Exploring the ancient Inca trade route is a captivating experience. This 2-day tour takes travelers on a journey through stunning landscapes, from Cusco to Puno. Visitors will discover historic sites like the Sistine Chapel of America and Temple of Wiracocha. With comfortable transportation, meals, and a night’s stay in Puno, the tour promises an unforgettable adventure. But the real highlight? Discovering the unique floating islands of Lake Titicaca, where the past and present collide in a breathtaking display.

Contents show

Key Points

This 2-day tour takes you along the ancient Inca trade route, with stops at historic sites like the Sistine Chapel of America and Temple of Wiracocha.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, 1 night’s hotel stay in Puno, most meals, and guided tours, priced from Kč 5,999 per person.
On the first day, the itinerary includes visits to the Church of San Pedro Apostol, Temple of Wiracocha, and reaching the high-altitude La Raya before arriving in Puno.
On the second day, the tour explores the floating Uros Islands and Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca, with a traditional lunch on the island.
The tour includes comfortable transportation, hearty meals showcasing local cuisine, hotel accommodation, and all necessary entrance fees, but excludes personal expenses, tips, and return transportation to Cusco.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

What does this round trip from Cusco to the Route of the Sun include?

It’s a 2-day tour that takes visitors along the ancient Inca trade route, with stops at historic sites like the Sistine Chapel of America and the Temple of Wiracocha.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, 1 night’s hotel stay in Puno, most meals, and guided tours.

Priced from Kč 5,999 per person, it’s a small-group experience with no more than 10 participants.

There’s no upfront cost to reserve, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco

Itinerary Day 1: Route of the Sun

The Route of the Sun adventure begins with an early 6:00 AM departure from Cusco aboard a tourist bus. The first stop is the Church of San Pedro Apostol in Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America". At 10:00 AM, the group explores the Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi. Lunch is served in Sicuani at noon. Then, the tour reaches the highest point at 4,335 m.a.s.l. in La Raya. The Pukara Museum, famous for its pre-Inca sculptures and ceramics, is the final stop before arriving in Puno at 5:30 PM and transferring to the hotel.

| Time | Activity |

| — | — |

| 06:00 AM | Depart Cusco |

| 08:00 AM | Visit Andahuaylillas Church |

| 10:00 AM | Explore Raqchi Temple |

| 12:00 PM | Lunch in Sicuani |

| 02:00 PM | Visit La Raya |

Itinerary Day 2: Lake Titicaca Tour

On the second day, the group departs Puno early at 5:00 AM and transfers to the port to begin the Lake Titicaca tour.

They’ll visit the floating Uros Islands, learning about the locals’ history and construction methods.

Next, they’ll sail to Taquile Island to explore the culture, weaving, and traditions.

Taquile Island awaits, where the group explores its vibrant culture, intricate weaving, and enduring traditions.

After a traditional lunch with lake views, they’ll return to Puno port around 2:30 PM.

The tour ends with an overnight bus departure back to Cusco, arriving at 5:00 AM the following day.

Inclusions

The tour package includes several key components to enhance the travel experience.

The inclusions are:

Comfortable tourist bus transportation from Cusco to Puno and back.
Hearty lunches in Sicuani and on Taquile Island, showcasing local cuisine.
Transfers to the hotel in Puno and all necessary entrance fees.
One night of hotel accommodation, breakfast, and dinner (except where noted).

The package excludes personal expenses, tips, travel insurance, and the return transportation to Cusco, which can be arranged separately.

With these comprehensive inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences along the Route of the Sun.

More Great Tours Nearby

Meeting Point and Availability

Check availability for starting times at the meeting point, which can be accessed via Google Maps. This small group tour has limited availability, so it’s best to confirm dates in advance.

The tour departs from Cusco and runs twice daily, with options to start in the morning or afternoon. The meeting point is conveniently located and easy to find.

Be sure to arrive at the designated time to ensure a smooth start to your Route of the Sun adventure. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions about the logistics or availability.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Departure From Cusco

Although the day begins early, the round trip from Cusco to the Route of the Sun offers an unforgettable journey.

At 6:00 AM, travelers depart Cusco by tourist bus, embarking on an adventure that showcases the region’s stunning landscapes:

First stop is the charming Church of San Pedro Apostol in Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its remarkable frescoes.
Next, the group explores the impressive Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, a testament to the architectural prowess of the Inca Empire.
Lunch is served in Sicuani, providing a chance to refuel before continuing the journey.
The tour reaches its highest point at La Raya, 4,335 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the Andes.

Visiting the Sistine Chapel of America

After departing Cusco, the first stop on the Route of the Sun is the charming Church of San Pedro Apostol in Andahuaylillas.

Known as the "Sistine Chapel of America," this 16th-century church boasts stunning Baroque interior and murals. Visitors will marvel at the exquisite frescoes, altars, and ornamental carvings that blend Inca and Spanish influences.

Exploring this architectural gem provides a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. With an expert guide on hand to share insights, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable sacred site and its pivotal role in the history of the Cusco area.

Exploring Pre-Inca Sculptures and Ceramics

Next, travelers venture to the Pukara Museum, which is renowned for its impressive collection of pre-Inca sculptures and ceramics.

The museum’s highlights include:

Intricate stone carvings depicting deities, warriors, and animals from the Pukara culture.
Elegantly designed pottery, including vessels, plates, and figurines showcasing the region’s distinct artistic style.
Interactive exhibits explaining the history and significance of these pre-Inca artifacts.
Knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the development and influences of the Pukara civilization.

After exploring the museum, the tour continues towards the city of Puno, the final destination for the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Far in Advance Should I Book This Tour?

You should book this tour at least 24 hours in advance to take advantage of the free cancellation policy. However, booking further ahead is recommended as availability may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trip Beyond 2 Days?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the trip beyond the standard 2-day itinerary. Travelers can add extra days in Puno or Cusco for more sightseeing and cultural experiences. The tour operator can customize the package based on individual preferences.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to fit your interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the activities and sites visited based on your preferences, within the 2-day duration of the trip.

What Should I Pack for This Trip?

Travelers should pack warm layers, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a small backpack, snacks, and any necessary medications. It’s also recommended to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences along the route.

Is There Any Special Equipment Required for the Lake Titicaca Tour?

No special equipment is required for the Lake Titicaca tour. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and bring any necessary medications. The tour includes transportation, guided activities, and meals as per the itinerary.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour along the ancient Inca trade route offers a chance to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Peru. Travelers will visit historic sites, marvel at the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, and enjoy comfortable transportation and accommodations. It’s an unforgettable adventure that allows visitors to enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of the region.