You can get from Cusco to Puno by bus, train, private transfer, or rental car.
The cheapest option to travel from Cusco to Puno is by bus, which costs only USD 12. The journey takes between 6.5 and 10.5 hours.
The most popular option is also the bus, offering a convenient and affordable transportation alternative!
The fastest way to travel to Puno from Cusco is by 140 Reclining Seats Bus, which takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes.
Having traveled throughout Peru, from the coastal cities to the highland towns, I’ve learned how to best use local transport. In this article, I’m sharing these insights to help you move around the country efficiently, and get from Cusco to Puno easily, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Cusco to Puno.
Transportation Options from Cusco to Puno
The following table outlines all transportation options from Cusco to Puno:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus from Cusco to Puno | 6.5-10.5 hrs | $12 to 71 |
| Cusco to Puno Private Transfer | ~7 hrs | $274 to 497 |
| Train from Cusco to Puno | ~10.5 hrs | $294 |
| Rental Car | ~7 hrs | – |
How far is Puno from Cusco?
The distance from Cusco to Puno is 240.2 miles or 386.6 kilometers.
Getting to Puno from Cusco
1. Bus from Cusco to Puno
Journey Duration: 6.5-10 hours
With so many different transportation options available, getting from Cusco to Puno is a breeze! However, the most popular and practical tourist option is taking a bus.
When taking a bus from Cusco to Puno, you have a selection of several different buses, each with a different price.
If you don’t have much time, you can take a regular bus that will get you to Puno in about 7 hours. You can choose between a VIP, Reclining Seat, or a Tourist bus. However, to experience the magic of the “Route of the Sun,” you should take a Day Tours Bus that travels during the day and offers a fantastic experience!
The cost of the cheapest standard bus ticket is USD 12, or you can spend more money on the more expensive options, which cost up to USD 71.
Regular buses feature shared TVs, reclining seats, blankets, and phone chargers. All buses have restrooms and air conditioning; some might have water and snacks available.
On the other hand, if you take the Day Tour Bus, you’ll get to visit some incredible locations like the Wiracocha Temple of Raqchi, the Church of Andahuaylillas, Raya Pass, as well as several museums and archaeological sites! Although it is more expensive and takes about 10 hours to get there, this option is definitely worth it!
Additionally, the buses have reclining seats, restrooms, and air conditioning. You will also stop along the way for a lavish buffet lunch that is included in the cost.
Therefore, whichever option you choose, you will travel from Cusco to Puno in the utmost comfort and have a smooth and safe journey.
Secure your bus ride from Cusco to Puno by purchasing your tickets online right away!
Cusco to Puno VIP Bus Schedule
The table below displays the VIP bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Puno, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:35am | 04:05pm | 7h 30m | $21 |   |
| 10:00pm | 05:30am | 7h 30m | $21 | |
| 10:30pm | 06:00am | 7h 30m | $21 | |
Cusco to Puno 130 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule
The table below displays the 130 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Puno, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00am | 02:30pm | 7h 30m | $12 | |
| 11:45am | 07:15pm | 7h 30m | $12 | |
| 08:00pm | 03:30am | 7h 30m | $12 | |
| 10:00pm | 05:30am | 7h 30m | $12 | |
Cusco to Puno 140 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule
The table below displays the 140 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Puno, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:30am | 02:45pm | 8h 15m | $14 | |
| 10:30am | 05:45pm | 7h 15m | $14 | |
| 08:30pm | 04:00am | 7h 30m | $14 | |
| 10:00pm | 05:30am | 7h 30m | $14 | |
| 10:00pm | 04:30am | 6h 30m | $15 | |
Cusco to Puno 160 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule
The table below displays the 160 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Puno, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:30am | 02:45pm | 8h 15m | $18 | |
| 10:30am | 05:45pm | 7h 15m | $18 | |
| 08:30pm | 04:00am | 7h 30m | $18 | |
| 10:15pm | 06:00am | 7h 45m | $18 | |
| 09:45pm | 05:00am | 7h 15m | $16 | |
| 02:00pm | 10:30pm | 8h 30m | $23 | |
| 10:00pm | 05:00am | 7h | $23 | |
| 10:00pm | 05:00am | 7h | $20 | |
| 10:00pm | 05:00am | 7h | $17 | |
| 10:00pm | 04:30am | 6h 30m | $20 | |
Cusco to Puno 180 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule
The table below displays the 180 reclining seats bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Puno, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00am | 02:30pm | 7h 30m | $17 | |
| 11:45am | 07:15pm | 7h 30m | $17 | |
| 08:00pm | 03:30am | 7h 30m | $17 | |
| 10:00pm | 05:30am | 7h 30m | $17 | |
| 02:00pm | 10:30pm | 8h 30m | $29 | |
Cusco to Puno Sleeping Bus Schedule
The table below displays the sleeping bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Puno, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:30pm | 05:30am | 7h | $42 | |
| 10:00pm | 05:00am | 7h | $23 | |
| 10:00pm | 05:00am | 7h | $26 | |
Cusco to Puno Tourist Bus Schedule
The table below displays the tourist bus timetable for trips from Cusco to Puno, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:30pm | 05:30am | 8h | $22 | |
| 07:00am | 05:00pm | 10h | $70 | |
| 07:00am | 05:30pm | 10h 30m | $71 | |
| 06:50am | 05:10pm | 10h 20m | $58 | |
2. Train from Cusco to Puno
Journey Duration: 10 hours 20 minutes
The best option for those who prefer traveling in style is taking the luxury train from Cusco to Puno!
The train stops at Lake Titicaca after traveling through the magnificent Peruvian Andes. While taking in the breathtaking views, you’ll also enjoy the luxurious services offered on board.
The train has an observation car where you can enjoy the view as you travel and a bar car where you can unwind with a drink.
The cost also includes a gourmet lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea, but you can also buy extra snacks and drinks on the train. In addition, the train is well-equipped with air conditioning, restrooms, comfortable seats, and an interior.
This option costs USD 294 and takes approximately 10 hours to reach Cusco, but it provides the most amazing and luxurious experience!
Save your tickets online today, and don’t miss this journey through the Peruvian Andes!
Cusco to Puno Luxury Train Schedule
The table below displays the luxury train timetable for trips from Cusco to Puno, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:10am | 05:10 PM | 10h | $294 | |
3. Private Transfer from Cusco to Puno
Journey Duration: 6 hours 50 minutes
You can also choose to experience the 386-kilometer journey between Cusco and Puno independently by arranging a private transfer!
With a private transfer, you get the privacy and comfort of having your own vehicle and the freedom to arrange your trip completely!
Additionally, you’ll stop along the way for incredible photos and take in some breathtaking scenery during this roughly seven-hour journey.
This option is best for groups or families because the price becomes very reasonable when the cost is shared among the group.
You can select the vehicle that’s right for you from a variety of options for different groups! Prices start at USD 236 for the standard cars, but the larger the group and vehicle, the better!
Your driver will pick you up from your location in Cusco and take you directly to your hotel in Puno in no time!
Prices for a private transfer from Cusco to Puno:
- 1-2 passengers (SUV Car): USD 274
- 1-4 passengers (Standard Minivan): USD 312
- 1-12 passengers (Standard Minivan): USD 497
Do you need help arranging your transportation?
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4. Driving with Rental Car from Cusco to Puno
Journey Duration: 6 hours 50 minutes
The last option for traveling from Cusco to Puno is renting a car!
A car rental allows you to explore Puno independently and get there quickly.
It takes about 7 hours to drive between Cusco and Puno, so the road trip is much quicker than taking a bus or a train. However, consider any stops you might want to take along the way to take in the breathtaking views fully!
Additionally, car rentals in Cusco or throughout Peru are generally very affordable and well worth the cost. Therefore, this option is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to get from Cusco to Puno!
Best day tours in Puno, 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 Puno, Peru.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from Cusco to Puno?
The cheapest way to get from Cusco to Puno is by VIP Bus, which costs only USD 12!
What is the fastest way to get from Cusco to Puno?
The fastest way to get from Cusco to Puno is by 140 Reclining Seats Bus, which takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes.
How long is the train ride from Cusco to Puno?
A breathtaking train journey through the Andes from Cusco to Puno takes about 10 hours and 20 minutes.
How long is the bus ride from Cusco to Puno?
A bus trip from Cusco to Puno takes approximately 7 hours.
Where do I catch the Cusco to Puno train from?
Trains run by PeruRail from Cusco to Puno leave from the Cusco – Wanchaq station.
More routes from Cusco, Peru
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AnaMaria is a dedicated SEO specialist and content strategist with profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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Jean Nájera is the CEO of GuateGo, an online marketplace to buy transportation tickets in more than 200 cities. He has profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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