Day Trips from Cusco to Lake Titicaca

1. Cusco to Rainbow Mountain to Puno

Rainbow Mountain Trek Ending In Puno

From $ 167 USD Per Person

Max Altitude: 4400 m.s.n.m

Group Size: Up to 8 people

Service: Group

Transportation: Van, Bus, train

Difficulty: Easy

Duration: 1 Days

• Trips Managed & Run by Expert Local Tour Operator
• Easy, Fast & Risk-Free Services - Bookings Guaranteed.
• Personalized Services with Small Groups
• Tours are a Great a Value for the Money.
• Unique & Customized Tour Itineraries.
• Best Certified Guides & Teams in the Region.

We offer the most entertaining, safe and comfortable way travelling by bus between Cusco and Puno and vice versa, in whcih we do include the Rainbow mountain trek and Raqchi Ina site. By taking our tour you save a lot of time between Cusco and Puno, then you can explore Lake Titica too.

Overview

Y BEST Schedule for this unique designed tour!

Pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 4am in our private van and then we drive for 3 hours to the trailhead.

The hike up takes about 1.5 hours along a trail that goes up a desert valley, with full view of glaciers.

By 8:30am, We will arrive to the Rainbow Mountain, enjoy and take tons pictures of everything, then we return taking the same way.

By 10:30am We drive back to Cusipata and then drive to Racchi and we explore this unique Inca city.

Finally we drive to Puno for 4 hours.

By 6pm, we should arrive to Puno and then we will drop you at your hotel.

***** We can offer you the Pacoyoc Mountain instead the Rainbow mt too.

*****A horse can be hired for the majority of the trek. However, the last 600m are too steep for horses and you will have to walk this last part.

Itinerary

We will pick you up from your hotel at 4am, and begin with our amazing Rainbow Mountain Trek Adventure. We set out on our drive for 3 hours through the South Valley; ending up at the trailhead at Llacto (4,638m / 15,216 ft). Along the way, there are amazing views of farming Inca terraces, traditional villages, valleys and high Andean peaks.

The herds of alpacas and llamas near your breakfast place will entertain you in the early morning. Once we reach the trailhead, we start on our hike following a lovely stream. As you start your hike, you will have views of the Ausangate Mountain and glaciers. You can interact with the local people, who are still keeping traditional Quechua culture alive. Learn about their traditional clothes and the significance of the different hats worn by the men. Ask your guide to teach you a few words of Quechua!

After a total hike of 1.5 hours, we finally reach our destination: the Rainbow Mountain (5,020m /16,466ft). After admiring the unique beauty, you will have time to explore the area. You can take pictures or just soak up the view. We will spend approximately 30 minutes at the top. Afterwards, there is an optional hike across to the top of the Red Valley. This walk takes about 45 minutes longer to get back to the trailhead.

At this point, we hike back down the way we came. The hike takes 1 hour.

We will embark on the 2-hour drive on the way to Raqchi, lets explore this unique and amazing Inca city.

Fanally we drive to Puno for 3 hours, arriving to our hotel by 6pm

**** We can offer your the Pacoyoc Mountain instead the Rainbow mt!

• Meals included: Lunch
• Difficulty: moderate to challenging

What is included

• Pick up from your hotel to the bus station
• English speaking guide
• Lunch
• Entrance ticket to sites
• Oxygen tank for emergencies
• Air conditioning
• GPS satellite tracking of transit

What is not included

• Tips
• Hotel in Puno
• Breakfast and dinner
• Transfer out to Juliaca airport

This unique and new designed day trip is available onany date that is best for you as long we have a minimum of 2 people.

PRICE:

Price for 2 people: $240 per person.

Price for 3 people: $197 per person.

Price for 4 people: $187 per person

Price for 5 or more people: $167

***This price includes the transfer from your hotel to the bus station in Cusco

***Note that this tour can be done from Puno to Cusco also.

WHY CHOOSE TRAVEL?

SAM Travel Peru is a family owned travel agency and a local tour operator based in Cusco with personal experience over many years of trekking. SAM Travel Peru is a 100% Cusqueñian Company without any shareholders.

Our dream as a locally based company is to create small personalized tours & treks strictly and only operated by local professional staff catering in PERSONALIZED and HIGH QUALITY SERVICE.

We take pride in our reputation as a RESPONSIBLE & SUSTAINABLE tour operator. Our staff are our extended family. We ensure they are supported financially by offering them a fair salary. We are proud of our team without them, we wouldn’t be able to offer the best service and lifetime experiences to our clients.

SAM Travel Peru knows how important it is to trust in a reliable honest operator to create your adventure of a lifetime while in Peru. Check out our reviews and certificates of excellence on, TRIPADVISOR for yourself! Also we are highly recommended on Conde Nast Travelers, Lonely Planet and by many blogs like: Salkantay/Inka Trail ! July 14th to 20th 2016 Trek de Lares 4 hours, “It’s the journey, not the destination…”, Lares Pass – Day 3, Trekking in the Sacred Valley.

OUR SERVICE PROJECTS

Travel Travel has always believed that we should give back to the local isolated communities. Therefore, as part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we always do many service projects and hire locally.

SAM Travel Peru is so proud to be able to support these people, not only employing them but go back to our grassroots as they share with  their families. It makes us happy to have this holistic approach with our highland employees and their families!

