Cusco and Puno are two of Peru’s most captivating destinations, each brimming with rich history and breathtaking landscapes. This tour promises an unforgettable journey, seamlessly connecting the two cities through the awe-inspiring "Route of the Sun." From cultural interactions on the Uros Floating Islands to the tranquil beauty of Lake Titicaca, travelers can expect an immersive experience that showcases the best of the Andean region. With comfortable accommodations and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a seamless way to explore the heart of Peru.

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Key Points

The tour offers a two-day experience from Cusco to Puno, including round-trip tourist bus, hotel accommodation, select meals, and entrance fees for $240 per person.
The first day includes stops at the Church of San Pedro Apostol, Temple of Wiracocha, and arrival in Puno with a visit to the Pukara Museum.
The second day involves exploring Lake Titicaca, visiting the Floating Islands of the Uros, and hiking on Taquile Island to learn about the local culture.
An optional third day is available for the return to Cusco, with the same initial route and the choice of direct return by train or plane.
The tour includes comprehensive transportation, meals, and entrance fees, but excludes personal expenses, tips, and travel insurance, with English and Spanish-speaking live tour guides available for small groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Cusco: Route of the Sun tour offers a comprehensive two-day experience, featuring a guided journey from Cusco to Puno with stops at historical and cultural sites along the way.

The tour is priced at $240 per person and includes round-trip tourist bus transportation, one night’s hotel accommodation in Puno, select meals, and entrance fees.

It’s a great value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, making it easy to plan and budget for this immersive exploration of the Peruvian highlands.

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Itinerary – Day 1: Cusco to Puno

The tour departs from Cusco at 6:00 AM, heading out on a tourist bus.

The first stop is the Church of San Pedro Apostol in Andahuaylillas, known for its ornate interior.

Next, the group visits the Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, an impressive Inca archaeological site.

Lunch is served in Sicuani, followed by a stop at La Raya, a high-altitude pass offering panoramic views of the Andes.

The final destination is Puno, where the group visits the Pukara Museum and transfers to their hotel.

Itinerary – Day 2: Lake Titicaca Exploration

After arriving in Puno the previous day, the tour moves on to explore the iconic Lake Titicaca. The group transfers to the port for a visit to the Floating Islands of the Uros, where they can interact with local families and learn about their unique way of life.

Next, they navigate to Taquile Island, known for its scenic views and rich cultural traditions.
Upon arrival, the group embarks on a hike to take in the island’s beauty and learn about its history and customs.
A traditional lunch is served on Taquile, allowing the travelers to savor the local cuisine.
Afterward, participants have free time to explore the island’s artisanal crafts.
Finally, the tour returns to Puno, concluding the day’s activities.

Optional Return to Cusco

If travelers wish to return to Cusco, they can do so on the third day of the tour.

The tour departs Puno at 6:00 AM, following the same route and stops as the initial journey or providing the option for a direct return by train or plane. This allows guests flexibility in their departure schedule.

The bus transfer back to Cusco takes approximately 10 hours, including breaks at sites like the La Raya viewpoint.

Whether choosing the full route or direct transport, the return to Cusco completes the 2-day Cusco to Puno adventure.

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Inclusions and Additional Information

This tour includes comprehensive transportation, meals, and entrance fees. The package covers:

Tourist bus transportation from Cusco to Puno
Lunch in Sicuani and traditional lunch on Taquile Island
Transfers to the hotel in Puno
1 night of hotel accommodation
Entrance fees to additional sites

However, the tour excludes personal expenses, tips, and travel insurance.

Arrangements for the return transportation to Cusco can be made separately. An English and Spanish-speaking live tour guide is available throughout the tour, which is limited to small groups of 10 participants.

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Explore the Andean Landscape

What better way to explore the breathtaking Andean landscape than through the Cusco: Route of the Sun Tour?

This immersive experience takes you on a journey through the stunning Andes, from the historic church in Andahuaylillas to the impressive Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi.

Along the way, you’ll witness the grandeur of La Raya, a stunning mountain pass that offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Witness the grandeur of La Raya, a stunning mountain pass offering panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks.

The tour also includes a visit to the Pukara Museum, where you can admire the region’s rich pre-Inca cultural heritage.

Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty and ancient wonders of the Andes.

Discover the Uros Floating Islands

After exploring the stunning Andean landscape, the tour now takes travelers to the remarkable Uros Floating Islands on Lake Titicaca.

Here, visitors will:

Board boats to navigate the floating islands made of totora reeds
Interact with the indigenous Uros people and learn about their unique way of life
Witness the construction of the islands and traditional homes
Observe traditional crafts and textiles being made by the islanders
Purchase handmade souvenirs directly from the local artisans

This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the fascinating culture and traditions of the Uros people.

Experience Taquile Island’s Culture

After navigating to Taquile Island, visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of this remote Andean community.

They’ll hike up the island, taking in scenic vistas of Lake Titicaca. At the top, they’ll explore the island’s traditional way of life, including weaving demonstrations by the skilled locals.

Visitors can browse the vibrant handicrafts and learn about the islanders’ unique customs. A traditional Taquile lunch offers a taste of the region’s cuisine.

Visitors can browse vibrant handicrafts and learn about the islanders’ unique customs. A traditional Taquile lunch offers a taste of the region’s cuisine.

With its stunning natural beauty and enduring cultural traditions, Taquile Island provides an immersive glimpse into an authentic Peruvian highland experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The minimum group size for this tour is 10 participants. The tour description specifies that "small groups [are] limited to 10 participants", ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience for the travelers.

Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a solo traveler. The small group size is limited to 10 participants, so solo travelers are welcomed. The tour provides a cost-effective way for individuals to explore the Puno region.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Hotel Accommodation?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the hotel accommodation. Travelers can choose a higher-end hotel at an additional cost. This allows more flexibility to customize the tour and accommodate individual preferences.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Unfortunately, this tour doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price of $240 per person is fixed regardless of age or student status. You’ll need to pay the full amount to book this tour.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?

Yes, the tour provider can accommodate special dietary requests like vegetarian meals. Travelers just need to inform the provider of any dietary needs when booking the tour or at least 72 hours prior to the trip.

The Sum Up

This two-day tour from Cusco to Puno offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Andean landscape. Travelers will discover the Uros Floating Islands, explore the cultural heritage of Taquile Island, and enjoy comfortable hotel stays. With a knowledgeable bilingual guide, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience along the breathtaking "Route of the Sun" for just $240 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here: