The Route of the Sun is the scenic daytime journey between Puno and Cusco, about ten hours by road and one of the great overland trips in Peru. Tourist buses leave Puno in the morning and stop at several sights, then reach Cusco in the evening. Typical stops include the Pukara museum, the high pass of La Raya at roughly 4,300 meters on the border between the Puno and Cusco regions, the town of Sicuani, the remarkable Inca site of Raqchi with its great adobe-topped wall and the Temple of Wiracocha, and the baroque church at Andahuaylillas, sometimes called the Sistine Chapel of the Andes. A buffet lunch is usually included. For many travelers, it is the best way to go from the lake to the Sacred Valley region.
What you see
The landscape changes steadily as you climb out of the Titicaca basin onto high grassland, where llamas and alpacas graze below snowy peaks, then descend through green valleys toward the Cusco region. The pass at La Raya has a market selling alpaca goods and a sign marking the watershed. Raqchi, the archaeological complex near Sicuani, is one of the most unusual Inca sites, with a long stone and adobe wall and the foundations of a large temple to Wiracocha. Andahuaylillas, near Cusco, has a richly painted church with murals and gold.
How the trip works
Bus tours are run by tourist operators, with a guide and comfortable seats, and in some cases an English-speaking host. They typically depart around seven in the morning and arrive in Cusco around five or six in the evening, depending on stops. Prices vary with the level of service, from simple shared buses to premium services with lunch and entry fees included.
Check what is covered, especially entry to Raqchi and Andahuaylillas. Night buses also exist, but you miss the scenery. In some seasons a scenic train runs between the two cities, but check current services.
Planning
Wear layers, because the high passes are cold, and bring sun protection, water and snacks. If you suffer from altitude issues, remember that you start in Puno at around 3,830 meters, climb higher and end in Cusco at about 3,400, so you are always high. Break up the journey if you prefer, staying in Sicuani or at a hacienda en route.
For Cusco itself, including Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, see our Cusco and Sacred Valley guides. This day works well as the final leg of a lake trip, and it saves you a flight.
Make the day comfortable with a few preparations. Choose a seat on the side with the best views of the mountains, bring a pillow and a light blanket for the cool morning, and download music or an audiobook for the long stretches. Food is usually included at the lunch stop, but pack water and fruit for the rest of the day.
Keep your valuables with you rather than in the luggage hold, and charge your devices the night before. If you would rather take the trip at a gentler pace, some operators offer a two-day version with an overnight along the route.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day tourist bus journey between Puno and Cusco with guided stops at Pukara, La Raya pass, Raqchi, Andahuaylillas and a lunch break.
Best time
Dry-season days from May to October, when the passes are clear and roads are dry.
How long
About ten hours, from early morning to evening.
Tips
Wear layers, carry water and snacks, and check which entry fees are included.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travelers going from the lake to Cusco who want sightseeing on the way.
- Families
- Fine for older children, though the day is long.
- Couples
- A scenic, comfortable way to cross the plateau together.
- Pair with
- Cusco and the Sacred Valley after a lake stay.
- Time needed
- One full day.
Good questions
How long is the journey?+
About ten hours with stops.
What are the main stops?+
Typically the Pukara museum, La Raya pass, Raqchi, a lunch stop and Andahuaylillas.
Is lunch included?+
Most tourist buses include a buffet lunch. Confirm when you book.
Is it better than flying?+
It is slower but scenic, and it saves the cost of a flight.
Can I do it in reverse?+
Yes, tours run from Cusco to Puno as well.
