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

In evidenza

Incluso

Itinerario

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 h

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 h

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 hIngresso incluso

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 h

Cancellazione

Cancellazione gratuita fino a 24 ore prima dell’inizio, con rimborso totale.

Recensioni

I voti arrivano da 383 recensioni raccolte dal nostro partner di prenotazione. Sono parole dei viaggiatori, nell’ordine in cui sono state scritte — mai riordinate per far apparire meglio l’esperienza.

Da sapere prima di partire

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, antica capitale inca nelle Ande peruviane, unisce possenti mura di pietra a chiese coloniali ed è la porta d'accesso al Machu Picchu.

La Plaza de Armas è il cuore della città, incorniciata dalla cattedrale e dalla chiesa gesuita della Compañía. La muratura inca sopravvive in tutto il centro, il più famoso esempio è il Qorikancha, il tempio del sole su cui gli spagnoli costruirono un convento, e la pietra dai dodici angoli in calle Hatun Rumiyoc. San Blas, il quartiere degli artigiani, sale ripido con botteghe e caffè.

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

See all 4460 experiences in Cusco