Just email us at:

[email protected]

Or WhatsApp us to:

+51 965154772 (Fredy, the guy responsible of answering your emails and inquiries at headquarter)

How to book

1. You can get it fully booked by paying an Initial Amount via PayPal and the Total Balance must be paid in USD or PEN cash at the end of tour, then this is how you’ll get your Tour Confirmation from us.
2. After we receive your “Booking Request”, we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link and the exact first amount to be paid.
3. Additional information and requirements will be detailed on the email (or via WhatsApp).

After we receive your email we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link.

The exact amount and additional requirements will be sent to you later.

Now please, start by filling the Booking Form below.

2. Inka Express Cusco to Puno

Inka Express Tour Bus Service the exclusive service for tourist transportation from Cusco to Puno, or vice versa.

Our Route of the Sun tour

Our buses follow what we call the “Route of the Sun,” which is a day-long tour throughout Andean countryside with 5 stops to see various Incan ruins and historical sites. It is by far the most comfortable and fun way to make the trip from Cusco to Puno, or from Puno to Cusco.

What We offer between Cusco and Puno

Inka Express offers daily morning departures at 06:50 hrs from both Cusco and Puno. All trips are one-way and last approximately 10 hours with a mini tour about every 1.5 hours, including a buffet lunch.

Our buses are custom-built and feature wide, reclinable seats with extra legroom and an onboard bathroom. Other amenities include: A/C, heating, overhead storage space, trunk storage space, supplemental oxygen, hot and cold beverages, portable audio systems, and more.

Cusco to Puno Bus VIP Tourist Service

Overview

This tour Cusco to Puno bus Inka Express, also known as the ‘Sun Route’ lasts approximately 10 hours, in the course we will have 4 stops in tourist places and visit with the guide to each tourist attraction such as the temple of Andahuaylillas or Sistine Chapel of America, the Inka temple of Raqchi, the pass of the Raya at 4335 meters above sea level and the Inka Aymara museum of Pukara. Each visit lasts 20 to 40 minutes, where the passenger can ask questions, take pictures and explore the attraction at their own discretion, making this experience an unforgettable activity.

Buffet lunch: It consists of foods from the Andes with which they prepare typical food and international Novo Andina food, the diet includes legumes, grains, red and white meats, varieties of salads, a selection of desserts and a variety of hot drinks. which are served in a comfortable restaurant typical of the city of Sicuani.

Departure Cusco to Puno bus

Bus departs from Av. Alameda Pachacuteq 499-B. Cusco at 6:40 am

Arrival

The bus arrives at Puno’s Earth Terminal at 05:00 pm.

CUSCO TO PUNO BUS ITINERARY

6:40 am — Departure (Cusco) — 3400 meters of altitude. Av. Alameda

Pachacuteq 499-B.

Andahuaylillas “Sistine Chapel of America”

7:40 am — 3122 meters of altitude.

There, you will find the church of San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas, built by the Jesuits in the 16th century. Like other Spanish and religious constructions of the time, it was built on top of a huaca or sacred place for the Incas. Made of adobe and brick, the church is a small structure consisting of a single nave, apse and bell tower. But there is a reason why it is known as the “Sistine Chapel of America“.

Raqchi “Temple of Wiracocha”

10:00 am — 3450 meters of altitude.

The most important building within the complex is the “Wiracocha temple” that according to the ancient chroniclers was built by the Inca Wiracocha in honor of the invisible Superior God of the Andean people: “Apu Kon Titi Wiracocha”. The “Wiracocha Temple” is a great construction for that age. Architecturally it is classified as “Kallanka”, that is, a tall building completely covered with straw (wood and “ichu”). Externally it is 92 meters long (302 feet) and 25.25 meters wide (83 feet).

Marangani Buffet Lunch

11:35 am — 3552 meters altitude.

Sicuani is a relatively large city of the highlands. The city is an important intersection, with the road to Puno / Arequipa passing through here. This city is surrounded by beautiful snowy hills. Afterwards, you have a buffet lunch in our exclusive restaurant with a family atmosphere.

La Raya

12:50 pm — 4335 meters of altitude.

Abra La Raya (La Raya) is the watershed between the valley that flows into Lake Titicaca and the valley that leads to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The altitude is 4,338 meters (14,232 feet).

Pucará Museum

2:30 pm — 3900 meters of altitude.

Pucará was the first regional population nucleus in the Titicaca basin north of the lake during the Late Formative Period (500 BC-200 AD), which provides valuable information about the origins of the Andean civilization in the highlands. During its heyday it covered more than a square kilometer and housed thousands of bureaucrats, priests, artisans, farmers, shepherds, and possibly warriors.

The Pucará style is identified by impressive monolithic sculptures with a variety of geometric, zoomorphic, and more intricate anthropomorphic images, multi-colored ceramics in a variety of ritual and domestic forms.

Bus terminal Puno

5:00 pm – Arrival (Puno) – 3800 meters of altitude.

Note: “Our itinerary varies according to weather changes”

Regular Price USD 50.00

• The tour from Cusco to Puno bus includes
• Transportation to Puno
• Guided visit to Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, La Raya and the Lithic Museum of Pucará
• Buffet Lunch in Marangani – Sicuani
• Service on board (Hot Drinks: Tea, coffee, coca tea, chamomile, anise / Cold Drinks: Coca Cola, Inca and mineral water)
• Hygienic services, oxygen, heating

The cost DOES NOT include

• Access Fees to places of visit (Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, Pucará)
• Breakfast
• Accommodation in Puno
• Extra expensesa

Request Further Information. Get more. Do more.

If you have questions and doubts about this private Cusco City Tour, take your time in telling us your inquiries and we’ll show you a lot more options to do.

