"We recently returned from an incredible trip to Peru, and we owe it all to Tania from Machu Picchu Peru Travels. From start to finish,... (See more)"
dbeta83 | 07/09/2025
5 - Excellent
2 Days
Duration
Small Group Tour
Usually 8-12 participants
16 people
Maximum group size
16 - 99 years
Age range for participants
English
Guide language
Easy
Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness.
Ruta del Sol from Cusco to Puno
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Peru with the “Ruta del Sol” tour offered by Machu Picchu Peru Travel. This incredible journey takes you from Cusco to Puno in a comfortable bus, exploring the stunning Andean landscapes and fascinating cultural treasures along the way. From ancient ruins to picturesque mountain passes, this trip is a perfect blend of nature, history, and unforgettable experiences.
Travel through the Raya Pass at an impressive altitude of 14,222 feet (4,335 meters) and marvel at the view of Mount Chimboya, the birthplace of the Amazon River. Visit the Pukara Stone Museum, located at 12,795 feet (3,900 meters), and learn about the Pukara culture, one of the most influential civilizations in Peru’s history. The journey also includes a stop at the Raqchi Archaeological Complex at 11,319 feet (3,450 meters), where you’ll explore the Temple of Wiracocha, a tribute to the supreme Inca deity.
The tour offers a blend of spiritual and cultural highlights, including the stunning Andahuaylillas Chapel at 10,151 feet (3,093 meters), known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.” Along the way, enjoy a buffet lunch in Sicuani featuring a variety of delicious Peruvian dishes. With expert guides, breathtaking views, and a comfortable ride, this tour is the perfect way to connect with Peru’s incredible past and natural beauty.
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Highlights of the Ruta del Sol Tour
Pukara Stone Museum (12,795 ft / 3,900 m): Discover the fascinating artifacts of the Pukara culture, including ceramics and the iconic Hatunñaqac sculpture.
Raya Pass (14,222 ft / 4,335 m): Marvel at breathtaking views of the Andes and Mount Chimboya, the source of the Amazon River.
Sicuani Buffet Lunch: Enjoy a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes in a relaxing setting, with hot beverages included.
Raqchi Archaeological Complex (11,319 ft / 3,450 m): Explore the impressive Temple of Wiracocha and Inca storage structures made of stone and adobe.
Andahuaylillas Chapel (10,151 ft / 3,093 m): Visit the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” renowned for its stunning murals and gold-leaf artistry.
Scenic Journey: Travel through the picturesque Andean plateau, connecting the rich history of Cusco to the vibrant culture of Puno.
06:20 hrs: Check-in for your boarding ticket and luggage at the bus terminal. Ensure you have all your documents ready and arrive early for a smooth boarding process.
06:40 hrs: Start of the Ruta del Sol Peru tour. The journey begins toward Puno, passing through breathtaking Andean landscapes and stopping at key cultural and archaeological sites.
08:50 / 09:30 hrs: First stop at the Sistine Chapel of Andahuaylillas, located at 10,151 feet (3,093 meters) above sea level. This 17th-century church is famous for its stunning murals, gold-leaf details, and artworks from the Cusco School of Art. A guided tour will reveal the history and cultural significance of this unique landmark.
10:50 / 11:30 hrs: Visit the Raqchi Archaeological Complex, situated at 11,319 feet (3,450 meters). This site features the Temple of Wiracocha, dedicated to the supreme Inca deity, as well as an extensive collection of storage houses (Colcas) and structures built with a mix of stone and adobe.
11:45 / 12:30 hrs: Stop for a delicious buffet lunch at La Pascana restaurant in Sicuani. The buffet includes a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes, appetizers, side dishes, desserts, and hot drinks such as coca tea and coffee.
13:10 / 13:20 hrs: Brief stop at La Raya, the highest point of the journey at 14,222 feet (4,335 meters). This natural border between Cusco and Puno offers stunning views of the Andes, including the snow-capped Chimboya Mountain, the source of the Amazon River.
14:30 / 15:00 hrs: Final stop at the Pucará Lithic Museum, located at 12,795 feet (3,900 meters). This museum highlights the Pucará culture, one of the most significant civilizations of the Andean plateau, showcasing unique stone sculptures and ceremonial pottery.
17:30 hrs: Arrival in the city of Puno, concluding the tour at a private terminal. From here, you can head to your hotel and prepare for your next adventure in Peru.
Daily Schedule
Itinerary
DAY 1
Tour "Ruta del Sol" Cusco Puno BY Bus
The journey begins with a hotel pick-up, with a recommended departure time of 7:00 AM. We’ll head along the paved road toward Cusco. The trip takes around 10 hours, during which you’ll enjoy four guided excursions to explore fascinating historical and cultural sites along the southern Andean plateau. The tour offers magical and ancient highlights such as the Pukara Stone Museum, the Raya Pass (the border between Puno and Cusco – with a view of Mount Chimboya), the impressive Temple of the God Wiracocha, and the Andahuaylillas Chapel, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”
Pukara Stone Museum (12,795 feet / 3,900 meters) This museum is part of the most significant ceremonial center of the plateau, representing the Pukara culture, which thrived from 1600 BC to 400 AD. Located about 106 km northeast of Puno, the museum houses ceramics and sculptures of zoomorphic figures, including the renowned Hatunñaqac, which translates to “The Great Executioner.” The guided visit lasts around 25 to 30 minutes.
Raya Pass (14,222 feet / 4,335 meters) As the border between Puno and Cusco, Raya Pass offers breathtaking views of Mount Chimboya, the source of the Amazon River. This is a perfect spot for capturing photos of the stunning landscape.
Sicuani – Buffet Lunch The lunch stop offers a wide variety of national and regional dishes, with appetizers, fresh vegetables, side dishes, and delicious desserts. Hot drinks such as coca tea, coffee, or regular tea are included, but cold beverages like water, soda, or beer come at an additional cost. The lunch break lasts around 40 minutes.
Raqchi Archaeological Complex (11,319 feet / 3,450 meters) Known as the Temple of the God Wiracocha, the Incan supreme deity, this site showcases a large collection of storage houses (Colcas) and impressive structures built with both stone and adobe.
Andahuaylillas Chapel (10,151 feet / 3,093 meters) This 17th-century church is famous for its stunning murals, gold leaf detailing, and the paintings of the Cusco school of art housed inside. It’s often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” for its incredible beauty.
DURATION: Around 10 hours.
SCHEDULE:
Departure: 07:00 AM (Optional).
Arrival: 05:00 PM.
PRICE PER PERSON IN USD – VAT NOT INCLUDED:
Group Service: $70 USD (groups of 15 to 20 people).
Private Service: $280 USD (Minimum of 2 people).
Special discount available for groups of 3 or more.
What's Included
Inclusions
Included in the journey
Private tourist transport.
Entrance tickets.
Professional guide (English/Spanish).
Buffet lunch.
What Travelers Say About this Tour
Our clients trust us, and their reviews on Tripadvisor and Google speak for themselves. Discover why so many travelers choose us for unforgettable experiences in Cusco.
We recently returned from an incredible trip to Peru, and we owe it all to Tania from Machu Picchu Peru Travels. From start to finish, she was professional, attentive, and deeply knowledgeable about the destination. Every detail from our accommodations and guided tours to transportation and local experiences was perfectly planned.Tania took the time to understand our travel style and preferences, and she created Spotting Sea Lions in Islas de Ballestas in Paracas, dune bashing and sand surfing at the Oasis de Huancachina, hiking Machu Picchu, exploring the Sacred Valley, and riding on ATVs to the Rainbow Mountain.What stood out most was her responsiveness and care, even during the trip. When we had a minor questions while abroad, she replied immediately and ensured everything went smoothly.We couldn’t have asked for a better travel experience and would absolutely recommend Tania and Machu Picchu to anyone planning a trip to Peru!
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Circuit 1: The Panoramic Circuit
This circuit focuses on the agricultural sector and upper areas, providing access to vantage points and mountain hikes.
Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain Route: Allows climbing Machu Picchu Mountain. The total maximum stay for the climb and a short visit to the Inca City afterward is 4 hours for the mountain and 1 hour for the city. Two time slots are available: 6:00-6:30 a.m. and 8:00-8:30 a.m.
Route 1-B: Upper Terrace Route: A shorter route through the agricultural sector. Max stay: 2 hours 30 minutes.
Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate Route: Leads to the Sun Gate (Intipunku). The round trip takes about 2 hours, followed by a maximum 2-hour stay in the city.
Route 1-D: Puente Inka Route: Leads to the Inca Bridge. The round trip takes about 1 hour, followed by a maximum 2-hour stay in the city.
Circuit 2: The Classic Circuit
This circuit includes both the agricultural and urban sectors, covering key areas for a comprehensive view.
Route 2-A: Designed Route & Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route: Both are comprehensive routes that cover platforms near the Guardian’s House, the Quarry, the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, the Main Temple, Temple of the Three Windows, and the Sacred Rock. Visitors can choose to see the Hall of Mirrors or the Temple of the Condor near the end.
Max Stay:2 hours 30 minutes for both 2-A and 2-B.
Circuit 3: The Royal Circuit
This circuit focuses on the lower urban sector and provides access to the Waynapicchu area and its associated hikes.
Route 3-A: Waynapicchu Mountain Route: Allows climbing Waynapicchu Mountain. The total maximum stay for the climb is 3 hours, followed by a 1-hour stay in the city. Two time slots are available: 6:00-6:30 a.m. and 9:00-9:30 a.m.
Route 3-B: Designed Route: Includes the agricultural platforms, Water Sources, Temple of the Sun, and the Inka House. Visitors can see the Hall of Mirrors or the Temple of the Condor. Max stay: 2 hours 30 minutes.
Route 3-C: Grand Cave Route: Leads to the Grand Cave (Temple of the Moon) but does not allow ascent to the Waynapicchu summit. Max stay for the hike is 4 hours, followed by a 1-hour stay in the city.
Route 3-D: Huchuypicchu Route: Allows climbing Huchuypicchu Mountain (a smaller peak), but does not allow ascent to Waynapicchu or the Grand Cave. Max stay for the hike is 1 hour, followed by a 1 hour 30 minute stay in the city.
General Conditions
Mountain/Cave Routes (1-A, 1-D, 3-A, 3-C): Participation is voluntary, requiring good physical condition and visitors must be over 18 years old.
All routes have strict maximum stay times and require adherence to entry/exit schedules to ensure visitor safety and site preservation.
Tour 'Ruta del Sol' Cusco to Puno by Bus
Pricing Options
The itinerary is the same in all options. The price only changes depending on the type of service
Prices per person in USD. Shared service, minimum 2 travelers. Solo travelers, please contact us before booking.
Train upgrade: Vistadome +USD 80 or Vistadome Observatory +USD 160 per person, round trip.
Not included: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (USD 65), Aguas Calientes hot springs (S/ 15) and meals not listed (the Rainbow Mountain buffet lunch is included).
Book in advance in high season: Machu Picchu tickets, trains and Rainbow Mountain permits sell out.
Subject to availability of trains and Machu Picchu tickets.
What Our Passengers Say About Machu Picchu Peru Travel
Amazing experience. I've already recommend to my family, cousins and friends. The staff are well informed and Tania is so nice. Great staff they never let me down. The tour guides are a amazing.
Todo excelentemente planeado, super recomiendo los servicios de Tania.
Ella acompaña a los pasajeros en su dia a dia y responde rapido a cualquier demanda.
I can’t recommend this agency highly enough! They made our vacation in Peru an unforgettable experience. From the very beginning, they stood out for their attentiveness, punctuality, excellent organization, and incredible coordination throughout the entire trip.I would especially like to mention our guide, Will, in Cusco. His professionalism, knowledge, and passion for history made every visit even more fascinating. We were amazed by all the interesting facts he shared about Inca culture, traditions, and the different archaeological sites. Having a guide like him made our experience much more enriching and allowed us to appreciate each place in a completely different way.I would also like to give a special thank you to Tania, Celestino, Jesus, Yusof, and Don Neri in Lima for their kindness, attention, and for making us feel so well taken care of throughout our trip.We traveled from Costa Rica, and we are taking home wonderful memories of Peru. Thank you to the entire team for making sure everything was so well organized and for treating us with such warmth and care.Without a doubt, an excellent agency for exploring Peru. We highly recommend them!Warm regards,
Yuliana, from Costa Rica 🇨🇷❤️🇵🇪
L
LIU R
20/03/2026
Tripadvisor
Excellent experience
We had an outstanding experience with Taina at Machu Picchu. He was extremely professional, passionate and knowledgeable about Inca history, culture and the site itself. she adjusted the pace perfectly for our group, answered all our questions patiently, and made the whole tour fascinating and memorable. We couldn’t ask for a better guide and highly recommend him to everyone traveling to Machu Picchu.
Wow, what great service! I’ve been on many tours and few have had the clarity and communication skills that Tania and her team had. From the moment I reached out in interest to the end of the Machu Picchu excursion, Tania was exceptionally clear and helpful, making every step very easy to follow. Planning Machu Picchu on your own is *technically* possible, but it takes a tremendous amount of work to plan with a lot of unknown variables. Booking a tour with Machu Picchu Peru Travel makes it easy for not much more cost, and eases the anxiety of all the unknowns with the complex journey. It is truly a great value for travelers.Now if only I could have Tania organize the rest of life…! :)
These days in Lima and Cusco were above and beyond excellence, it was amazing! What I found most interesting was its people! Peruvians are extremely helpful, charming and kind and of course hard workers!
I felt save walking around even late at night. It was simply magical
Regarding tours and attention they were very puntual, organized and everything was on time! I send a huge shout out to the agency and every single guide that help us through our journey!
Machu Picchu Peru Travel – Super Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu 2D/1N TourI highly recommend booking with Machu Picchu Peru Travel for any of their tours. We did the Super Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu 2D/1N, and it was an incredible experience from start to finish.From the very beginning, their level of communication was top tier. Tania was fantastic, clear, quick, and informative even before we booked. She was patient, guided us through the process, and ensured we got the exact circuit we wanted 2B, making everything completely stress-free and well organised. When we arrived in Cusco, she personally met us at our hotel for a detailed briefing, which showed how much she genuinely cared about our experience and ensuring everything went smoothly.Pickup was always on time, and every effort was made to keep the tour running seamlessly. The Sacred Valley tour itself was very enjoyable, with a fluent English-speaking guide who made everything easy to understand and engaging. Later that evening, we boarded the train to Aguas Calientes, where we were met and guided to our hotel.That evening, our guide Ruth visited us for a briefing, she was humble, warm, and very professional. The next day, she accompanied us from the hotel to the bus and then up to Machu Picchu. Being a private tour made the experience feel very personal and insightful. Ruth shared a wealth of knowledge, took her time explaining everything, and even helped us capture some amazing photos.Overall, this tour was 100% worth it-excellent organisation, outstanding guides, and a truly stress-free way to experience Machu Picchu.
We recently completed the 2-Day Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco with Machu Picchu Peru Travel, and it was one of the best-organized and most enjoyable tours we have ever experienced in Peru. From the very first contact to the final goodbye at our hotel, everything was handled with professionalism, warmth, and genuine care for our experience.
Communication was exceptional right from the start. The team was incredibly responsive on WhatsApp, answering all our questions promptly and patiently, even when we had last-minute requests and changes. Their quick replies gave us complete peace of mind as we planned our trip to Peru.
The day before our tour, we received a detailed briefing (via WhatsApp and in person) that clearly explained the entire itinerary, what to expect, what to bring, and all the important timings. It was thorough and reassuring, which helped us feel fully prepared and relaxed.
What impressed us most was how flexible and accommodating the team was. We had booked different panoramic train rides and specific circuits for Machu Picchu, and they seamlessly adjusted everything to match our preferences without any hassle. Their ability to handle these details smoothly showed just how experienced and client-focused they are.
Our English-speaking tour guides were simply fantastic! They were not only extremely knowledgeable about the history, culture, and significance of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, but they were also genuinely friendly, patient, and enthusiastic. They went above and beyond by acting as personal photographers for our group—taking beautiful photos from all the best angles and even suggesting creative shots we would never have thought of. Thanks to them, we now have stunning memories captured perfectly.
The entire tour ran like clockwork. The transportation was comfortable and safe, the pacing was ideal (never rushed, but never boring), and the contingency plans they had in place for weather, altitude, or any unexpected situations made us feel truly well taken care of. Everything was thought through so we could simply relax and enjoy the magic of the Sacred Valley and the wonder of Machu Picchu.
If you’re planning a trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu, I cannot recommend Machu Picchu Peru Travel highly enough. Their attention to detail, excellent communication, flexible approach, and warm, professional guides made our 2-day Sacred Valley tour an unforgettable highlight of our Peru adventure.
Thank you to the entire team—you made our dream trip even more special! We will definitely be booking with you again on our next visit to Peru.
Highly recommended – 10/10!
Tania was an amazing person to book this with! She was always attentive, I even called her at 2am because our shuttle hadn’t arrived and she pick up the phone, and shortly after the shuttle was there. I really enjoyed my experience in Machu Pichu and Tania made it better!
¡Experiencia increíble con Machu Picchu Peru Travel! Organizaron nuestro viaje de 7 días por Perú de manera impecable: todo perfectamente coordinado, desde los traslados hasta los tours. Gracias a su apoyo y dedicación, pudimos disfrutar al máximo cada destino sin preocuparnos por nada. 100% recomendados para quienes quieran descubrir Perú sin problemas
Outstanding experience with our Guide Willy! Everything was so organized, easy to understand and navigate. Highly recommend for private tours of two, which we did! It makes exploring Peru so much easier and enjoyable!
Super amables, excelentes atenciones, personal confiable, pendiente al detalle, puntuales. Nunca me dejaron sola y siempre buena comunicación. Me encantó y sobre todo muy buenos precios 🩷🙏🏽 excelentes paquetes
✨ Una experiencia inolvidable en Perú Mi viaje a Perú fue una experiencia increíble, ¡superó todas mis expectativas! ✨ Fueron cinco días llenos de aventuras y paisajes que parecen sacados de un sueño: Machu Picchu, la laguna, la montaña de colores… cada lugar fue simplemente espectacular 😍. Pero lo que realmente hizo la diferencia fue Tania, una persona súper atenta, pendiente de cada detalle y de todas nuestras necesidades. Gracias a ella, todo fue perfecto, sin preocupaciones y con una atención de primera. 🌄💖 Sin duda, un tour 1000% recomendado — una experiencia que jamás olvidaré. 🙌🇵🇪
We took the one-day tour to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. Although there was a small misunderstanding regarding the language of the tour, the team immediately resolved the issue, and we were assigned to another guide—an exceptional one. We really appreciated his attention to detail, the fact that he didn’t rush us throughout the tour, and that we had plenty of time to explore, take photos, and learn valuable information about the Incas and the history of Machu Picchu.
The tour to Rainbow Mountain was also excellent. I loved that the guide accompanied us to the Red Valley, even though this part of the tour was optional, and only five of us chose to do it that day. The tour included a varied and delicious breakfast and lunch, transportation, and a guide.
Overall, Machu Picchu Peru Travel was prompt, provided us with all the information we needed, and offered assistance both during and outside the tours. Communication was efficient, and the prices were fair. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!
We had an excellent experience on our 2-day Machu Picchu tour and would highly recommend this company.
A special thank you to Tania, who was absolutely fantastic throughout the entire process. She was incredibly friendly, responsive, and helpful from the moment we started planning our trip. We had a few changes and requests along the way, and Tania was always accommodating, making sure everything was organized perfectly and that our itinerary would work smoothly. Her communication was excellent, and she gave us confidence that everything was under control.
All of our transportation, train tickets, and logistics were arranged flawlessly, allowing us to enjoy the experience without any stress.
Our guide at Machu Picchu was also wonderful. He was knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about the history of the site.
Thank you to Tania and the entire team for making our Machu Picchu experience so memorable!
“Nuestra experiencia con esta agencia fue maravillosa desde el primer contacto. Tania nos atendió con una amabilidad y dedicación excepcionales, cuidando cada detalle del viaje. Siempre estuvo pendiente de nuestras dudas y nos brindó soluciones rápidas y eficaces. Gracias a su apoyo, todo salió perfecto y superó nuestras expectativas. Sin duda recomendamos a Tania y a la agencia al 100% por su excelente servicio.”
What an experience! We did all our excursions with this agency and it was the best possible choice we could make.
Our organizer Tania was in contact with us a few weeks before we even arrived in Cusco. She made us a proper itenary starting with Machu Picchu (lower elevation than cusco), then Sacred valley tour and Rainbow mountain last. Every day she was giving us extra information and making sure our schedule was up to date!
Also our guide Leni in the sacred Valley tour was the best we had in South America, many thanks to him as well!
We had a great time and plenty of experiences. Thank you Tania (and the agency) for everything you have done for us!!
We had the pleasure of having this tour in the last week and can only say positive things about the organisation provided by the agency. The tour is well organised and gives you plenty of days to acclimatise with the high altitude in Peru. I would strongly recommend this option if you’re looking for a holiday week to see the best of this incredible country!
Recomendadísimo, estuve en Perú sola por 7 días y adquirí todos mis toures con ellos, las experiencias todas fueron 10/10, una excelente atención las 24 horas.
I dreamed of going to Rainbow Mountain from the moment I first saw photos of it. As someone who usually prefers planning every detail of my own trips, realizing how overwhelming and way more costly this journey would be on my own was tough. I dug deep into social media to find the right agency, sent a WhatsApp message late one night to Machu Picchu Tours, and that’s when my friendship with Tania began.
I asked endless questions, and Tania gave us absolute white-glove treatment. From the second we landed in Cusco until the moment we departed, not a single detail was missed or overlooked. Our guides were incredible—deeply knowledgeable, immensely proud of their Incan heritage, and so passionate about sharing it that their energy was palpable.
Our Sacred Valley tour served as the perfect bridge, giving us the history and context we needed to truly appreciate Machu Picchu. Though Rainbow Mountain was my original focus, our excursion to Machu Picchu was world-class—with a special shoutout to Leo, whose guidance made it unforgettable. Ending our journey with the climb to Humantay Lake was both a physical challenge and a priceless gift. Pushing ourselves to reach the summit was the most rewarding way we could have ever closed out our time in Cusco.
What blew me away even more was how Tania handled the unexpected. When bad weather caused our flight to Lima to be canceled, she stepped in like a total pro. Within a matter of moments, she rearranged our flights, secured us a hotel, and organized our transportation for an unexpected extra night stay. She turned what could have been an overwhelming situation into a stress-free extra day of memories by taking care of everything seamlessly.
Machu Picchu Tours made my Cusco experience far more than I could have ever planned, dreamed of, or imagined. I actually left Cusco shedding tears because my heart simply wasn't ready to end such an incredible journey. If traveling to Peru or South America is on your bucket list, work with the team at Machu Picchu Tours. They won't just make a dream come true—they will give you an experience you will talk about for the rest of your life.
Tupananchiskama a mis nuevos amigos de Machupicchu Tours!!! M Nieves Kansas City
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Ready to experience Machu Picchu? Let our expert team take care of every detail, from entrance tickets and train arrangements to transportation and guidance, so you can focus on enjoying one of the world most breathtaking destinations. With years of experience, personalized assistance, and hundreds of happy travelers every year, we make your visit simple, safe, and unforgettable. Reserve your Machu Picchu tour today and secure your place at Peru’s most iconic wonder before availability runs out.
Need More Information?
If you have any questions or want to customize your experience, our local travel experts are ready to assist you 24/7.
The “Ruta del Sol” is a scenic bus tour from Puno to Cusco, offering stops at important cultural and historical sites along the way.
How long does the “Ruta del Sol” tour take?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, including guided stops and a lunch break.
What are the main stops on the tour?
Key stops include the Pukara Museum, La Raya Pass, Raqchi Temple, and the Andahuaylillas Chapel.
Is there a guide on the Tour Cusco Puno by bus?
Yes, the tour includes a professional guide who speaks both English and Spanish.
What is the altitude of La Raya Pass?
La Raya Pass is at 14,222 feet (4,335 meters), the highest point on the route.
What kind of lunch is provided?
A buffet lunch is included, offering a variety of national and regional dishes.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, but it involves some light walking at high altitudes.
Do I need to acclimatize before the tour?
It’s recommended to acclimatize to the altitude by spending a few days in Puno or Cusco before the tour.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed at most stops, though some sites may have restrictions. Always check with your guide.
What should I wear for the tour?
Dress in layers, as temperatures vary along the route. Bring a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes.
Are entry tickets included in the tour price?
Yes, entry tickets to all the stops are included in the tour price.
What time does the tour start?
The tour typically departs at 7:00 AM from Puno.
What is the highest point on the tour?
The highest point is La Raya Pass at 14,222 feet (4,335 meters).
Is there a bathroom on the bus?
Most buses on the “Ruta del Sol” tour are equipped with restrooms, but there are also stops with facilities.
How much does the “Ruta del Sol” tour cost?
Prices vary, but group tours are around $70 USD per person, and private tours start at $250 USD.
Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the “Ruta del Sol” tour is available throughout the year, though the dry season (May to October) offers better travel conditions.
The “Ruta del Sol” is a scenic bus journey between Puno and Cusco, offering travelers the opportunity to explore stunning landscapes, historical sites, and cultural treasures. Below, you’ll find essential information and recommendations for planning your trip, ensuring you’re fully prepared for this unforgettable adventure.
Recommendations for the “Ruta del Sol” Tour
Choosing the Right Tour
Several tour operators offer the Tour Cusco Puno by bus from Cusco, which typically lasts about 10 hours. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Some tours include meals, entry tickets, and guided visits to various attractions, so check what’s included.
Must-See Attractions in the “Rutal del Sol”
Pukara Museum (12,795 feet / 3,900 meters): Discover artifacts from the Pukara culture.
La Raya Pass (14,222 feet / 4,335 meters): Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes and take memorable photos.
Raqchi Temple (11,319 feet / 3,450 meters): Visit the archaeological complex dedicated to the God Wiracocha.
Andahuaylillas Church (10,151 feet / 3,093 meters): Admire the stunning murals and gold-leaf detailing in this 17th-century church.
Weather Along the Route
Altitudes and Temperatures
The “Ruta del Sol” covers a range of altitudes, starting at Puno(12,556 feet / 3,830 meters) and descending to Cusco (11,152 feet / 3,399 meters). Weather can vary significantly along the way.
Puno: Cool to cold, with daytime temperatures ranging from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C), and nights can drop to freezing.
Cusco: Warmer during the day, 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C), with cooler nights.
La Raya Pass: The highest point is cold year-round, often dipping below freezing at night.
Best Time to Travel
The dry season from May to October is ideal for clear skies and pleasant travel conditions. The rainy season, from November to March, can bring muddy roads and occasional delays.
Tips for a Comfortable Trip
Packing Essentials
Water: Staying hydrated is crucial at high altitudes.
Snacks: Although some tours provide meals, it’s a good idea to bring extra snacks.
Cash: Some stops may have small local vendors, and not all accept cards.
Camera: The route is packed with scenic photo opportunities, especially at La Raya Pass.
Altitude Considerations
You will be traveling at high altitudes, so it’s essential to acclimatize before the trip if you’re not used to such heights. Consider staying a few days in Puno or Cusco to adjust.
How to Dress for the “Ruta del Sol” Tour
Layering is Key
Base Layer: A moisture-wicking shirt is a good idea since temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
Middle Layer: Bring a warm fleece or sweater for cooler spots, especially in La Raya Pass.
Outer Layer: A waterproof jacket is handy during the rainy season.
Comfortable Shoes: Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots, especially for archaeological site visits.
Accessories
Sunglasses and Sunscreen: High-altitude sun can be intense, even on cloudy days.
Hat and Gloves: These are particularly useful in colder areas like La Raya Pass.
Restrictions for the Tour
Luggage Limits
Some bus tours have luggage size restrictions. Check with your tour operator for specific requirements. Usually, large suitcases are stored in the bus’s luggage compartment, and only small backpacks are allowed inside.
Photography
While photography is generally allowed, some cultural or sacred sites may restrict photo-taking. Always ask your guide for permission.
Ruta del Sol from Cusco to Puno
Health & Safety Protocols
Due to health safety guidelines, you may be required to wear a mask during certain parts of the tour, especially in enclosed spaces.
Physical Preparation
Fitness Level
The tour involves light walking at various stops, such as Raqchi and the Pukara Museum. While the walking is not strenuous, keep in mind the high altitude. If you have respiratory issues or heart conditions, consult with your doctor before the trip.
Acclimatization
To reduce the effects of altitude sickness, spend a few days in Puno or Cusco before starting the tour. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking it easy on physical activity during the first few days will help.
Health Recommendations for the “Ruta del Sol” Tour
Staying Hydrated
At high altitudes, dehydration can sneak up on you. Drink plenty of water throughout the trip. Coca tea, commonly available in the region, is also helpful for altitude sickness.
Altitude Sickness Precautions
Symptoms: Dizziness, headaches, and shortness of breath are common signs of altitude sickness. If you experience severe symptoms, inform your guide immediately.
Medications: Some travelers take medication like acetazolamide (Diamox) to prevent or treat altitude sickness. Consult your doctor before your trip for advice.
Food and Water Safety
Stick to bottled water during your trip, especially in more remote areas. The buffet lunch provided by most tours is generally safe, but it’s always wise to carry hand sanitizer and wet wipes for extra cleanliness.
This guide aims to prepare you for an amazing journey along the “Ruta del Sol,” filled with breathtaking views and cultural wonders!
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