How to get from Cusco to Puno, Peru (4 Best Ways)

You can get from Cusco to Puno by bus, train, private transfer, or rental car.

The cheapest option 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 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 use local transport best.

In this article, I share these insights to help you move around the country efficiently and easily from Cusco to Puno, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler!

Transportation Options

1. Bus

Journey Duration: 6.5-10 hours

When taking a bus, 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.

VIP Bus Schedule

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

130 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

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

140 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

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

160 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

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

180 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule

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

Sleeping Bus Schedule

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
10:30pm	05:30am	7h	$42
10:00pm	05:00am	7h	$23
10:00pm	05:00am	7h	$26

Tourist Bus Schedule

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

Journey Duration: 10 hours 20 minutes

The best option for those who prefer traveling in style is taking the luxury train!

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!

Luxury Train Schedule

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
07:10am	05:10 PM	10h	$294

3. Private Transfer

Journey Duration: 6 hours 50 minutes

You can also choose to experience the 386-kilometer journey 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:

• 1-2 passengers (SUV Car): USD 274
• 1-4 passengers (Standard Minivan): USD 312
• 1-12 passengers (Standard Minivan): USD 497

4. Rental Car

Journey Duration: 6 hours 50 minutes

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions