Route of the Sun From Cusco – Puno

The Route of the Sun from Cusco to Puno is a captivating journey that takes travelers through the heart of the Andes. This one-day tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of the region. From visiting historic churches to exploring ancient archaeological sites, participants can expect a well-curated experience led by knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious newcomer, this route promises to leave a lasting impression. But the true magic lies in what awaits just beyond the horizon, as the journey unfolds and reveals its hidden treasures.

Key Points

• The tour explores the "Route of the Sun" from Cusco to Puno, visiting cultural and archaeological sites along the Andean landscape.
• Highlights include the Church of San Pedro Apostle, the Laki archaeological site, and the Paso de la Raya viewpoint at over 4,300 meters altitude.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional bilingual guide, buffet lunch, and entrance fees for a seamless experience.
• The tour is limited to small groups of up to 15 participants, providing a more personalized and intimate experience.
• Participants must be in good physical condition, as the tour may involve moderate physical activity and high-altitude environments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Route of the Sun from Cusco to Puno is a popular 1-day tour option priced from $85.00 per person.

With a duration of 1 day, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also reserve their spot and pay later, making it a convenient choice.

The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, transportation by bus, a professional tour guide fluent in Spanish and English, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees.

Plus, travel insurance is provided, ensuring a worry-free experience. The tour is limited to small groups of up to 15 participants, making it a more personalized and intimate adventure.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing from the bus station at the scheduled time, the tour takes participants on a captivating journey, starting with a visit to the Church of San Pedro Apostle in Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America" due to its stunning frescoes and ornate interior. Next, the group explores the archaeological site of Laki, the remains of an ancient temple dedicated to the god Viracocha. After a local lunch, the tour pauses at the Paso de la Raya, an altitude of over 4,300 meters, for breathtaking photo opportunities. The final stop is the Pucará Interpretation Center, where visitors learn about the rich Andean civilization.

Itinerary Highlights
Church of San Pedro	Pucará Interpre-
Apostle	tation Center
Archaeological Site	Stunning Photos
of Laki	at Paso de la
Local Lunch	Raya

Included Services

The tour’s included services provide a comprehensive and convenient experience for participants.

Hotel pickup in Cusco ensures a seamless start to the journey. Transportation by bus allows travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic route.

The professional tour guide, available in both Spanish and English, offers in-depth insights and commentary throughout the day. A buffet lunch at a local restaurant provides a tasty and authentic dining experience.

Entrance fees to all the sites visited are covered, and travel insurance offers additional peace of mind.

With these thoughtful inclusions, participants can focus on seeing the cultural and historical wonders of the Route of the Sun.

Participant Information

Small groups are limited to 15 participants on this tour, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, people with respiratory issues, pre-existing medical conditions, or those who’ve recently undergone surgery. This is due to the challenging terrain and high altitudes the route covers.

Participants must be in good physical condition to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural sites along the way.

Safety is a top priority, and the tour operator takes measures to accommodate guests’ needs and abilities within the group size constraints.

Travelers should consider their fitness level before booking this immersive journey through the Andes.

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Important Guidelines

Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited on the tour.

Participants are expected to observe the local flora and fauna along the route with care and respect.

The tour give you an authentic experience of Andean culture, including the unique Torito de Pucará tradition.

Travelers should be mindful of their actions and interactions to ensure they leave a positive impact on the visited sites and communities.

Safety is of paramount importance, and the tour guidelines are designed to protect both the participants and the fragile environments.

Adherence to these guidelines will enhance the overall enjoyment and enrichment of the Route of the Sun experience.

Starting the Journey

Departing from the centrally located bus station in Cusco, the Route of the Sun journey towards Puno commences with a sense of anticipation and discovery.

Travelers board the comfortable bus at the scheduled time, eager to embark on an immersive cultural experience. The knowledgeable guide provides insights and historical context as the bus winds through the scenic Andean landscape.

Passing through small villages, the group takes in the local architecture, traditions, and way of life. With each kilometer covered, the anticipation builds for the remarkable sights and experiences that await along this captivating route across the southern Peruvian highlands.

Exploring Cultural Gems

As the bus continues its winding journey through the Andean terrain, the group’s attention turns to the first cultural gem on the itinerary – the Church of San Pedro Apostle in Andahuaylillas.

Often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America," this 17th-century church captivates visitors with its stunning baroque-style interior adorned with vibrant frescoes, intricate woodcarvings, and gilded altars.

Next, the tour explores the archaeological site of Laki, where the remains of the temple dedicated to the Andean deity Viracocha stand as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Lunch at a local restaurant allows the group to savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine before ascending to the Paso de la Raya, a breathtaking viewpoint at an altitude of over 4,300 meters.

1. Admire the baroque splendor of the "Sistine Chapel of America"
2. Uncover the ancient secrets of the Laki archaeological site
3. Indulge in the flavors of Peruvian cuisine during a local lunch
4. Marvel at the panoramic vistas from the Paso de la Raya viewpoint

Tour Logistics

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Cusco, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s adventure.

Travelers will then board a comfortable bus for the scenic journey, with a professional guide providing insights along the way.

During the tour, you will visit several cultural highlights, including the stunning Church of San Pedro Apostle and the archaeological site of Laki.

Lunch at a local restaurant is included, as well as entrance fees and travel insurance.

The tour is limited to small groups of up to 15 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions or mobility issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Arequipa?

Currently, there isn’t an option to extend the tour from Cusco to Puno to Arequipa. The tour focuses solely on the route from Cusco to Puno and doesn’t include any additional stops or destinations beyond that specific itinerary.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the bus, but the tour company recommends enjoying the included buffet lunch. Consuming outside food and beverages is permitted, as long as it doesn’t disrupt the tour experience for other participants.

Is There a Discount for Students or Senior Citizens?

The tour operator offers discounted rates for students and seniors. However, the specific discount percentage is not provided in the information given. Customers would need to inquire directly with the tour operator to confirm the available discounts.

Can I Take a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can book a private tour instead of a group tour. The operator offers private tours at an additional cost, allowing you to have a more personalized experience with your own guide and schedule.

What Is the Policy for Lost or Stolen Belongings During the Tour?

The tour provider’s policy is that they’re not responsible for any lost or stolen belongings during the tour. Participants are advised to keep their valuables safe and secure at all times while on the tour.

Recap

The Route of the Sun from Cusco to Puno is a captivating journey that takes travelers through stunning Andean landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and significant archaeological sites. With professional bilingual guides, small group sizes, and inclusive services, participants can enjoy the vibrant history and traditions of the region, creating an unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: