5 Best Ways to get from Cusco to Lima, Peru

You can get from Cusco to Lima by bus, private transfer, flight, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Cusco to Lima is by bus, which costs only USD 25. The journey takes about 22 hours.

The most popular option is also the bus, especially the Economy Bus, which offers the best prices!

The fastest way to travel to Lima from Cusco is by flight, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes!

As I’ve journeyed through Peru, from the bustling streets of Lima to the hidden trails of the Andes, I’ve learned the best ways to use its diverse transport options. This guide is your practical companion for making your travels from Cusco to Lima efficient and enjoyable!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Cusco to Lima.

Transportation Options from Cusco to Lima

The following table outlines all transportation options from Cusco to Lima:

Method	Time	Price
Bus from Cusco to Lima	22 hrs	$25 to 51
Cusco to Lima Private Transfer	21 hrs	–
Flight from Cusco to Lima	~2 hrs	+$43
Rental Car	21 hrs	–

How far is Lima from Cusco?

The distance from Cusco to Lima is 681.7 miles or 1097.1 kilometers.

Getting to Lima from Cusco

1. Bus from Cusco to Lima

Journey Duration: 22 hours

Bus travel is the most recommended method of transportation between Cusco and Lima!

The first portion of your bus ride between Cusco and Lima will take place in the breathtaking Peruvian Andes!

You will get to take in some stunning views before night falls. And as soon as night falls, recline in your chair and try to relax!

The buses travel overnight, so even though the trip is lengthy, it will be as comfortable as possible, thanks to their excellent amenities!

Due to the distance, taking a bus may seem inconvenient when traveling from Cusco to Lima. However, numerous bus options are available because of the well-established lines connecting the two cities.

Typically, the trip between the two cities takes 22 hours. There are economy bus options available for tourists on a tight budget that cost only USD 25, making this the cheapest traveling method. These buses typically have comfortable seats, TVs, air conditioning, and restrooms.

However, you can purchase a Reclining Seats Bus ticket if you want to be a little more comfortable on your trip from Cusco to Lima. These buses offer more room than other less expensive options, better-reclining seats, blankets, charging ports, and some snacks and drinks!

But no matter your choice, you are guaranteed a safe, comfortable, and convenient trip from Cusco to Lima.

So, check out the options and book your tickets online in advance!

Cusco to Lima 140 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

The table below displays the 140 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Lima, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
05:10pm	03:10pm	22h	$36
04:00pm	02:15pm	22h 15m	$50

Cusco to Lima 160 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

The table below displays the 160 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Lima, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
05:10pm	03:10pm	22h	$38
04:00pm	02:15pm	22h 15m	$45
04:00pm	01:15pm	21h 15m	$45
05:00pm	02:50pm	21h 15m	$49

Cusco to Lima 180 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

The table below displays the 180 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Lima, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
04:00pm	01:15pm	21h 15m	$51

Cusco to Lima Economy Bus Schedule

The table below displays the economy bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Lima, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
01:30pm	11:30am	22h	$25

2. Private Transfer from Cusco to Lima

Journey Duration: 21 hours

Booking a private transfer from Cusco to Lima is the most comfortable option if you want to avoid the almost 24-hour bus trips through Peru and travel in the most comfortable manner!

The fact that buses are reliable and competitively priced means this mode of transportation is less popular, even though you can stop wherever you want throughout the journey and arrive at your destination much faster.

This option, however, allows you to enjoy the best scenery along the way while still arriving in Lima at your own pace. And let’s not forget all the luggage space and comfort you get by having your private vehicle!

A private transfer is also a good option for groups since it lowers the overall cost per passenger once the price is split among the group. 

Your trip from Cusco to Lima can be arranged by searching for the best deal through a travel agency!

You’ll arrive in Lima in 21 hours by booking a private transfer, traveling hassle-free!

3. Flight from Cusco to Lima

Journey Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

You can also get from Cusco to Lima in under 2 hours by catching a flight if you’d rather not spend nearly 24 hours sitting on a bus!

Although it may seem very convenient to fly from Cusco to Lima, it’s important to remember that airline tickets are much more expensive than bus tickets.

The ticket cost for this flight can exceed USD 250, which is significantly more expensive than other options.

But, if saving time is your priority and you prefer luxury travel, go ahead and book your next flight from Cusco to Lima!

By catching a plane, you arrive at the Lima Airport in only 1 hour and 15 minutes, in the most comfortable way.

Availability and prices of flight change frequently, depending on the season.

So, check the schedules and book your tickets online in advance!

4. Driving with Rental Car from Cusco to Lima

Journey Duration: 21 hours

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a car from Cusco to Lima!

Traveling across the country in a rental car ensures you’ll see breathtaking scenery and have plenty of time to enjoy it to the fullest. The flexibility of having your own vehicle helps you make stops whenever and wherever you like! 

Peru’s traffic, however, is challenging to navigate for most tourists.

You may enjoy all those benefits with a rental car, but driving in Peru, especially Lima, can be a bit challenging compared to driving at home.

So, if you’re considering taking this long road trip, do your research first.

Renting a car in Peru is generally affordable, but choose a reputable and safe company!

Besides, once you rent a car, prepare for the 21-hour journey!

Best day tours in Lima, Peru

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Lima, Peru.

Frequently Asked Questions