Embarking on the journey from Cusco to Puno offers travelers a chance to explore the captivating Andean highlands. Along the way, they’ll discover the stunning San Pedro de Andahuaylillas church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas," and explore the impressive Raqchi archaeological site. With a knowledgeable guide by their side, guests can savor traditional Peruvian cuisine during a buffet lunch and gain insights into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. This personalized experience, limited to a maximum of 10 participants, promises ample opportunities for exploration and photography, making it a truly memorable adventure. But the journey’s true allure lies in the unexpected discoveries that await those who embark on this captivating route.

Key Points

Cusco to Puno via Andahuaylillas and Raqchi - Key Points

  • This full-day transfer from Cusco to Puno includes sightseeing at the Sistine Chapel of the Americas and the Raqchi archaeological site.
  • The tour features a buffet lunch, English-speaking guide, and air-conditioned bus transportation with hotel pickups.
  • The itinerary includes stops at San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, and Pucara Museum, providing insights into pre-Inca civilizations and cultural heritage.
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness, with caution advised for those with specific medical conditions.
  • The tour has a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guide, ample photo opportunities, and quality of the buffet lunch.

Overview of the Transfer

Cusco to Puno via Andahuaylillas and Raqchi - Overview of the Transfer

What does the full-day transfer from Cusco to Puno entail?

The journey provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience, with stops at the renowned Sistine Chapel of the Americas in San Pedro de Andahuaylillas and the ancient Inca archaeological site of Raqchi.

Along the way, travelers will enjoy a buffet lunch and visit the Pucara Museum.

The transfer is conducted via an air-conditioned bus, with hotel pickups between 6:20 am and 6:35 am, and a 7:00 am departure.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

With free drinks, entrance fees, and souvenir photos available, this transfer offers a well-rounded exploration of the region between the two cities.

Itinerary and Schedule

The tour starts at 6:30 am, with pickup from hotels between 6:20 am and 6:35 am. The bus departs at 7:00 am, and the full-day transfer from Cusco to Puno takes travelers to the stops of Andahuaylillas and Raqchi. The maximum group size is 10 travelers per tour.

Itinerary Schedule
San Pedro de Andahuaylillas 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Raqchi 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Pucara Museum 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm

The tour includes a buffet lunch and an English-speaking professional guide. Free drinks and entrance fees to attractions are also provided.

Buffet Lunch and Pucara Museum

After visiting the historic sites of Andahuaylillas and Raqchi, the tour stops for a buffet lunch.

The lunch features typical Peruvian cuisine, providing travelers with a chance to experience the country’s diverse and flavorful gastronomy.

Following the meal, the group heads to the Pucara Museum, an important archaeological site that showcases the Pucara culture and its influence in the region.

The museum’s exhibits offer insights into the pre-Inca civilizations and their artistic achievements.

This stop on the Cusco to Puno journey allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of the Andean highlands before continuing their journey to the lakeside city of Puno.

Included in the Tour

As part of the Cusco to Puno travel experience, the tour package includes several key components.

Travelers will enjoy a buffet-style typical lunch during the journey. The tour also includes the services of a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who’ll provide insights throughout the day.

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned bus, and all entrance fees to the attractions are covered. Complimentary drinks are available, and souvenir photos can be purchased if desired.

While gratuities aren’t included, the tour offers a comprehensive experience for a single price.

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized and comfortable journey from Cusco to Puno.

Accessibility and Recommendations

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness.

Pregnant travelers and those with serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to join the excursion. Travelers with back problems should also exercise caution.

The tour involves some walking and moderate exertion, so a decent level of mobility is required. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Passport details are needed for all participants.

Guest Reviews

The Cusco to Puno tour has earned a stellar 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews.

Travelers have praised the friendliness and informative nature of the guide, who provided ample time for photos. The quality of the included buffet lunch has also received high marks.

One reviewer highlighted the guide’s deep knowledge of the sites visited, including the Sistine Chapel of the Americas in Andahuaylillas and the ancient Inca ruins of Raqchi.

Departure and Pickup Details

The Cusco to Puno tour departs daily at 7:00 am, with hotel pickups taking place between 6:20 am and 6:35 am.

The tour starts at 6:30 am and is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers per group. Passengers will be transported by an air-conditioned bus, with a driver and English-speaking guide accompanying the group.

The inclusive package covers a one-way shared transfer, along with free drinks and entrance fees to the scheduled attractions.

Travelers are advised to provide their passport details in advance, as the tour isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations or medical conditions.

Additional Tour Information

Travelers should note that the Cusco to Puno tour is not wheelchair accessible. A moderate physical fitness level is required, as the tour is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. Vegetarian options are available upon request. Passport details are required for all participants prior to the tour. Souvenir photos are available for purchase, but gratuities are not included in the tour cost.

Additional Information
Not wheelchair accessible Vegetarian option available Passport details required
Not recommended for certain conditions Souvenir photos available Gratuities not included
Moderate physical fitness required

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

The tour allows bringing your own food, but a buffet lunch is already included in the price. It’s recommended to consult the tour operator if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences.

Are There Any Restroom Stops During the Transfer?

Yes, the tour includes scheduled stops for restrooms during the transfer. According to the itinerary, the bus will make regular breaks to allow travelers to use the facilities along the way.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this tour. However, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Layering is advised as the weather can vary throughout the day.

Can I Purchase Extra Souvenirs at the Sites?

Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase during the tour. Additional souvenirs can also be bought at the various sites visited, such as the Pucara Museum and the Raqchi archaeological site.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the tour. Travelers can pay an additional fee to have a private transfer rather than a shared one. This provides more personalized service and flexibility during the journey.

Recap

The Cusco to Puno transfer offers an enriching journey through the Andean highlands. Travelers can admire the stunning Sistine Chapel of the Americas, explore the impressive Raqchi archaeological site, and enjoy a traditional Peruvian buffet lunch. With a knowledgeable guide and a small group, this personalized experience provides ample opportunities for discovery and photography, making it a memorable adventure.