The "Route of the Sun From Cusco + 1-Day Tour in Puno" offers travelers a chance to enjoy Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Spanning two days, this adventure showcases the stunning Sistine Chapel of Andahuaylillas, the Raqchi Archaeological Complex, and the unique Uros Floating Islands. Guests will engage with local communities, savor traditional cuisine, and uncover the captivating history that has shaped this remarkable region. With convenient payment options and an intriguing itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the wonders of Peru.

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Key Points

The Route of the Sun tour is a two-day experience starting from Cusco, including a one-day tour in Puno.
The tour includes visits to archaeological sites, museums, and the floating islands of Lake Titicaca with a bilingual guide.
The Sistine Chapel of Andahuaylillas, known as the Sistine Chapel of America, is a must-see stop on the tour.
The Raqchi Archaeological Complex offers insights into Inca engineering and religious practices.
The Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island excursion provides a cultural interaction and scenic experience on Lake Titicaca.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Route of the Sun Tour offers a comprehensive two-day experience, starting from Cusco and including a one-day tour in Puno.

Priced from $200 per person, the tour lasts for 2 days and features free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund.

Travelers can also opt for the reserve now and pay later option.

The tour’s highlights include visiting archaeological sites, museums, and the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, with a professional bilingual guide, comfortable transportation, and all entrance fees included.

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Sistine Chapel of Andahuaylillas

On the first day, the tour visits the Sistine Chapel of Andahuaylillas, known as the Sistine Chapel of America.

This 17th-century Catholic church features stunning interior murals that rival those of the famous Sistine Chapel in Rome. Visitors will be awestruck by the ornate, elaborately decorated walls and ceilings, which depict biblical scenes and religious iconography.

The chapel’s impressive architecture and intricate artwork make it a must-see stop on the Route of the Sun tour. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the cultural and artistic heritage of this region of Peru.

Raqchi Archaeological Complex

After visiting the Sistine Chapel of Andahuaylillas, the Route of the Sun tour continues to the archaeological complex of Raqchi. This impressive site features the temple of the god Wiracocha, one of the most important Inca deities. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the site’s history and construction. The complex includes:

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Temple | Large temple structure dedicated to Wiracocha |

| Aqueducts | Intricate irrigation system |

| Storehouses | Massive storehouses for food and supplies |

| Residential Areas | Remains of Inca dwellings |

The Raqchi archaeological complex offers a fascinating glimpse into the engineering and religious practices of the Inca civilization.

Pukara Lithic Museum

From the impressive Inca ruins of Raqchi, the Route of the Sun tour moves on to the Pukara Lithic Museum.

This museum features a fascinating collection of monoliths, with zoomorphic and anthropomorphic figures carved into stone. Visitors can explore these ancient artifacts and learn about the culture and craftsmanship of the Pukara civilization, which thrived in the region centuries ago.

The museum provides a glimpse into the rich history and artistic traditions of the Andes, complementing the tour’s exploration of Inca and pre-Inca sites along the Route of the Sun.

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Uros Floating Islands

After being picked up from their hotel, tour participants travel to the Puno port to board a speedboat for the Uros Floating Islands.

They’ll experience a guided tour of these artificial islands, learning about the unique Uros culture and traditions. Participants can explore the floating reed structures, interact with the islanders, and take photos of the stunning Lake Titicaca backdrop.

Following the Uros visit, the tour continues to Taquile Island, where you will enjoy a local family-style lunch before returning to Puno city by 5:00 pm.

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Taquile Island Excursion

Following the visit to the Uros Floating Islands, the tour group travels to Taquile Island for a local family-style lunch.

Taquile is known for its traditional textiles and authentic cultural experiences. Upon arrival, the group will have the opportunity to explore the island and interact with the local Quechua people.

Taquile Island is renowned for its traditional textiles and opportunities to immerse in authentic Quechua cultural experiences.

They’ll learn about the island’s unique way of life and observe the skilled knitting techniques used to create the intricate textiles.

The tour then returns to Puno city, arriving around 5:00 pm to conclude the day’s adventure on Lake Titicaca.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a comprehensive package of services and experiences.

Hotel pickup, a professional bilingual guide, meals, comfortable transportation, and all entrance fees are provided.

Travelers will also receive one night’s hotel accommodation, transportation to the Lake Titicaca port, and a speedboat ride to Uros Island.

The entrance ticket to Uros Island is also included.

However, any food not mentioned in the itinerary isn’t part of the package.

Guests should check availability to confirm tour start times.

A live tour guide will accompany the group throughout the journey.

Additional Information

When checking availability, visitors can see the starting times for the Route of the Sun Tour. A live tour guide is provided throughout the excursion, offering insights and information in both English and Spanish.

It’s important to note that any meals not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary aren’t included. Travelers should plan accordingly and budget for additional expenses, such as snacks or personal purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The recommended attire for the tour is comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Layered clothing is advisable as the weather can be chilly, especially at the higher elevations and on the lake.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Yes, children can participate in the tour. The tour is family-friendly and welcomes children of all ages. Families should bring appropriate clothing and footwear for their children to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator offers discounts for seniors and students. Seniors can get a 10% discount while students can receive a 5% discount on the listed tour price with valid identification presented at the time of booking.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. You can discuss any changes with the tour operator, who will be happy to accommodate your requests within the overall tour structure and duration.

How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tour?

The tour provider arranges hotel pick-up for customers near or within the Historic Center. They’ll handle the transportation to the starting point of the tour, so you don’t have to worry about getting there on your own.

The Sum Up

The "Route of the Sun From Cusco + 1-Day Tour in Puno" offers an immersive cultural experience through Peru’s rich heritage. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel of Andahuaylillas, Raqchi Archaeological Complex, Uros Floating Islands, and Taquile Island. Priced from $200 per person, this two-day tour provides a convenient and engaging way to explore the diverse landscapes and traditions of this captivating region.