The "Route of the Sun" tour from Cusco to Puno offers an unforgettable 3-day journey through stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Travelers will explore fascinating sites, enjoy a sumptuous lunch, and ascend to the breathtaking Raya Pass. But the real highlight lies in the unique encounters with local communities on Lake Titicaca. Here, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous Uros and Amantani people, and maybe even discover something unexpected about themselves along the way.

Key Points

3-day tour from Cusco to Puno featuring visits to archaeological sites, the Raya Pass, and Lake Titicaca with exploration of the Uros and Amantani Islands.
Guided boat tours, cultural exchanges with local families, and hikes on Amantani and Taquile Islands are included in the 2-day Lake Titicaca experience.
Pricing starts at $250 per person, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and no upfront payment required.
Accommodation for one night in Puno and one night with a local family on Amantani Island, as well as an experienced bilingual tour guide, are provided.
The tour includes transportation by bus from Cusco to Puno and motorboat from Uros to Taquile, but excludes unspecified services, snacks, drinks, and additional meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Route of the Sun Tour from Cusco offers a 3-day journey that combines a bus tour from Cusco to Puno with a 2-day exploration of Lake Titicaca‘s Uros and Amantani Islands.

Priced from $250 per person, the tour includes all transfers, guided excursions, transportation, accommodation, and select meals.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

While the tour’s duration is 3 days, guests can reserve their spot without an upfront payment, paying later.

This comprehensive package allows visitors to experience the highlights of the Cusco-Puno route and enjoy the local culture of Lake Titicaca.

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Day 1: Cusco to Puno

On the first day, the tour departs from Cusco after breakfast, embarking on an approximately 8-hour bus journey to Puno.

Along the way, there are four notable excursions. First, the group visits Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America."

Next, they explore the archaeological site of Raqchi.

Continuing on, they stop for a buffet lunch in Sicuani.

The bus then climbs to the Raya Pass, reaching an impressive elevation of 4,335 meters above sea level.

The final stop is the Pukara museum before arriving in Puno, where travelers check into their hotel for the night.

Uros and Amantani Islands

On the second day, travelers transfer from their hotel to the Lake Titicaca port in the morning.

They embark on a guided boat tour to the Uros Islands, an ancient community of over 40 floating islands made of totora reeds. After a 2-hour guided tour, they continue to Amantani Island, where they’ll stay with local families.

In the afternoon, they walk to the Pachatata and Pacha Mama ritual centers to enjoy sunset views.

In the evening, they’ve dinner with their host families and participate in a cultural exchange.

Taquile Island and Return to Puno

Travelers begin their farewell breakfast with their host families on Amantani Island.

After the meal, they transfer to Taquile Island, a 40-minute boat ride away.

On the island, they:

Walk to the central square and craft center
Enjoy a local lunch at a restaurant
Take time to explore and interact with the residents

The descent back to the boat involves 530 steps.

The return boat trip to Puno takes approximately 4:30 PM, concluding this immersive cultural experience.

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Inclusions

The tour includes all transfers to the hotel, terminal, stations, and attractions.

It covers the Route of the Sun, Uros, Amantani, and Taquile tours.

Transportation includes a bus from Cusco to Puno and a motorboat from Uros to Taquile.

An experienced, bilingual tour guide accompanies the group.

Entrance fees to all attractions are included.

Accommodation is provided for one night in Puno and one night with a local family on Amantani Island.

Meals include one continental breakfast, two lunches, and one dinner on Amantani.

Any services or food not specified are excluded.

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Exclusions

While the tour includes a comprehensive set of services, there are certain items not covered by the package.

These exclusions are:

Any services not specified in the inclusions list
Food and beverages not mentioned, such as snacks, drinks, or meals outside of the provided continental breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner

Travelers should plan accordingly and budget for these additional expenses.

The tour’s focus is on providing a rich cultural experience, with transportation, activities, and key meals included to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Cancellation Policy

Guests can cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows travelers to plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

After the 24-hour window, no refunds are provided. However, the tour operator offers the option to reschedule the tour for a future date, subject to availability.

This cancellation policy is designed to balance the needs of guests with the logistical requirements of the tour. Travelers are encouraged to review the policy carefully when booking to ensure it aligns with their travel plans.

Reserve Now & Pay Later

This tour offers a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, allowing travelers to secure their spot without an upfront payment.

This flexible booking process provides several benefits:

Guaranteed availability: Reserving in advance ensures your spot is saved on the tour.
No commitment until later: You can book now and pay closer to your travel dates.
Stress-free planning: Secure your tour without worrying about immediate payment.
Refund policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

This convenient booking method makes planning your Route of the Sun tour easy and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do We Need a Special Permit to Visit the Islands?

No special permit is required to visit the islands on this tour. The package includes guided boat tours to the Uros and Taquile Islands, where travelers can explore the traditional communities and culture.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cultural Exchange?

The cultural exchange on Amantani Island has a casual, comfortable dress code. Participants should wear clothing that allows them to move freely and participate in any activities during the culture experience with the local families.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Trips?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the boat trips. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or recommendations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the tour activities. Guests of all ages can participate in the boat tours, island visits, and cultural experiences included in the itinerary.

Can We Book Additional Excursions During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can book additional excursions during the tour. The tour operator offers optional activities that can be arranged upon request, such as a ride in totora reed boats on the Uros Islands.

The Sum Up

The "Route of the Sun" tour offers an immersive journey that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and affordable pricing. Travelers can expect to explore notable sites, enjoy a boat trip on Lake Titicaca, and stay with local families, creating an unforgettable experience. With inclusions like meals and transportation, this tour provides an accessible way to discover the beauty and culture of the Cusco-Puno region.

From Cusco: Route of the Sun From Cusco + 2-Day Tour in Puno