DESCRIPTION
The Ruta del Sol Cusco Puno is much more than a trip between two cities; it’s a journey through the cultural heart of the southern Andes, where each stop reveals a part of Peru’s soul. Along the way, you’ll discover colonial temples, Inca buildings, traditional villages, and landscapes that seem like something out of a painting. This journey combines art, history, and spirituality, connecting the legacy of the Tahuantinsuyu with the living heritage of the Andes.
ITINERARY
Day 1 – Detailed Itinerary
🚐 Pickup from your hotel and departure from Cusco (6:00 – 7:00 AM)
Begin this unique journey with pickup from your accommodation in Cusco or from the agreed-upon meeting point. Aboard a modern, fully-equipped tourist bus, we head toward the South Valley, an area rich in history and tradition.
During the journey, our professional bilingual guide will explain the landscapes, local customs, and the cultural significance of the places we will visit on this unforgettable Cusco-Puno Sun Route.
⛪ Church of San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas – The Sistine Chapel of the Americas
Our first stop will be in the picturesque town of Andahuaylillas, home to one of the jewels of Andean colonial art. Its church, built in the 16th century, is known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” for its impressive Baroque decoration: polychrome murals, gold-leafed altars, paintings from the Cusco school, and a perfectly preserved original organ.
This temple epitomizes the fusion of European art and indigenous devotion, marking the beginning of our journey through Peru’s living history.
🏺 Heading to Raqchi – The Heart of the Cusco Highlands
We continue toward Raqchi, crossing the Andean landscape that changes from fertile agricultural valleys to the open plains of the high plateau. Along the way, we will observe traditional villages, Inca terraces, and peasant communities that maintain their ancestral customs.
🏛️ Visit to the Raqchi Archaeological Park – Temple of Wiracocha
We arrive at the majestic Temple of Wiracocha, one of the most important archaeological sites on the route. This Inca site was dedicated to the creator god of the universe and stands out for its imposing adobe walls on stone bases that reach up to 15 meters in height.
Raqchi also houses remains of qolqas (storehouses), ceremonial enclosures, and ritual platforms that demonstrate the organization and spiritual power of the ancient Inca Empire.
The ambiance of the place transmits a unique energy, inviting reflection on the Andean worldview and the connection between humans, gods, and nature.
🍽️ Buffet Lunch in Sicuani
After the visit, we head to Sicuani, where we will enjoy an Andean buffet lunch in a tourist restaurant.
The menu includes a wide selection of typical dishes from the region: quinoa, native potatoes, traditional stews, regional soups, and homemade desserts, as well as vegetarian options. This is an ideal time to rest, share experiences, and sample the authentic cuisine of southern Peru.
🏔️ Abra La Raya – The highest point of the route (4,335 m above sea level)
We resume our journey towards the Puno plateau and reach Abra La Raya, the natural border between Cusco and Puno.
This is the highest point of the route and offers panoramic views of the Ausangate and Chimboya snow-capped mountains, as well as herds of llamas and alpacas grazing on the ichu fields.
A brief stop to take spectacular photographs, breathe fresh air, and experience the immensity of the Peruvian Andes.
🗿 Pukara Lithic Museum – Birthplace of the Little Bulls of Fortune
Descending toward the high plateau, we arrive at Pukara, a pre-Incan civilization that flourished more than 2,000 years ago.
We will visit its Lithic Museum, which houses monolithic sculptures, ceremonial ceramics, and funerary objects that reveal the spirituality of this ancient culture.
Here you will also learn about the origin of the famous Pukara Little Bulls, Andean amulets placed on rooftops as symbols of protection, abundance, and prosperity.
🌅 Arrival in Puno (5:00 – 5:30 PM)
We conclude our tour by arriving in Puno, the charming city located on the shores of the majestic Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
After a day filled with history, art, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, we conclude the Ruta del Sol Cusco – Puno with the satisfaction of having completed one of Peru’s most iconic journeys.
INCLUDES
✅Includes
🚌 Modern tourist transportation: Panoramic tourist bus with air conditioning, reclining seats, on-board bathroom, and assisted service throughout the journey.
🏨 Pickup from your hotel: Available for accommodations located in the historic center of Cusco or at a prearranged meeting point.
🗣️ Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English): Full accompaniment throughout the entire tour.
Travel information, with historical, cultural, and archaeological information at every point along the route.
🍽️ Buffet lunch in Sicuani: Includes a wide variety of Andean dishes, vegetarian options, and hot drinks.
💧 Mineral water or soft drink on board: To stay hydrated throughout the trip.
⛑️ Assistance and first aid kit: Available throughout the tour, with staff trained in basic care.
NOT INCLUDED
❌Not Included
🍳 Breakfast in Cusco: It is recommended to have it before pickup, as the tour starts early and the first service included is the buffet lunch in Sicuani.
🍽️ Dinner in Puno: The tour ends upon arrival in the city, so dinner is the passenger’s responsibility.
🎥 Professional photography and videography: Not included, but can be requested for an additional charge at each tourist site or during scenic stops.
💰 Voluntary gratuities: Gratuities for the guide, driver, or restaurant staff are optional and at the discretion of each traveler.
🧧 Personal expenses: Purchases, souvenirs, additional drinks, phone calls, or other expenses not specified in the itinerary.
🚐 Transfers outside the historic center: Pickup and drop-off services are limited to the historic center of Cusco and Puno. If your accommodation is in more remote areas, additional transportation can be arranged for an extra charge.
🪙 Admissions not mentioned: Any visit or entry outside the official Ruta del Sol Cusco Puno circuit is not included.
RECOMMENDATIONS
✨Recommendations
👕 Wear comfortable, light clothing: During the tour, you will cross different altitudes; It is recommended to dress in layers to easily adapt to the variable climate between Cusco and Puno.
🧢 Protect yourself from the sun: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Radiation is high at Abra La Raya due to the altitude (4,335 m above sea level).
🥾 Appropriate footwear: Wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes, ideal for walking comfortably around archaeological sites and temples.
💧 Hydrate constantly: The altitude can cause dryness or fatigue. Drink water or hot infusions frequently.
🍽️ Eat breakfast before leaving: The tour starts early, and the first meal included is a buffet lunch in Sicuani.
📸 Prepare your camera: Each stop offers unique settings—colonial temples, mountain landscapes, Inca ruins, and traditional villages. Make sure your battery and memory are free.
🌤️ Best time to travel: From April to October, during the dry season. The days are sunny and perfect for enjoying the landscapes of the high plateau.
🧣 Dress warmly: It can be cold in the mornings and upon arrival at the high plateau; bring a thermal jacket or light scarf.
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🎟️ What sites does the Ruta del Sol include?
The tour visits the Church of Andahuaylillas, the Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, the Abra La Raya, and the Pukara Lithic Museum, with photo stops and a guide at each site.
🏔️ Can you feel the altitude during the trip?
Some people may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness, especially at the Abra La Raya. It is recommended to stay hydrated and avoid physical exertion.
🧳 Can I bring my luggage on the tour?
Yes, you can carry your bags in the hold of the tour bus. The staff will secure them and deliver them to you upon arrival in Puno.
📷 Can I take photos everywhere?
Yes, at most locations, although some temples restrict the use of flash. The guide will inform you at each stop.
🚌 Can I take the Ruta del Sol in reverse (Puno to Cusco)?
Yes, it is available with the same itinerary and services. Pickup time in Puno must be arranged in advance.
💳 Can I pay by card or only in cash?
Most agencies and restaurants accept cash in soles, although some accept card payments. It is advisable to carry cash.