thrived long before the Incas laid their claim to the region. The museum displays ceramics and sculptures, including zoomorphic figures and the striking HATUNÑAQAC, which translates to the “supreme cutthroat.”
We loved how our guide explained the significance of these artifacts, making the ancient art feel alive. The visit is a brief but enriching introduction to the pre-Inca civilizations, adding depth to our understanding of Peru’s long-standing history.
La Raya Pass: The Border Between Puno and Cusco
Next, we stop at the La Raya Pass, the highest point of the trip at over 4,335 meters above sea level. This spot is iconic—the border between Puno and Cusco—and offers sweeping views of Chimboya, a snow-capped peak from which the Amazon River originates. The scenery here is spectacular, and the stop provides a perfect opportunity for photos—great for capturing those memorable landscape shots.
This pass is also an excellent point for a quick break, stretching your legs after the bus ride. We appreciated how the tour managed this stop efficiently, giving us just enough time to take in the views while maintaining the schedule.
More Great Tours NearbyMidday: Buffet Lunch and Rest
The buffet lunch is an experience in itself. Set in a comfortable location mid-route, the meal features a wide selection of regional dishes, fresh vegetables, and delicious desserts. Hot drinks are available to warm you up after the high-altitude stop.
From the reviews, we know that many travelers find the lunch to be “OK” but satisfying enough to refuel for the rest of the day. It’s a good value for the price, especially considering it’s included, saving you the hassle and expense of finding a meal on your own.
Raqchi Archaeological Complex: A Glimpse into Inca and Wari Culture
After lunch, we arrive at Raqchi, also known as the Temple of Wiracocha. This site features stone and adobe structures, including the large granaries called Colcas. Our guide explained that Raqchi was an important religious and administrative center for the Inca Empire.
The magnificent ruins and impressive stonework make this stop a highlight. We loved the way the site connects the Inca and Wari cultures, giving us a tangible sense of Peru’s archaeological richness. It’s a place that feels both grand and intimate, with enough space to explore at your own pace.
Andahuaylillas: The “Sistine Chapel of the Andes”
The last stop before reaching Cusco is the Church of Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes”. Its vivid murals, gold-leaf decorations, and artworks from the Cusco school are truly stunning. Inside, you can appreciate the intricate paintings and baroque-style interior, which reflect a blend of religious symbolism and local craftsmanship.
Travelers commonly mention the beauty and preservation of the church’s artwork, and we agree it’s well worth the visit. It’s a peaceful, almost reverent space that caps off a day full of cultural discovery.
Arrival in Cusco
Finally, we arrive in Cusco, where the guide transfers us to our hotel. The entire trip, though long, feels worthwhile, offering you a comprehensive snapshot of the highland region, combining natural beauty with cultural landmarks.
Why Travelers Love This Tour
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who balance information delivery with free time, making the experience enjoyable and educational. Lindsay described the guide as “incredibly comfortable and excellent,” highlighting the quality of the guidance.
The scenic stops at La Raya and the archaeological sites are widely appreciated. Many mention that the views are stunning and that the sites are well-preserved and fascinating. The inclusion of a buffet lunch also garners positive feedback, with travelers noting that it offers a good variety of regional dishes.
A few reviews mention that the trip is well-organized, with all sections running on time, and that the bus seats are very comfortable—important when spending hours on the road.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers excellent value for its price, especially considering the entrance fees, transportation, guide, and lunch are all included. It’s a well-rounded way to experience some of the most notable sites along the route of the Sun, combining history, culture, and scenery in one day.
It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and see key landmarks without the stress of organizing transportation or guides. If you enjoy guided tours that offer meaningful insights and authentic sites, this trip is a smart choice.
However, be prepared for a long day—the trade-off for seeing so much in one go. If you’re comfortable with bus travel and want a rundown of this part of Peru, this tour will serve you well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the tour start?
The pickup begins around 6:30 AM from your hotel in Puno, with specific start times depending on availability.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is part of the tour, featuring regional dishes, fresh vegetables, desserts, and hot drinks.
How long is the bus ride?
The journey from Puno to Cusco, with stops, lasts approximately 10 hours. The bus is described as very comfortable, making the long ride more enjoyable.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all entrance fees to sites like Pucará, Raqchi, and Andahuaylillas.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and cash for personal expenses are recommended.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Given the long duration and high-altitude stops, it might be better suited for active adults or older travelers who are comfortable with bus travel and walking.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides are available in Spanish and English to accommodate diverse travelers.
To sum it up, the Puno to Cusco route with stops at key archaeological and cultural sites offers a balanced mix of comfort, education, and authentic experience. Whether you’re passionate about history, scenery, or regional cuisine, this tour provides a valuable glimpse into the heart of Andean Peru, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.
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