Day Trip, Sun Route Circuit Between Cusco and Puno

The sun-drenched route between Cusco and Puno offers travelers an immersive cultural journey through Peru’s southern highlands. Covering an impressive 10-hour circuit, this day trip showcases the region’s awe-inspiring Andean heritage, from the iconic Sistine Chapel of America to the ancient Raqchi Temple. With a comprehensive itinerary and a delectable lunch, the tour promises an enriching exploration of this captivating corner of the country. Those seeking to uncover the sacred traditions and high-altitude landscapes of the Andes won’t want to miss this remarkable day trip.

Good To Know

• This 10-hour day trip circuit explores top cultural and historical sites between Cusco and Puno, including the "Sistine Chapel of America" and Raqchi Temple.
• The tour provides a rundown of Andean civilization and sacred worship practices, with guided visits to key attractions.
• Priced at $89.99 per person, the tour includes transportation, bilingual guides, admission fees, and a buffet lunch, offering a hassle-free experience.
• Highlights of the itinerary include a 45-minute guided tour of Andahuaylillas Church, a 45-minute tour of Raqchi Temple, and a photo stop at Abra La Raya.
• The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 5-out-of-5 rating, praised for its organization, cultural exposure, and informative bilingual guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This day trip circuit between Cusco and Puno offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru’s southern highlands.

Lasting 10 hours, the tour covers key sites like the Sistine Chapel of America, the ancient Raqchi Temple, and the Lithic Museum of Pukara.

Priced from $89.99 per person, it features free cancellation and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

Bilingual guides, transportation, admission fees, and a buffet lunch are all included, providing a comprehensive and convenient way to discover this beautiful region.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip circuit between Cusco and Puno starts at the Terminal Privado Turismo Mer in Cusco and the Terminal Privado TURISMO MER.

The day trip circuit between Cusco and Puno starts at the Terminal Privado Turismo Mer in Cusco and the Terminal Privado TURISMO MER.

Key highlights of the itinerary include:

1. A 45-minute guided tour of the Saint Peter the Apostle of Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its stunning frescoes.

2. A 45-minute guided tour of the Raqchi Temple, an impressive Inca archaeological site featuring the temple of the god Wiracocha.

3. A 25-minute photo stop at Abra La Raya, a mountain pass that reaches over 14,100 feet (4,300 meters) in elevation.

Included Services

The day trip between Cusco and Puno includes several key services.

Transportation is provided by bus, and a bilingual tour guide accompanies the group, offering commentary in both English and Spanish.

A buffet lunch is included, ensuring travelers are well-fed during the journey.

Admission to the key sites – the San Pedro de Andahuaylillas temple, the Raqchi Archaeological site, and the optional Lithic Museum of Pukara – is also covered.

While hotel pickup and drop-off can be booked separately, these core services make for a comprehensive and hassle-free experience exploring the historical and cultural treasures along the route.

Andean Civilisation and Sacred Worship

Exploring the rich Andean civilization and sacred worship practices is a key highlight of the day trip circuit between Cusco and Puno.

The tour provides insight into the region’s storied past:

1. Visiting the Sistine Chapel of America, the Saint Peter the Apostle of Andahuaylillas church, showcases exquisite 17th-century murals and religious art.

2. Touring the Raqchi Temple, an Inca archaeological site, reveals the architectural prowess and religious beliefs of the ancient civilization.

3. Stopping at the Lithic Museum of Pukara offers a glimpse into the ritual and spiritual practices of the pre-Inca Pukara culture.

Taking in these cultural and historical treasures enriches the day trip experience.

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High-Altitude Terrain

Reaching over 14,100 feet (4,300 meters) in elevation, the high-altitude terrain traversed during the day trip circuit between Cusco and Puno presents both remarkable vistas and unique physiological challenges.

Travelers may experience symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and breathlessness due to the lower oxygen levels. Staying hydrated and pacing oneself are essential.

Yet, the ethereal landscapes, with snow-capped peaks and rolling hills, offer a humbling perspective on the immense scale of the Andes.

Visitors can take in the dramatic shift in scenery and climate, from the lush valleys around Cusco to the stark, windswept highlands near Puno.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive feedback about the day trip circuit between Cusco and Puno, with a 5-out-of-5 rating based on 3 reviews.

Key highlights include:

Diverse cultural exposure: Guests appreciate the opportunity to explore historical and cultural treasures, from the Sistine Chapel of America to the ancient temple of Wiracocha.

1. Enjoyable travel experience: Customers praise the well-organized tour, preventing trip fatigue by offering a nice variety of places to visit.

2. Diverse cultural exposure: Guests appreciate the opportunity to explore historical and cultural treasures, from the Sistine Chapel of America to the ancient temple of Wiracocha.

3. Informative guides: Bilingual tour guides receive high marks for their ability to share insights about Andean civilization and sacred worship.

Getting to the Starting Point

To start the day trip circuit between Cusco and Puno, travelers can make their way to the designated starting locations.

The trip departs from two terminals in Cusco – the Terminal Privado Turismo Mer and the Terminal Privado TURISMO MER.

Travelers have the option to book separate hotel pickup and drop-off services to conveniently reach these terminals.

Once at the starting points, passengers will board the bus for the day-long journey through the scenic Andean landscape, visiting historical and cultural sites along the way before arriving at the Puno bus station around 5:30 PM.

What to Bring and Wear

When embarking on this day trip circuit between Cusco and Puno, travelers should pack a few essential items.

The high-altitude terrain and variable weather require proper attire and preparation.

Proper attire and preparation are essential for navigating the high-altitude terrain and variable weather on this scenic journey.

Some key items to bring include:

1. Warm layers: The temperature can fluctuate greatly, so pack a warm jacket, hat, and gloves to stay comfortable.

2. Sturdy walking shoes: The stops involve some walking, so wear comfortable, supportive shoes.

3. Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield from the intense high-altitude sun.

With the right gear, travelers can fully enjoy the historical and cultural highlights of this scenic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size is not specified in the provided information. It does not mention the typical group size for this tour. The details focus on the itinerary, inclusions, and customer feedback rather than group size.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but a buffet lunch is included in the package. Bringing additional snacks or beverages is allowed, providing convenience and flexibility for the day trip.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, customers can extend the tour duration for an additional fee. The tour operator offers options to visit more sites or spend more time at certain locations along the route. Travelers should inquire about extended tour packages when booking.

Do I Need a Permit to Visit the Archaeological Sites?

The tour includes admission to the archaeological sites, so no separate permit is needed. Travelers can simply join the group and explore the historical and cultural treasures along the Sun Route Circuit.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Trip?

There are no age restrictions for this trip. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, including children, as long as they can handle the physical activity and high-altitude terrain during the stops.

The Sum Up

The Day Trip Sun Route Circuit offers a comprehensive exploration of Peru’s southern highlands. With highlights like the Sistine Chapel of America and Raqchi Temple, this 10-hour journey provides a deep dive into the region’s cultural and historical treasures. Valued at $89.99 per person, the tour covers transportation, guides, admission fees, and lunch, making it an enriching and convenient way to experience the Andean landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: