Cusco: Route of the Sun + 2-Day Excursion in Puno With Hotel

Peru’s Cusco region and the nearby Lake Titicaca offer a remarkable cultural experience. This tour takes travelers on a journey through stunning landscapes, from colonial Andahuaylillas to the iconic Uros Islands. Visitors will enjoy local traditions, hike to ancient temples, and savor regional cuisine. With the convenience of hotel accommodations in Puno, this comprehensive excursion promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to discover the heart of Peru’s rich heritage.

Key Points

• A 3-day Cusco: Route of the Sun excursion priced from $220.00 per person, offering a flexible reservation policy and free cancellation.
• The itinerary includes stops at Andahuaylillas church, Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, Pukara Museum, and stunning Andes views at La Raya.
• The tour features a 2-day excursion to Puno, including visits to Uros Islands and Taquile Island with a traditional lunch.
• The final day involves a boat journey to Amantani Island, with opportunities to hike to temples, stay in a traditional family home, and enjoy authentic regional cuisine.
• The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, providing a comprehensive exploration of Cusco’s cultural and historical highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This 3-day Cusco: Route of the Sun excursion is priced from $220.00 per person.

The tour offers a flexible reservation policy, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later. Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The experience is delivered in both English and Spanish, catering to a diverse audience.

The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of participants.

With a duration of 3 days, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive exploration of Cusco’s cultural and historical highlights, as well as a 2-day excursion to the picturesque Puno region.

Itinerary Overview

The tour begins with an early 6:00 AM departure from Cusco by tourist bus.

The first stops include the Andahuaylillas’ "Sistine Chapel of America" church, the Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, and the Pukara Museum.

Next, the group reaches the highest point at La Raya with stunning Andes views. In Puno, they transfer to their hotel.

On Day 2, they visit the floating Uros Islands and hike on Taquile Island, enjoying a traditional lunch.

On Day 3, they travel to Amantani Island, hike to ancient temples, and learn about local customs from a host family before returning to Puno.

Route of the Sun

As the tour departs Cusco in the early morning, travelers embark on the "Route of the Sun" excursion. Along the way, they stop at several notable sites, including:

| Site | Highlights |

| — | — |

| Andahuaylillas | The "Sistine Chapel of America", a stunning 17th-century church |

| Raqchi | The Temple of Wiracocha, an impressive Inca archaeological site |

| La Raya | The highest point of the journey, offering breathtaking Andes vistas |

| Pukara Museum | Pre-Inca sculptures and ceramics showcasing the region’s rich heritage |

Arriving in Puno, travelers transfer to their hotel, ready to explore the wonders of Lake Titicaca on the next day of the journey.

Uros Islands and Taquile Island

Day 2 of the excursion begins with a transfer to the port, where travelers board a boat to explore the iconic Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca.

The islands are home to indigenous families who live on floating reed platforms. Visitors interact with the locals, learning about their unique way of life.

After visiting the Uros Islands, the boat sails to Taquile Island. Hikers ascend to the island’s peak, taking in panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

In the afternoon, travelers enjoy a traditional lunch and free time to browse the local handicrafts before departing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Amantani Island

On the final day of the excursion, travelers depart Puno by boat for the approximately 3-hour journey to Amantani Island.

Upon arrival, they hike to the island’s iconic Pachamama and Pachatata temples, offering panoramic views of the breathtaking Lake Titicaca.

Next, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the local culture by staying in a traditional family home, learning about their customs and way of life.

Lunch features authentic regional dishes, providing a true taste of Amantani.

After this enriching cultural experience, the group departs the island and returns to Puno, concluding the memorable 3-day excursion.

Cultural Experiences

Taking in the local culture is a highlight of this excursion.

Visitors can look forward to the following cultural experiences:

1. Interacting with families on the Uros Floating Islands to learn about their unique way of life.

2. Visiting a traditional family home on Amantani Island and partaking in customs like traditional dress.

3. Enjoying a homemade lunch featuring local dishes on Taquile Island, prepared by the islanders themselves.

4. Witnessing ancient Inca and pre-Inca cultural sites, such as the Temple of Wiracocha and the Pukara Museum.

These intimate cultural interactions provide a rich, authentic glimpse into the vibrant heritage of the region.

Historical Sites

Along the Route of the Sun, visitors will discover a rich tapestry of historical sites that showcase the enduring legacy of the Inca and pre-Inca civilizations. The tour includes stops at the Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its ornate baroque interior. At Raqchi, visitors can explore the impressive Temple of Wiracocha, a testament to the engineering prowess of the Inca. The tour also visits the Pukara Museum, where ancient pre-Inca sculptures and ceramics provide insights into the region’s cultural heritage.

| Site | Significance |

| — | — |

| Andahuaylillas Church | Ornate baroque interior, "Sistine Chapel of America" |

| Temple of Wiracocha | Impressive Inca engineering |

| Pukara Museum | Pre-Inca sculptures and ceramics |

Natural Beauty

As travelers journey along the Route of the Sun, they’re treated to stunning vistas of the Andes mountain range.

The tour features several highlights showcasing the natural beauty of the region:

The tour features several highlights showcasing the natural beauty of the Andes mountain range on the Route of the Sun.

1. The highest point at La Raya, offering sweeping views of the majestic Andes.

2. The shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake.

3. The lush, terraced landscapes of Taquile Island, home to traditional Quechua communities.

4. The sacred temples of Amantani Island, tucked away amidst the rugged Andean terrain.

These breathtaking natural settings provide a stunning backdrop to the cultural experiences throughout the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Hotel Accommodations Like on This Tour?

The hotel accommodation for this tour is included on the first night in Puno. Guests will be provided with a comfortable hotel stay to rest after the journey from Cusco.

Can I Extend My Stay in Puno or Cusco After the Tour?

You can extend your stay in Puno or Cusco after the tour. The tour operator can assist with arranging additional hotel nights and transportation to extend your trip as desired. Let them know if you’d like to customize your itinerary.

How Do I Get to Cusco From the Tour End Point in Puno?

To get to Cusco from Puno, you can arrange separate return transportation. The tour doesn’t include transportation back to Cusco, but you can book it as an optional service if you want to extend your stay in Puno.

Is There an Option to Hike Instead of Taking the Bus on the Tour?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to hike from the tour’s end point in Puno back to Cusco. The itinerary only mentions transportation by tourist bus from Cusco to Puno. Hiking that route isn’t mentioned as part of the tour.

Can I Visit Any Additional Sites or Activities During My Free Time?

Yes, you can visit additional sites or activities during your free time. The tour provides flexibility for you to explore on your own and experience more of the local culture and attractions in the area.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour of Peru’s Cusco and Puno regions offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the country’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local communities. From the awe-inspiring ruins of the Inca Empire to the serene islands of Lake Titicaca, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey that will leave a lasting impression on travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: