The Route of the Sun from Cusco to Puno offers travelers a captivating full-day journey. Along the way, they’ll visit remarkable sites like the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas and the Inca Temple of Raqchi. Travelers can enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and explore the Lithic Museum of Pukara, all while taking in breathtaking landscapes. This route showcases Peru’s rich cultural and historical heritage, leaving visitors eager to discover more about this fascinating destination.

About Your Stay

Route of the Sun Cusco Puno - About Your Stay

  • The Route of the Sun is a full-day sightseeing journey between Cusco and Puno, covering cultural and archaeological highlights along the scenic route.
  • Key stops include the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, the Inca Temple of Raqchi, and the Lithic Museum of Pukara.
  • The tour includes hotel pickup, shared transportation, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees, catering to a maximum of 15 travelers.
  • The Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas features Andean Baroque architecture, while the Inca Temple of Raqchi showcases Inca engineering prowess.
  • The Lithic Museum of Pukara provides insights into the rich archaeological heritage of the region.

Tour Overview

Route of the Sun Cusco Puno - Tour Overview

The Route of the Sun is a full-day sightseeing journey between the cities of Cusco and Puno.

This convenient tour includes hotel pickup and shared transfers, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Along the way, you’ll visit the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, the Inca temple of Raqchi, and the Lithic Museum of Pukara.

A buffet lunch at a restaurant is also included.

With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, this is a great way to explore the region’s highlights in a small group setting.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

Route of the Sun Cusco Puno - Itinerary Highlights

Along the Route of the Sun journey, travelers will first visit the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, a stunning example of Andean Baroque architecture. Next, they will explore the impressive Inca temple of Raqchi, which offers a glimpse into the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization. The tour then takes them to the Lithic Museum of Pukara, where they can discover the region’s rich archaeological heritage. Throughout the day, guests will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at a restaurant along the way.

Itinerary Highlights
Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas
Inca Temple of Raqchi
Lithic Museum of Pukara
Buffet Lunch
Scenic Route

Inclusions

Route of the Sun Cusco Puno - Inclusions

This tour package covers the essentials, including a guided tour throughout the circuit, transportation from Cusco to Puno, a delicious buffet lunch, and entrance fees.

The guided tour allows travelers to fully experience the highlights along the way, such as the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, the Inca temple of Raqchi, and the Lithic Museum of Pukara.

Lunch is provided at a restaurant along the route, ensuring travelers are well-fed during the day’s adventures.

The entrance fee of $16 USD is also included, granting access to all the sites visited.

With these inclusions, travelers can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage of the Route of the Sun journey between Cusco and Puno.

Pickup Information

Where will travelers be picked up for this tour?

Travelers will be picked up from the lobby of their hotel. They’re advised to wait 10 minutes for the guide to arrive. The guide will contact each traveler 15 minutes prior to the scheduled 7:00 AM pickup time.

This tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, so it’s important for participants to be ready on time.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or travelers with serious medical conditions.

Confirmation of the booking will be received upon completion.

Additional Information

Travelers should take note that this tour is non-refundable, meaning no refunds will be issued for cancellations.

The tour is also not wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers per tour. Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of booking.

Exploring the Church of San Pedro

The Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas is the first stop along the Route of the Sun journey. This 17th-century church is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and intricate interior decorations.

Visitors can explore:

  1. The ornate altar, adorned with gold leaf and intricate carvings.
  2. The vibrant frescoes that cover the church’s walls and ceilings.
  3. The impressive pipe organ, a testament to the region’s rich musical heritage.

The church’s well-preserved state and cultural significance make it a must-visit for those embarking on the Route of the Sun.

Its serene ambiance and captivating details provide a glimpse into Peru’s colonial past and the enduring influence of Catholicism in the region.

Discovering the Inca Temple of Raqchi

Route of the Sun Cusco Puno - Discovering the Inca Temple of Raqchi

Next along the journey, visitors discover the impressive Inca temple of Raqchi. This archaeological site, once a significant religious center, boasts the remains of a massive temple dedicated to the god Viracocha.

Travelers can explore the intricate stone walls, admire the architectural mastery, and imagine the bustling activity that once filled this sacred space.

The site’s highlights include the towering central temple, the remains of residential structures, and the impressive stone aqueduct system that supplied water to the complex.

Exploring Raqchi offers a glimpse into the engineering prowess and spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization, providing an enriching addition to the Route of the Sun journey.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

According to the tour overview, outside food is not mentioned as an inclusion. However, the tour does provide a buffet lunch, so bringing your own food may not be necessary. It’s best to confirm with the tour operator if outside food is permitted.

What Is the Ideal Group Size for the Tour?

The ideal group size for the tour is a maximum of 15 travelers. This smaller group size allows for a more personalized and interactive experience throughout the day’s sightseeing activities.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sun protection, and dress in layers for the varied weather conditions along the route. The tour provides all necessary transportation and admission fees.

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Date?

Yes, you can book the tour for a different date. The tour operates daily, so you can select the date that works best for your schedule. Contact the tour provider to check availability and make your reservation.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour?

Unfortunately, the Route of the Sun tour doesn’t offer any upgrade options. The tour package includes all the key highlights and services, and the tour operator doesn’t provide additional upgrade packages for this specific sightseeing experience.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Route of the Sun from Cusco to Puno offers an unforgettable cultural and historical journey, showcasing Peru’s rich heritage. Travelers will visit stunning Baroque architecture, explore Inca engineering, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes, all while enjoying a delightful buffet lunch and discovering the Lithic Museum. This captivating full-day tour provides an enriching experience that truly captures the essence of Peru.