Just email us at:

[email protected]

Or WhatsApp us to:

+51 965154772 (Fredy, the guy responsible of answering your emails and inquiries at headquarter)

How to book

1. You can get it fully booked by paying an Initial Amount via PayPal and the Total Balance must be paid in USD or PEN cash at the end of tour, then this is how you’ll get your Tour Confirmation from us.
2. After we receive your “Booking Request”, we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link and the exact first amount to be paid.
3. Additional information and requirements will be detailed on the email (or via WhatsApp).

After we receive your email we';ll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link.

The exact amount and additional requirements will be sent to you later.

Now please, start by filling the Booking Form below.

3. Turismo Mer Cusco to Puno

TOURISTIC BUS CUSCO – PUNO SUN’S ROUTE

DESCRIPTION:

The service is provided in buses equipped purely for a touristic trip, looking for the best way to travel from Cusco to Puno and from Puno to Cusco, so our client can enjoy different locations that hold magical charm and an ancestral history, such as: The Sistine Chapel of the Americas or the Andahuaylillas church, the mighty Temple of Wiracocha, the majestic La Raya pass (road limit between Cusco and Puno, with a beautiful view of the Chimboya Glacier, and the fascinating Lithic Museum of the Pukará culture.

THE SERVICE ALSO INCLUDES:

• Bilingual guide (English-Spanish), on board and also on the places to visit.
• The service inside the bus is conceived so our passengers are able to enjoy hot beverages, such as “Mate de Coca”, Anise tea, chamomile mate and coffee, and also cold beverages like Coke, Inca Kola, mineral water and fruit nectar. We also include a tasting of the famous Oropesa Bread (Pan Chuta). All of this is included in the fares along with the service of ground attendants.
• Buffet lunch in a touristic restaurant known as “La Pascana”.
  

1) DEPARTURE FROM CUSCO: BUS STATION (PRIVATE TERMINAL), FOUND IN 28 DE JULIO AVENUE X 1-2. REFERENCE SITE: FIRST BRIDGE.

Registration time for your ticket and luggage: 6:40 in the morning.

Exact departure time: 7:00 in the morning.

2) THE ANDAHUAYLILLAS CHURCH.(3,093 METERS ABOVE SEA LEVEL)

This church was built during the 17th century and it is also known as “The Sistine Chapel of America” because of the beauty and profusion of its murals, the ornaments in gold leaf and paintings from de “Escuela Cusqueña de Arte”.

IMPORTANT: The visit last for 25 minutes. It is not allowed to record or take pictures inside the church. The entry fee costs S/. 15.00

3) THE ARCHAEOLOGYCAL SITE OF RAQCHI (3.450 METERE ABOVE SEA LEVEL).

Also known as the Temple of WIRACOCHA, named after Wiracocha, a supreme deity in the Inca civilization. In this location we will find the biggest amount of barns (Colcas) and we will see magnificent constructions in stone and sun-dried bricks. 

IMPORTANT: The visit lasts for 40 minutes and we recommend using hats or caps with wide edges as well as sun block. The entry fee costs S/. 15.00.

4) TOURISTIC RESTAURANT “LA PASCANA”

Lunch is included in the price of the ticket, and in this case is a buffet kind of lunch in a touristic restaurant named LA PASCANA which is very renowned and known for the great ability of its chefs. The restaurant is strategically located in the outskirts of Sicuani. The buffet includes a broad variety of national and regional food in the form of appetizers, fresh vegetables, garnishes and the best desserts and hot beverages (“Mate de Coca”, coffee and tea), all of which are included in the price of our ticket.

IMPORTANT: Lunch lasts for 40 minutes. Cold beverages such as water, soda pop, or beer are not included in the price.

5) THE LA RAYA PASS (4.335 METERS ABOVE THE SEAL LEVEL).

It is the border between the departments of Cusco and Puno, at a height of over 4.335 meters above the sea level. From that place you will be able to see the famous Chimboya Glacier where the Amazon River is born. There, the passengers will be able to take pictures of the landscape. This stop lasts between 5 and 7 minutes.

IMPORTANT: We recommend the use of warm coats as well as the consumption of “mate de coca” to avoid the altitude sickness (soroche).

6) THE LITHIC MUSEUM OF PUKARÁ. (3,900 METERS ABOVE THE SEA LEVEL)

The Pukará culture was developed between the years 1600 B.C. and 400 A.D., on a high plateau located 106 kilometers north-east of the city of Puno. In this museum we can find pottery and sculptures representing zoomorphic figures, amongst which we can see the famous sculpture of the HATUNÑAQAC, meaning in our language “The Supreme Executioner”.

IMPORTANT: The visit lasts for 30 minutes and it is not allowed to record or take photos at the museum. The entry fee costs S/. 10,00.

7) ARRIVAL TO PUNO: 05:00 IN THE AFTERNOON

Bus Station (private terminal) in Puno: 430, Costanera Avenue.

Request Further Information. Get more. Do more.

If you have questions and doubts about this private Cusco City Tour, take your time in telling us your inquiries and we’ll show you a lot more options to do.

Just email us at:

[email protected]

Or WhatsApp us to:

+51 965154772 (Fredy, the guy responsible of answering your emails and inquiries at headquarter)

How to book

1. You can get it fully booked by paying an Initial Amount via PayPal and the Total Balance must be paid in USD or PEN cash at the end of tour, then this is how you’ll get your Tour Confirmation from us.
2. After we receive your “Booking Request”, we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link and the exact first amount to be paid.
3. Additional information and requirements will be detailed on the email (or via WhatsApp).

After we receive your email we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link.

The exact amount and additional requirements will be sent to you later.

