Cusco to Puno Scenic Day Trip with Lunch (Route of the Sun)

Highlights

Leistungen

Ablauf

1. Our journey begins in Andahuaylillas, home to the breathtaking Church of Saint Peter the Apostle — often called the “Sistine Chapel of America.” Built in the 16th century by Jesuit missionaries atop a sacred Inca site, this architectural treasure blends Spanish Baroque style with Andean symbolism. From the outside, its adobe-and-brick façade is modest. But step inside, and you're surrounded by gold-leaf altars, vivid frescoes, and intricate paintings that make this one of the most stunning religious sites in South America.

   1 Std.

2. Next, we explore Raqchi, a remarkable Inca archaeological site and official “Best Tourism Village.” The highlight here is the Temple of Wiracocha - one of the largest Incan structures still standing. According to ancient chronicles, this grand temple was built by an Inca emperor to honor Wiracocha, the invisible Supreme God of the Andean people, this massive temple stood 15 meters tall and showcases the Inca’s masterful engineering. Surrounded by ancient ruins and rich spiritual legacy, Raqchi is a powerful step back into the heart of Inca civilization.

   1 Std.

3. Midway through the journey, we’ll stop for a relaxing 1-hour buffet lunch featuring the best of traditional Andean cuisine. This is more than just a meal — it’s a chance to savor local flavors like quinoa soup, roasted vegetables, Andean potatoes, fresh salads, and regional meats, all prepared with highland ingredients. Set in a peaceful highland town, the restaurant offers stunning mountain views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere — the perfect break to recharge before continuing on to Puno.

   1 Std.Eintritt inbegriffen

4. We pause at Abra La Raya, the dramatic mountain pass that marks the natural border between Cusco and Puno. At over 4,300 meters above sea level, it’s the highest point of the journey and a breathtaking showcase of the Andes in full glory. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and endless sky, this is a perfect moment to stretch your legs, take photos, and feel the vastness of Peru’s highlands.

   30 Min.

5. Our final stop is Pucará, the earliest major settlement of the Titicaca Basin, dating back to 500 BC. Once a thriving highland center, Pucará housed thousands — from priests and artisans to farmers and warriors. Today, it offers a rare window into pre-Inca civilization, known for its monolithic stone sculptures with striking geometric and animal forms, and vibrant multi-colored ceramics used in both daily life and sacred rituals. A fascinating glimpse into the roots of Andean culture.

   1 Std.

Stornierung

Kostenlose Stornierung bis 24 Stunden vor Beginn, mit voller Rückerstattung.

Bewertungen

Die Bewertungen stammen aus 383 Rezensionen, die unser Buchungspartner gesammelt hat. Es sind die eigenen Worte der Reisenden, in der Reihenfolge ihres Entstehens — nie umsortiert, damit das Erlebnis besser dasteht.

Gut zu wissen

How it compares in Cusco

• Its from-price is 69% below the median of the 4460 experiences we list in Cusco.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 58 of 4460.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Cusco

Cusco, die alte Inka-Hauptstadt hoch in den peruanischen Anden, verbindet gewaltige Steinmauern mit Kolonialkirchen und ist Tor nach Machu Picchu.

Die Plaza de Armas ist das Herz der Stadt, umrahmt von der Kathedrale und der Jesuitenkirche La Compañía. Inka-Mauerwerk ist im ganzen Zentrum erhalten, am berühmtesten im Qorikancha, dem Sonnentempel, auf dem die Spanier ein Kloster errichteten, und im zwölfeckigen Stein in der Straße Hatun Rumiyoc. San Blas, das Handwerkerviertel, steigt steil an, mit Werkstätten und Cafés.

Top-ranked sights in Cusco: Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo Ruins.

See all 4460 experiences in Cusco