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

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

Outty Ranking 86 4.8 · 132 traveler reviews10 hoursFrom $45
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Outty Ranking

86/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 132 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) worth booking?

Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) is a 10-hour experience in Puno, Peru, from $45 per person. It scores 86 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 132 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
86 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (132)
Duration
10 hours
From
$45 per person

Discover Peru’s most iconic road trip! Travel from Puno to Cusco in style aboard the official ‘Route of the Sun’ touristic bus. Along this full-day journey, you’ll stop at 4 cultural landmarks—like the Andean Sistine Chapel and an ancient Inca temple—while enjoying breathtaking mountain views and insight from expert guides. With over 24 years of experience, our modern luxury buses include onboard service, daily departures, and an authentic connection to Peru’s living traditions. ✔️ Scenic stops in the Andes ✔️ Guided visits to cultural heritage sites ✔️ Buffet lunch included ✔️ Comfortable transport with onboard facilities

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover Peru’s most iconic road trip! Travel from Puno to Cusco in style aboard the official ‘Route of the Sun’ touristic bus. Along this full-day journey, you’ll stop at 4 cultural landmarks—like the Andean Sistine Chapel and an ancient Inca temple—while enjoying breathtaking mountain views and insight from expert guides. With over 24 years of experience, our modern luxury buses include onboard service, daily departures, and an authentic connection to Peru’s living traditions. ✔️ Scenic stops in the Andes ✔️ Guided visits to cultural heritage sites ✔️ Buffet lunch included ✔️ Comfortable transport with onboard facilities

    What's included

    Included

    • Service on board - Hot and cold drinks
    • Oxygen tank
    • Andean buffet Lunch in Marangani – Sicuani
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Private, luxury transport to Cusco
    • On-board restrooms
    • Guided visit to Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, La Raya and the Lithic Museum of Pucará

    Not included

    • Entrance tickets for Andahuaylillas, Raqchi Complex, and Pucara Museum – 53.00 soles

    What you'll see and do

    1. Museo Litico Pukara

      Step Into the Ancient World of Pucará. Discover one of the most important pre-Inca cultures in the Andes! Pucará is more than a stop—it’s the birthplace of highland civilization in the Lake Titicaca region, dating back to 500 BC. At its peak, this thriving city stretched across a full square kilometer, home to priests, artisans, farmers, and warriors. But what makes Pucará truly unforgettable are its stunning monolithic sculptures and colorful ceramics. You’ll see intricate designs—geometric, animal, and human—that still captivate archaeologists and visitors alike. Wander through temples, feel the ancient energy of this sacred site, and witness the artistry of Peru’s earliest cultural pioneers.

      45 minutes here · Admission not included

    2. La Raya Pass

      Welcome to the highest point of your journey—Abra La Raya, a breathtaking mountain pass that marks the natural border between Cusco and Puno. Perched at 4,335 meters (14,200 feet) above sea level, this spot delivers 360° views of the snow-capped Andes, glacial streams, and endless skies. Keep your camera ready—you’ll often spot peaceful alpacas grazing beneath towering peaks. Feel the crisp mountain air, take in the silence of the highlands, and experience the raw beauty of Peru’s Altiplano. It’s more than a photo stop—it’s a moment you’ll remember forever.

      20 minutes here · Admission not included

    3. Midway through your journey, you’ll enjoy a relaxing 1-hour buffet lunch—a flavorful highlight of the tour. Set in a scenic Andean town, this meal showcases the rich culinary traditions of the highlands. Sample a wide variety of authentic local dishes, including quinoa soups, grilled meats, native potatoes, fresh vegetables, and traditional sauces made from regional spices. There are plenty of options for vegetarians, and the buffet is served in a clean, comfortable dining hall with friendly staff and great views. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that will leave you satisfied, energized, and ready for the next leg of your adventure.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    4. Parque Arqueologico De Raqchi

      Step into one of the most sacred and impressive Inca sites on the Route of the Sun. Raqchi, officially recognized as one of the Best Tourism Villages, is home to Wiracocha Temple—a massive, 15-meter-tall was built by an Inca emperor to honor Wiracocha, the Andean people’s invisible Superior God Explore crumbling walls, ceremonial halls, and ancient storage silos that once supported a bustling Inca settlement. The scale, symmetry, and stonework are truly astonishing, offering insight into both the spiritual beliefs and engineering genius of the Inca Empire. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, Raqchi is one of those places that lingers in your memory long after the journey ends.

      60 minutes here · Admission not included

    5. San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas

      Our journey ends with a showstopper—the stunning Church of Saint Peter the Apostle, better known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.” Tucked inside a quiet village, this humble-looking 16th-century church hides an interior of pure visual drama: gold-leaf altars, ornate wood carvings, and ceiling-to-wall frescoes that blend Andean traditions with European baroque style. Built by Jesuits atop a sacred Inca site, the church is a powerful symbol of Peru’s layered spiritual history. It’s the perfect finale—rich in color, meaning, and wonder.

      45 minutes here · Admission not included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Puno

    Passengers must be at the bus terminal at 5:40 am, as the bus departs at 6:10 am.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Inka Express

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun), photo 2Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun), photo 3Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun), photo 4Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun), photo 5Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun), photo 6Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun), photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 132 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    6 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Organization

    2 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Pace and timing

    2 mentions

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    132 verified traveler reviews for Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    104
    4 star
    26
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    1
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    ErnestAlvin_A · October 2026

    Our tour guide,...

    Our tour guide, Elizabeth, was very knowledgeable. The stops were very informative. The bus is top notch with leg/foot rest, USB outlets and Wi-Fi. The lunch buffet was incredible with so much variety. Don't miss the museum below the restaurant. This is the best way to travel from Puno to Cusco or vice versa. Highly recommend.

    via Viator

    Roxanne_S · October 2026

    A good experience

    Comfortable bus with a good choice of foods for the buffet lunch that’s included. A scenic way to travel between Puno and Cusco. Including the stops along the way. 3 guided tours cost extra if not included with your ticket. The guide was excellent, speaking in good English and Spanish, giving details of areas we were passing , as well as explanations at the sites.

    via Viator

    nadinec51 · October 2026

    We are very happy and satisfied

    wonderful experience with Inca express. Everything is well prepared. Everyone is friendly and thoughtful. Guide is good. Food is good. There is smooth arrangement. We are very happy and satisfied.

    Response from the operator: Hi Nadine, We’re so happy to hear you had such a wonderful day! It’s lovely to know you felt well looked after from start to finish and enjoyed the guide, food, and smooth organisation along the way. Your kind words mean a lot to our team! Safe travels, Inka Express

    via Tripadvisor

    E7621DHtanyas · September 2026

    Smooth operator and excellent knowledge

    Our guide Mathias was fantastic. He did a great job speaking in English and Spanish. His knowledge was excellent. The tour was very well organised. In the end the negative part of our experience were some of the other passengers who chose not to follow the simple and clear instructions on what time to meet. Consequently we arrived over an hour later than expected - none of this was Inka’s fault. People can be so disrespectful. The driver and guides handled it much better than I would have and they were fantastic.

    Response from the operator: Hi Tanya, We’re happy to hear that Matias’s knowledge and ability to guide in both English and Spanish added so much to your day. It also means a lot to know that our driver and guides handled the unexpected delays with patience and professionalism. We truly appreciate you recognising their efforts and sharing such thoughtful feedback! Safe travels, Inka Express

    via Tripadvisor

    ThanasisTs · September 2026

    Great comfortable trip

    Very comfortable seats with inclination to take a nap. Nice stops throughout trip, so you don't get tired. Excellent lunch buffet with many choices. Our guide shared many details in Spanish & English. He accompanied us from early morning in Puno until our arrival in Cusco in the evening. Long trip, but Inka Express made it confortable

    Response from the operator: Hi Thanasis, Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s fantastic to know that the reclining seats, interesting stops, and lunch buffet made the long day so comfortable, and that your guide kept you engaged with plenty of information in both Spanish and English. Thanks for sharing your experience with us! Safe travels, Inka Express

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    10 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $45 to $50
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    46
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Why this scores 86

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)84
    Review evidence (18% weight)89
    Booking momentum (14% weight)86
    Value for money (12% weight)95
    Listing quality (10% weight)78
    Local standing (8% weight)71
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun): questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Puno.

    How much does Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) cost?

    +

    Prices start at $45 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Puno usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) take?

    +

    Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Puno is not rushed.

    Is Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 86 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 132 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Puno, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun)?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun)?

    +

    Around 46 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Puno can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Puno and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Puno within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Puno?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Puno experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Tour to Uros and Taquile Islands in a Fast Boat, Uros and Taquile Speedboat Day Tour in Small Group, Uros and Taquile Islands on New and Comfortable SpeedBoat. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Puno?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Puno?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun)?

    +

    Included: Service on board - Hot and cold drinks; Oxygen tank; Andean buffet Lunch in Marangani – Sicuani; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Private, luxury transport to Cusco. Not included: Entrance tickets for Andahuaylillas, Raqchi Complex, and Pucara Museum – 53.00 soles. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun)?

    +

    Passengers must be at the bus terminal at 5:40 am, as the bus departs at 6:10 am. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun)?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun) if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Puno. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Puno to Cusco Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun)?

    +

    Across 132 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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