Now please, start by filling the Booking Form below.

4. Private Car Cusco to Puno

CUSCO – PUNO (Lake Titicaca)

Private Transportation

RATES 2022

PRIVATE SERVICES

We have carefully selected the best private transport options, from Cusco to Puno, all year around. RUMBO EXPLORA offer you the possibility to make your transport reservation, due that not all transport companies have an automatic booking system. We will confirm your reservation within 24 hours.

CUSCO – PUNO (Peru)

Private Tourist Transportation

ORIGIN / DESTIN. RATES APPLY TRANSPORT / SPECIFICATIONS

• Cusco / Puno: 386km US$280.00 01 – 04 people Minivan (Hyundai – H1) N° of Seats: 05 + luggage space
• Cusco / Puno: 386km US$280.00 01 – 04 people Minivan (Hyundai – H1) N° of Seats: 05 + luggage space
• Cusco / Puno: 386km US$330.00 05 – 08 people Sprinter (Mercedes Benz) N° of Seats: 10 + luggage space
• Cusco / Puno: 386km US$400.00 09 – 12 people Large Sprinter (Mercedes Benz) N° of Seats: 15 + luggage space
• Cusco / Puno: 386km US$515.00 US$540.00 13-19 people 20-25 people Minibus Irizar (Mercedes Benz) N° of Seats: 25 + luggage space
• Cusco / Puno: 386km US$800.00 US$840.00 20-30 people 31-42 people Bus Irizar (Mercedes Benz) N° of Seats: 42 + luggage space

CUSCO – PUNO (Peru)

Private Tourist Transportation

DESCRIPTION OF ITINERARY:

DAY 01: CUSCO – PUNO: Early departure by private transport from the city of Cusco. We start our tour to Puno, travelling along the mountains arriving to Andahuaylillas, a typical Andean village from colonial time, of origin and unique architecture located 40 km away from Cusco on the river Vilcanota. In Andahuaylillas stand out its Catholic church from the colonial time with a beautiful mural decoration since XVII and XVIII century known as the Sistine Chapel of América, the quality of the artwork found inside. This church was built on Incas construction by the Jesuits in the XVI century, with walls of adobe and stone columns. Inside of the church left side is the inscription I baptize you in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit Amen, the most interesting is that the inscription is written in 5 languages like Latin, Quechua, Aimara, uro puquina and Castilian (uro puquina extinct). Raqchi: Stop in Raqchi which was one of the most important places in the Inca times, as Raqchi was the limit between Cusco and Puno (route to Collasuyo) for that reason was built here over 200 barns (food stores, to save food in the drought time), agricultural terraces, stone walls, and qolqas (store houses). Also here is located one of the largest temples built in the time of the Inca Pachacutec to devote as worship to the god Wiracocha. There is a great central wall with a stone base likewise there are other walls built of adobe (water, mud and straw) now a day it is used to build houses in rural areas in the Andes. The central wall has a height of 12m, 92m long, 25.5m wide, 1.20m thick walls, its roof a slope of 50 °, the columns were 1.60m in diameter and height of 9.80m. Sicuani: We stop to have lunch at a quiet countryside restaurant where you will enjoy the traditional Peruvian dish (buffet lunch). La Raya: Continuing the trip we got to La Raya the highest point on the route Cusco to Puno which is 4338 m cold and remote place, where we will see the snowy peaks of the Andes Mountains Range, the South American camelids like llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. La Raya is the limit between Cusco and Puno; here it originates the rivers that go to Cusco and Lake Titicaca. Pucara: Town of talented ceramicists, located 106 km away from Puno, an important place of livestock, textiles and pottery. On this area Pucará culture was developed over 3000 years ago, today it is possible to see the famous temple of Kalasaya an archaeological site, where the people of Pucará culture had made offerings to the Pachamama and to sun. Also visit the museum that holds the remains of the Pucara culture such as obelisks, potteries, textiles and human bones, because this culture is considered one of the first civilizations of the Peruvian-Bolivian high plateau. Arrival in Puno, the cradle of the ancient civilizations.

NOTE:

If the private transport is direct, time of travel from Cusco to Puno is around 6:00 hours.

If the private transport is with stops en route, time of travel from Cusco to Puno is around 9:00 hours. Including stop at restaurant for lunch. Departing from Cusco at 7:00am, Arriving in Puno: 17:00pm.

WHAT IS INCLUDED: Private tourist transportation from Cusco to Puno, including stops en route (Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, La Raya, Pucara village). Besides pre-trip information + organization and all local sales taxes. There are no hidden extras in our prices.

NOT INCLUDED: Entrance tickets, buffet lunch, drinks, extras, tips.

IMPORTANT: Our tourist transportation vehicles have nationwide circulation permit and 2 types of insurance (Certificate of Statutory Accident Insurance Transit SOAT, besides has vehicle Insurance Policy to all risks in record) + oxygen &  first aid kit + panoramic windows + reclining & confortable seats, exclusive for our demanding customers. We provide to visitors all possible choices. Beware with illegal local Tour Operators or middleman, who do not pay the real costs to suppliers (transport, local restaurants & guest houses, tour guides & drivers). Help us avoid the exploitation.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

LAND TRANSPORTATION

Technical specifications: Minivan Hyundai H1 (05 seats) Sprinter Mercedes Benz & Renault (10 to 19 seats), Minibus Mercedes Benz Irizar (25 to 30 seats), Bus Mercedes Benz Irizar (40-44 seats)

First Aid Kit & Oxygen: Oxygen bottle & first aid kit in all our excursions & transfers Equipped with: Reclining seats, retractile seat belts, air conditioner, heating system, plugs for mobile devices.

Insurance policy: Our vehicles have National permit circulation and (Certificate of obligatory Insurance for accidents of transit SOAT, besides all vehicles have Insurance Policy to all risks in record)

IMPORTANT NOTE:

You can see that in Rumbo Explora we have developed for you tailor-made itineraries with the best price as competitive as possible, providing an excellent service and paying our guides 10% above the legal wage agreed with the tour guides in Peru. Our staff are some of the best paid in Cusco & Machupicchu, Puno & Lake Titicaca, Arequipa & Colca canyon, Lima and Nazca & Paracas, which allows us to attract only the Best Tour Guides, Motor Boats and Land Transportation with national permit, to none other local company, that can only provide a cheaper price by providing a far inferior service and saving on staff costs, ¿How? Hiring tour guides in training without experience and not paying them, besides avoiding taxes to government.

Big Travel companies from Europe, North America, Australia and others work with the Peruvian Tour Operators located in Lima-Peru, who work as middlemen receiving from them good prices from the Tours & Packages, and paying to us 40 to 50% minor the normal price, besides 2 to 3 months delayed, being this the reason that Rumbo Explora have decided to offer tours & packages directly to travelers.

Request Further Information. Get more. Do more.

If you have questions and doubts about this private Cusco City Tour, take your time in telling us your inquiries and we’ll show you a lot more options to do.

Just email us at:

[email protected]

Or WhatsApp us to:

+51 965154772 (Fredy, the guy responsible of answering your emails and inquiries at headquarter)

How to book

1. You can get it fully booked by paying an Initial Amount via PayPal and the Total Balance must be paid in USD or PEN cash at the end of tour, then this is how you’ll get your Tour Confirmation from us.
2. After we receive your “Booking Request”, we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link and the exact first amount to be paid.
3. Additional information and requirements will be detailed on the email (or via WhatsApp).

After we receive your email we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link.

The exact amount and additional requirements will be sent to you later.

Now please, start by filling the Booking Form below.

5. Cusco to Puno Bus

SORT BY: Transportes Libertad BUS CAMA

Departure: 07:00 Terminal Terrestre De Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 08h 00m

Arrival: 15:00

Ratings: 3.3

Fare: Starts from S/ 40

Seats: 39 seats available

Available: 25 Window

………….

SORT BY: Transzela INCA SUITE

Departure: 08:30 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 07h 30m

Arrival: 16:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: 4.2

Fare: S/ 50

Seats: 19 seats available

Available: 14 Window

………….

SORT BY: Turismo San Luis BUS CAMA

Departure: 09:30 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 07h 00m

Arrival: 16:30 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: 1.4

Fare: starts from S/ 40

Seats: 59 seats available

Available: 31 Window

………….

SORT BY: Turismo Grisman BUS CAMA

Departure: 14:00 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 08h 00m

Arrival: 22:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: New bus service

Fare: starts from S/ 50

Seats: 15 seats available

Available: 3 Window

………….

SORT BY: Transportes Libertad BUS CAMA

Departure: 20:00 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 08h 00m

Arrival: 04:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: 2.1

Fare: starts from S/ 50

Seats: 41 seats available

Available: 26 Window

………….

SORT BY: Turismo Mer DIRECT BUS

Departure: 21:45 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 08h 15m

Arrival: 06:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: 4.1

Fare: starts from S/ 60

Seats: 4 seats available

Available: 2 Window

………….

SORT BY: Nuevo Continente DIRECT BUS

Departure: 22:00 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 08h 00m

Arrival: 06:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: 3.0

Fare: starts from S/ 70

Seats: 11 seats available

Available: 2 Window

………….

SORT BY: Transportes Libertad

Departure: 22:00 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 08h 00m

Arrival: 06:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: 2.0

Fare: starts from S/ 40

Seats: 55 seats available

Available: 29 Window

………….

SORT BY: Avalos Tours LUXURY

Departure: 22:00 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 07h 00m

Arrival: 05:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: 4.5

Fare: starts from S/ 60

Seats: 31 seats available

Available: 19 Window

………….

SORT BY: Trans Salvador BUS CAMA

Departure: 22:00 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 08h 00m

Arrival: 06:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: New bus service

Fare: starts from S/ 70

Seats: 18 seats available

Available: 19 Window

………….

SORT BY: Transzela INCA SUITE

Departure: 22:15 Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Aprox. Duration: 07h 00m

Arrival: 05:00 Terminal Terrestre Puno

Ratings: 4.0

Fare: starts from S/ 60

Seats: 36 seats available

Available: 24 Window

Request Further Information. Get more. Do more.

If you have questions and doubts about this private Cusco City Tour, take your time in telling us your inquiries and we’ll show you a lot more options to do.

Just email us at:

[email protected]

Or WhatsApp us to:

+51 965154772 (Fredy, the guy responsible of answering your emails and inquiries at headquarter)

How to book

1. You can get it fully booked by paying an Initial Amount via PayPal and the Total Balance must be paid in USD or PEN cash at the end of tour, then this is how you’ll get your Tour Confirmation from us.
2. After we receive your “Booking Request”, we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link and the exact first amount to be paid.
3. Additional information and requirements will be detailed on the email (or via WhatsApp).

After we receive your email we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link.

The exact amount and additional requirements will be sent to you later.

Now please, start by filling the Booking Form below.

