Cusco to Puno Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun)

4.8 (388 reviews) 10 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

388 reviews

4.8

Cusco to Puno Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Cusco to Puno Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun), photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Get ready for the most scenic road trip through the Andes. This isn't just a transfer from Cusco to Puno — it's the legendary Route of the Sun, and it more than lives up to its name.

Travel in comfort aboard a luxury comfortable bus with onboard service as you journey through breathtaking landscapes and make four unforgettable cultural stops. You'll visit one of the Inca’s largest surviving temples, step inside the "Sistine Chapel of America", and immerse yourself in the deep history and traditions of Andean Peru.

With over 24 years of experience, we’re proud to be the official Ruta del Sol operator, offering daily departures and a seamless blend of comfort, culture, and panoramic beauty. Why settle for a basic ride when you can turn your journey into an epic Andean adventure?

✔️ Scenic stops in the Andes

✔️ Guided visits to cultural heritage sites

✔️ Buffet lunch included

✔️ Comfortable transport with onboard facilities

Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Excellent Quality Best Conversion Top Product

At a glance

Duration: 10 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 40 people
People per booking: 1–30
Operated by: Inka Express

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Adults (3–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Service on board - hot and cold drinks
Included: Private, luxury bus transport to Puno
Included: Oxygen tank
Included: Andean buffet Lunch in Marangani – Sicuani
Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
Included: On-board restrooms: Restroom on board
Included: Guided visit to Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, La Raya and the Lithic Museum of Pucará

Not included

Not included: Entrance tickets for Andahuaylillas, Raqchi Complex, and Pucara Museum – 53.00 soles in cash

Itinerary

San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas

one hour Admission not included

Our journey begins in Andahuaylillas, home to the breathtaking Church of Saint Peter the Apostle — often called the “Sistine Chapel of America.” Built in the 16th century by Jesuit missionaries atop a sacred Inca site, this architectural treasure blends Spanish Baroque style with Andean symbolism.

From the outside, its adobe-and-brick façade is modest. But step inside, and you're surrounded by gold-leaf altars, vivid frescoes, and intricate paintings that make this one of the most stunning religious sites in South America.
Parque Arqueologico De Raqchi

one hour Admission not included

Next, we explore Raqchi, a remarkable Inca archaeological site and official “Best Tourism Village.” The highlight here is the Temple of Wiracocha - one of the largest Incan structures still standing. According to ancient chronicles, this grand temple was built by an Inca emperor to honor Wiracocha, the invisible Supreme God of the Andean people, this massive temple stood 15 meters tall and showcases the Inca’s masterful engineering. Surrounded by ancient ruins and rich spiritual legacy, Raqchi is a powerful step back into the heart of Inca civilization.
Stop 3

one hour Admission included

Midway through the journey, we’ll stop for a relaxing 1-hour buffet lunch featuring the best of traditional Andean cuisine. This is more than just a meal — it’s a chance to savor local flavors like quinoa soup, roasted vegetables, Andean potatoes, fresh salads, and regional meats, all prepared with highland ingredients.

Set in a peaceful highland town, the restaurant offers stunning mountain views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere — the perfect break to recharge before continuing on to Puno.
La Raya Pass

30 min

We pause at Abra La Raya, the dramatic mountain pass that marks the natural border between Cusco and Puno. At over 4,300 meters above sea level, it’s the highest point of the journey and a breathtaking showcase of the Andes in full glory. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and endless sky, this is a perfect moment to stretch your legs, take photos, and feel the vastness of Peru’s highlands.
Museo Litico Pukara

one hour Admission not included

Our final stop is Pucará, the earliest major settlement of the Titicaca Basin, dating back to 500 BC. Once a thriving highland center, Pucará housed thousands — from priests and artisans to farmers and warriors. Today, it offers a rare window into pre-Inca civilization, known for its monolithic stone sculptures with striking geometric and animal forms, and vibrant multi-colored ceramics used in both daily life and sacred rituals. A fascinating glimpse into the roots of Andean culture.