The Full-Day Tour Sun Route from Cusco offers an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley, blending stunning landscapes with rich cultural heritage. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the remarkable Raqchi Incan temple, showcasing exceptional architecture, and gain insights into local traditions at the Museum of Puraca. With an expert English-speaking guide, a buffet lunch, and convenient transportation, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. However, the true highlight of the journey may lie in the breathtaking vistas that await at La Raya Pass, where the natural beauty of the region truly shines.

Key Points

Full-Day Tour Sun Route From Cusco - Key Points

  • This full-day excursion from Cusco explores the Sacred Valley, including the Raqchi Incan temple, La Raya Pass, and the Museum of Puraca.
  • The tour includes a guided visit to the ornate San Pedro de Andahuaylillas church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes."
  • Visitors will learn about the Incan architectural prowess at the Raqchi temple and gain insight into the region’s cultural heritage.
  • The tour offers breathtaking views of the Andean landscape from the high-altitude La Raya Pass and opportunities to discover indigenous cultures at the Puraca Museum.
  • The tour includes transportation, a buffet lunch, and an English-speaking guide, providing a comprehensive and convenient experience for exploring the Sacred Valley.

Tour Overview

Full-Day Tour Sun Route From Cusco - Tour Overview

Offering a comprehensive experience from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, this full-day tour showcases the region’s captivating Incan heritage and natural wonders.

Rated 4.5 by past travelers, the Sun Route excursion takes visitors on a one-way journey from Cusco to Puno. Highlights include a guided tour of the Incan temple in Raqchi and exploration of lesser-known Sacred Valley attractions like the La Raya Pass and Museum of Puraca.

Travelers will also visit the charming church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas and enjoy an included buffet lunch at a local restaurant.

Transportation, fees, and an English-speaking guide are all provided, making this a convenient and immersive way to discover the Sacred Valley.

Itinerary Highlights

Full-Day Tour Sun Route From Cusco - Itinerary Highlights

The Sun Route tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the Sacred Valley‘s captivating Incan heritage.

It begins with a visit to the stunning church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, renowned for its ornate interior.

Next, guests explore the impressive Incan temple in Raqchi, gaining insight into the architectural prowess of the empire.

After a delightful lunch, the tour ventures to the La Raya Pass, offering breathtaking vistas, followed by a stop at the Museum of Puraca to discover lesser-known Sacred Valley attractions.

Throughout the day, an English-speaking guide provides fascinating commentary, enriching the overall experience.

Inclusions

Full-Day Tour Sun Route From Cusco - Inclusions

What does the Sun Route tour include?

The tour includes an English-speaking guide to provide expert commentary throughout the excursion.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey.

A buffet lunch at a local restaurant is included, allowing travelers to sample regional cuisine.

All fees and taxes are covered in the tour price, so there are no hidden costs.

Plus, the tour bus is equipped with restroom facilities for convenience.

Meeting and Pickup

For this Sun Route tour, pickup is available from hotels located within Cusco’s historical center or from a specified hotel.

The tour starts at 6:30 AM, so you’ll be notified of your exact pickup time one day prior to the experience.

Once you’re picked up, you’ll be transported to the bus station in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour is conducted in English by a knowledgeable guide.

It’s important to have a valid passport with you on the travel day.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps, though infant seats are available.

Exploring San Pedro De Andahuaylillas

Full-Day Tour Sun Route From Cusco - Exploring San Pedro De Andahuaylillas

Your first stop on the Sun Route tour is the charming church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas.

This colonial-era church boasts intricate frescoes and ornate carvings, earning it the nickname "the Sistine Chapel of the Andes."

Your guide will lead you through the church, highlighting the impressive artwork and architecture that reflect the blending of indigenous and Spanish influences.

You’ll learn about the church’s history and the significance of its unique design.

As you explore this hidden gem, you’ll be struck by the beauty and craftsmanship that have endured for centuries, offering a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

Visiting the Incan Temple in Raqchi

Continuing the Sun Route tour, visitors explore the impressive Incan temple complex in Raqchi. Guided by an expert, they wander through the well-preserved ruins, marveling at the scale and sophistication of the architecture.

The central temple, dedicated to the deity Viracocha, is a standout, with its unique double-story design and ornate stonework. Visitors learn about the temple’s religious significance and its role in the Incan empire.

They also discover the complex’s other structures, including housing, storehouses, and agricultural terraces, gaining insights into the daily life of the Incan people. This stop on the Sun Route offers a fascinating glimpse into the engineering prowess and spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization.

Discovering La Raya Pass and Puraca Museum

Full-Day Tour Sun Route From Cusco - Discovering La Raya Pass and Puraca Museum

As the tour progresses, travelers reach the stunning La Raya Pass, a high-altitude gateway that separates the Cusco and Puno regions.

At an elevation of over 4,300 meters, the pass offers panoramic views of the rugged Andean landscape.

The tour then continues to the Museum of Puraca, a lesser-known attraction that provides insights into the region’s indigenous cultures and traditions.

Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing traditional textiles, pottery, and other crafts, as well as learn about the area’s rich history and archaeological significance.

This stop offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley, beyond the more well-known Incan sites.

Additional Information

Full-Day Tour Sun Route From Cusco - Additional Information

This tour offers a range of helpful inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Passengers will receive confirmation upon booking, and pickup information will be provided a day in advance. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers without serious medical conditions. Infants can join, but they must sit on laps. A valid passport is required, and passport details must be provided for all participants. Cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour start are free of charge, and a lowest price guarantee is offered.

Provision Details
Pickup From hotels in the historical center or a specified hotel
Start Time 6:30 AM
Confirmation Received at booking
Accessibility Not wheelchair accessible
Passport Valid passport needed on travel day, details required

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at the Tour Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the tour sites, though visitors should be respectful and follow any specific guidelines provided by the guide. Some sites may have restrictions on flash photography or tripod use.

What Type of Clothing Is Recommended for the Tour?

The recommended clothing for the tour includes comfortable, layered clothing that can be adjusted for the changing weather conditions. Sturdy walking shoes, a light jacket, and sun protection such as a hat and sunglasses are advisable.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, but the tour provider doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions. Participants with dietary needs should notify the tour company in advance to accommodate their requirements.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

The tour can be customized to your preferences. The operator offers flexibility in the itinerary, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests. They’ll work with you to ensure the tour meets your needs.

Are There Any Health or Physical Requirements to Participate?

There are no serious medical conditions required to participate in this tour. However, infants must sit on laps, and infant seats are available. Participants should be able to get in and out of the air-conditioned vehicle.

Recap

The Full-Day Tour Sun Route from Cusco provides an immersive cultural experience, blending stunning landscapes and rich heritage. With an expert guide, travelers will explore the ornate San Pedro de Andahuaylillas church, the remarkable Raqchi Incan temple, and the breathtaking La Raya Pass, while gaining insights into local traditions at the Museum of Puraca. This tour offers an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley‘s natural beauty and Incan legacy.