6. Cusco to Rainbow Mountain

All You Need to Know to Get to Rainbow Mountain

One trip that many visitors to Cusco look forward to when they come is Rainbow Mountain, aka Vinicunca. It’s the protagonist of many photos and we’re sure you’ve seen the array of colors on this spectacular creation of Mother Nature. 

You can visit the mountain in a day from the city and enjoy a challenging hike to the top. You will need to spend two or three days to acclimate in Cusco before you head to Vinicunca because you’ll reach a little over 5,200 masl.

Once you get there, you’ll be greeted with some incredible views of the rainbow-colored mountain as well as a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. If you have time or are up for an extra hike, you can add a visit to the Red Valley, which almost feels as though you’re stepping foot on Mars!

All that aside, first you need to know how to get there. A lot of visitors opt to go with an agency or tour operator, mainly because everything’s included, which makes things much easier. However, some prefer to go it alone. This might be because they want to save a little money or they like the idea of the adventure.

Whatever way you’re thinking of getting to Rainbow Mountain, we’ve put together everything you need to know to get there safely plus some other important  information and tips.

What to Take

Before you head on your journey, you’ll need to know what essentials to take with you. You only need a small daypack. Carrying too much will make it hard to hike at a high altitude.

• Waterproof jacket or lightweight poncho in case of showers
• Warm clothing – thin layers are best as you can take them off and put them on as your temperature changes
• Sunscreen of factor 50+ – you’ll be very close to the sun up here - Sunhat and sunglasses
• 2 liters of water per person (You can also buy this at the base and at the top)
• Snacks for the hike to give you a boost of energy
• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Cash in small denominations for snacks and water
  

How to Get to Rainbow Mountain With a Tour

When you plan to go to Rainbow Mountain as part of a tour group, there isn’t so much you need to know as everything will be taken care of. You’ll need to research some tour companies online beforehand or visit some different ones once you get to Cusco to choose the best one.

Get in touch with them and book your trip. If you’re not yet in Cusco, the best way to do this is by emailing the tour company. You’ll need to make a deposit or pay in full beforehand to reserve your tour.

On the day of your excursion, the tour group will likely pick you up from your accommodation and take you on the trip. They’ll also bring you back to your accommodation at the end of the day.

Advantages of Going With a Tour

You don’t need to worry about any of the logistics as the tour company will do it all for you.

Everything is included, such as transport, food, and a guide. You’ll need to check if the entrance fee is included or not as you might need to take this amount with you in cash.

There’s no need to worry about finding transport or that you’ll find it hard to get back to Cusco.

How to Get to Rainbow Mountain Without a Tour

If you plan on going without a tour, you’ll need to do some more planning. Also, many people think that this way is more economical, but it doesn’t always work out that way. Here’s a step-by-step description of how you’ll need to go about traveling to Rainbow Mountain.

The first thing you need to organize is getting from Cusco to the town of Checacupe. Now, you can hire a private taxi to do this for you, but this costs more and prices vary. Otherwise, you can find public transport from Avenida Tomasa Tito Condemayta to Ocongate. This transport costs 7 or 8 soles and you’ll be traveling for around 2 hours. Make sure you get off where the taxis are waiting.

Upon arrival in Checacupe, you’ll need to barter with the local taxi drivers to take you to Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain). This can cost up to 100 soles and the car will wait for you to do the hike and bring you back, meaning you don’t need to worry about how you’ll get back. Bear in mind that the more people there are the cheaper it’ll cost per person.

Once you’re at the mountain, you’ll see lots of other groups doing the tour, so it’s easy to follow where they’re going and the trail is very obvious. The round trip is around 3 hours plus 30 minutes or so at the top to take in the incredible scenery. 

When you get back to the car park, you’ll be able to get into your taxi and head back to Checacupe.

You can ask your driver to take you to the bus stop in Checacupe, which is the easiest way to get back to Cusco. Trying to find a private taxi to take you back to Cusco is difficult from Checacupe.

Advantages of Going Without a Tour

You have the freedom of leaving when you like in the morning and don’t need to wait around for other travelers during the day out.

You might be able to save some money, depending on how many people are in your group.

Stop and eat when you like, where you like.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain, and Cusco in general, is during the dry season. This way, the sky is clearer meaning you get a better view. There’s also no risk of falls or slips due to the rail being wet.

The dry season is from May to October. These two months are the best times to visit because there are fewer tourists than in June, July, and August. 

You can visit any time of the year, but just be aware that during the rainy season, you might get very wet, which won’t be very pleasant for the trip back in the car. 

Rainbow Mountain, Cusco FAQs

Now you know how to get there, we’ll provide you with some FAQs that might answer a few of the questions you have when deciding whether or not you want to visit.

How Much is the Entrance to Rainbow Mountain?

The entrance to Rainbow Mountain is 10 soles, which may or may not be included in the price of a tour if you travel that way.

How Far is Rainbow Mountain from Cusco?

The ride from the center of Cusco to the start of the trail is around 100 km (62 miles). It takes around 3 to 3 and a half hours to get there.

Is Rainbow Mountain Worth Visiting?

Yes, definitely! It’s an out-of-this-world landscape that you won’t find hardly anywhere else on the globe. You might not get another chance.

Will I Get Altitude Sickness at Rainbow Mountain?

As long as you take the hike slowly and have acclimated for 2-3 days in Cusco beforehand, you shouldn’t suffer from altitude sickness. It’s very normal to feel your heart racing a little as you ascend the final stretch, and your head might start to hurt a little. Don’t worry, though, this isn’t anything out of the ordinary.

How Did Rainbow Mountain Get Its Colors?

Over thousands of years, climate change and erosion have brought minerals and sediment to the surface that cause these different colors. These include iron sulfide, iron oxide, and magnesium. The mountain was only discovered to be colorful in recent years when the snow that covered it melted.

Do I Need Travel Insurance to Go to Rainbow Mountain?

Yes, 100%. Many companies won’t allow you to travel without it and if you do need emergency care in Cusco, the health system and treatment cost a lot. Make sure your insurance covers adventure activities.

What if I Can’t Make it to the Top?

Occasionally, hikers get tired due to exertion at high altitudes. There’s no need to worry, though, as horses are available for hire in this case and can take you a majority of the way. You’ll still have to hike the last bit by yourself, but this takes away a lot of the hiking needed.

Do I Need a Guide to Visit Rainbow Mountain?

It’s not a necessity but we do recommend it. This way, you’ll learn all about the area and the mountain itself as well as be in safe hands in case of an emergency.

What’s the Temperature Like at Rainbow Mountain?

Due to the high altitude and being so close to the snowy peak of Ausangate Mountain, the temperatures are chilly. Once you begin walking, you’ll warm-up, but you’ll soon start feeling the cold when you’re standing at the top.

Request Further Information. Get more. Do more.

If you have questions and doubts about this private Cusco City Tour, take your time in telling us your inquiries and we’ll show you a lot more options to do.

Just email us at:

[email protected]

Or WhatsApp us to:

+51 965154772 (Fredy, the guy responsible of answering your emails and inquiries at headquarter)

How to book

1. You can get it fully booked by paying an Initial Amount via PayPal and the Total Balance must be paid in USD or PEN cash at the end of tour, then this is how you’ll get your Tour Confirmation from us.
2. After we receive your “Booking Request”, we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link and the exact first amount to be paid.
3. Additional information and requirements will be detailed on the email (or via WhatsApp).

After we receive your email we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link.

The exact amount and additional requirements will be sent to you later.

Now please, start by filling the Booking Form below.

7. Rainbow Mountain to Puno

Rome2rio makes travelling from Departure Rainbow Mountain to Puno easy.

Rome2rio is a door-to-door travel information and booking engine, helping you get to and from any location in the world. Find all the transport options for your trip from Departure Rainbow Mountain to Puno right here. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed decision about which option will suit you best. Rome2rio also offers online bookings for selected operators, making reservations easy and straightforward.

Rainbow Mountain Trek ENDING in Puno

8This tour takes in the Rainbow Mountain trek, explores the Raqchi Inca Ruins, and then drops off the trekkers in Puno City. It is a great option for those that want to continue their travels in Peru in Puno or are on their way to La Paz or Arequipa.

There are connections in Puno for both.

Schedule for this uniquely designed tour!

Pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 4am in our private van Drive for 3 hours through the south valley of Cusco to the trailhead. 

By 7am our chef will cook you a hot breakfast, enjoy your breakfast with the amazing views

The trek takes about 1.5 hours along a trail winds through a desert valley with views of glaciers.

By 9am, you arrive at Rainbow Mountain, enjoy the views and take lots of pictures.

After summiting, there is an optional 45 minute hike to take in the views of the Red Valley.

By 11am, enjoy your fresh cooked lunch prepared by professional chefs.

By noon, you travel in our private van to Raqchi Inca City and take time to explore it

Finally we drive to Puno City for about 4 hours.

By 6pm, you should arrive to Puno and you will be dropped off at your hotel.

ITINERARY FOR ADVENTURE DAY

CUSCO – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN – RAQCHI – PUNO

Pick up from your hotel at 4am, and you begin your amazing Rainbow Mountain Trek Adventure. We set out on a drive for 3 hours through the South Valley; ending up at the trailhead at Llacto (4,638m/15,216 ft). Along the way, there are amazing views of Inca terraces, traditional villages, valleys and high Andean peaks.

The herds of alpacas and llamas nearby will entertain you as you eat your breakfast. At he trailhead, we start on our hike following a lovely mountain stream. 

As you hike, you will have views of the Ausangate Mountain and its glaciers. You can interact with the local people, who are still keeping traditional Quechua culture alive. Learn about their traditional clothes and the significance of the different hats worn by the men and women. Ask your guide to teach you a few words of Quechua!

After a total hike of 1.5 hours, we finally reach our destination: the Rainbow Mountain (5,020m /16,466ft). After admiring the unique beauty, you will have time to explore the area. You can take pictures or just soak up the view. We spend approximately 30 minutes at the top. Afterwards, there is an optional hike across to the top of the Red Valley. This walk takes about 45 minutes roundtrip to get back to the trailhead.

At this point, we hike back down the way we came. The hike down the mountain takes about 1 hour.

From there we embark on the 1.5 hour drive to Raqchi, and take time to explore this unique and amazing Inca city.

Finally we drive to Puno for about 4 hours, and dropping everyone off at their hotels by by 6pm

Meals included: Lunch

Difficulty: moderate to challenging

What time of year is the best time to do the Rainbow Mountain trek?

The best season to hike the Rainbow Mountain is the dry season, which is from April to September every year. During Cusco’s dry season it’s less likely to rain.

Most days are beautiful sunny weather. Only occasionally there is a cloudy day or a very brief afternoon shower. The peak tourism season in Cusco is between the months of May and September, which is due to the weather and summer vacation for those in the northern hemisphere.

****Note: A horse can be hired for the majority of the trek. However, the last 600m are too steep for horses and you will have to walk this last part.

This unique tour is offered by SAM Travel Peru.

Request Further Information. Get more. Do more.

If you have questions and doubts about this private Cusco City Tour, take your time in telling us your inquiries and we’ll show you a lot more options to do.

Just email us at:

[email protected]

Or WhatsApp us to:

+51 965154772 (Fredy, the guy responsible of answering your emails and inquiries at headquarter)

How to book

1. You can get it fully booked by paying an Initial Amount via PayPal and the Total Balance must be paid in USD or PEN cash at the end of tour, then this is how you’ll get your Tour Confirmation from us.
2. After we receive your “Booking Request”, we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link and the exact first amount to be paid.
3. Additional information and requirements will be detailed on the email (or via WhatsApp).

After we receive your email we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link.

The exact amount and additional requirements will be sent to you later.

Now please, start by filling the Booking Form below.

8. Cusco to Puno Tour

Route of the Sun, Tour from Cusco to Puno by Bus

Full Day Tour

ACTIVITIES: Sightseeing Tour

LENGTH: One Day

MAX. ALTITUDE: 4,335 mts

LOCATION: Cusco, Puno

Overview

This tour offers you an excursion aboard a comfortable bus, and includes visits to the most important attracions in Cusco and Puno. You will get to see the town of Andahuaylillas and its beautiful colonial church. We will see the ruins of Raqchi, the museum of Pucara, and other important sites.

See our Travellers’ testimonials for inspiration on your next adventure in Peru.

At a Glance

Route of the Sun, Tour from Cusco to Puno by Bus

07:00 – 07:15 We will pick you up from your hotel and head to the bus station.

07:30 – 08:15 We will take a bus from cusco to Andahuaylillas.

08:15 – 08:45 We will visit the church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas.

08:50 – 10:40 Bus to Raqchi.

10:45 – 11:20 Guided tour of the Inca temple at Raqchi.

11:25 – 12:30 Bus to Sicuani.

12:30 – 14:00 Buffet lunch in a local restraunt.

14:05 – 14:40 Bus trip to La Raya.

14:40 – 14:50 We will stop in La Raya to take picture of snow covered mountains.

This is the highest point between Cusco and Puno.

14:50 – 15:40 We will take a bus to Pucara.

15:40 – 16:20 Guided tour of the town and the museum in Pucara.

16:20 – 17:00 We will go by bus to Puno.

Attractions Included in this tour:

Andahuaylillas

Raqchi

La Raya Pass

Juliaca

Pucara

DETAILED ITINERARY

1 Full Day Tour of the Route of the Sun (Cusco – Puno)

Our staff will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at around 7:00 am to take you to our bus and start the tour from Cusco to Puno. We will visit the following attractions:

Church of Andahuaylillas. Known as the ”Sistine Chapel of the Americas”. It is a colonial building with a simple appearance. The reason that it is an important site because of the artwork found inside. Many origional colonial era works of art of great value are kept inside the church.

Archaelogical group of Raqchi. A temple built for the god Wiracocha, it is an enormous rectangular two-story structure that measures 92 metres long (300 ft) and 25.5 metres wide (84 ft). This structure consists of a central adobe wall that is 18 to 20 m high.

The temple of Raqchi is flanked on each side by a row of eleven columns. The structure inclued a place to store food, and living spaces.

Lunch in Sicuani. Sicuani is a relatively large highland town. The town is a major intersection, with the road to Puno/Arequipa passing through. This town is surrounded by some very pretty hills. You will have an exquisite lunch in our exclusive local restaurant with a family atmosphere.

La Raya Pass. At this beautiful pass, located at 4310m – 14172 ft, we have the chance to get out and breathe the pure fresh air and take pictures of grazing llamas and alpacas.

Pukara Church and Museum. Pukara is a small town located 106 km from Puno.

This is where the famous ”toritos de pukara” are made. These are hung on the doors of houses for good luck. The Pukara Culture was a very important culture in pre-Inca times. They had knowledge of engineering, and architecture. We will visit the local museum, and continue to Puno. We will arrive in Puno at about 5 p.m. We will take you to your hotel in Puno.

What’s included?

INCLUDED

• Professional English speaking Tour Guide.
• All Transfers from and to your hotel.
• Tourist transportation with basic toilet facilities on board.
• Entrance tickets to all places of visit.
• Lunch at a tourist restaurant in Juliaca.

NOT INCLUDED

• Meals not mentioned in the package.
• Tips or extra expenses.

What to bring?

Clothes

Rain poncho, waterproof jacket, T-shirts, Woolen cap, sun hat, ear muffs, Trousers, shorts, swimsuit, Underwear, socks, Gloves, scarf,  Sneakers, trekking shoes, sandals.

Health and Care

Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repelent, sun hat, Small towel, Bottled  water, Personal medication.

Useful Items

Passport, Cash in soles, Camera, charging cord, Extra batteries.

Request Further Information. Get more. Do more.

If you have questions and doubts about this private Cusco City Tour, take your time in telling us your inquiries and we’ll show you a lot more options to do.

Just email us at:

[email protected]

Or WhatsApp us to:

+51 965154772 (Fredy, the guy responsible of answering your emails and inquiries at headquarter)

How to book

1. You can get it fully booked by paying an Initial Amount via PayPal and the Total Balance must be paid in USD or PEN cash at the end of tour, then this is how you’ll get your Tour Confirmation from us.
2. After we receive your “Booking Request”, we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link and the exact first amount to be paid.
3. Additional information and requirements will be detailed on the email (or via WhatsApp).

After we receive your email we'll back to you as soon as possible with the PayPal link.

The exact amount and additional requirements will be sent to you later.

Now please, start by filling the Booking Form below.