Puno is well connected with Cusco. You can get from Cusco to Puno by bus, train, private transfer, or rental car.
There is no doubt that if you visit Lake Titicaca, Puno must be the place to go!
Puno is a city full of joy and color that offers a great way to escape the crowds of Peruvian cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa.
Best VPN for Travel: ExpressVPN
Heading abroad? Use ExpressVPN to access your social media accounts, unblock your favorite entertainment sites, and stay connected with friends and family. And get cheaper flights, of course.
Pros
✅ Next-gen, high-speed servers in 94 countries
✅ Works on iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux, browsers, and more
✅ 256-bit AES encryption protects your data, even on hotel Wi-Fi
✅ Unblocks Netflix and other streaming sites
Cons
❎ No dedicated IPs
Get 3 extra months free of ExpressVPN when signing up for a 1-year plan. That’s a 49% saving and a monthly cost of just $6.67! You also get a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Puno is situated on the western shore of Lake Titicaca, located in southern Peru, on the high, cold Collao Plateau.
Many Andean tribes lived in this town in the past and practiced their handicrafts and traditions. Despite this, Puno is now home to one of Peru’s most popular tourist attractions, offering a unique fusion of modernity and Andean traditions.
However, Puno is a place that still keeps to its traditions and local flavor; and a town where the locals take pride in their livelihood. Therefore, it has still not lost its charm!
A visit to this colorful city will make you want to return because of the friendly people and colorful scenery. The ancient ruins, modern conveniences, stunning natural landscapes, and lovely people make Puno an ideal vacation destination!
Whether you want to explore the Floating Islands, hang out with some llamas, sheep, or alpacas, or go shopping for traditional goods in Puno’s markets, this charming lake town is definitely worth your time!
Traveling between Cusco and Puno is easy, and you can choose between a bus, train, private transfer, and rental car!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Cusco to Puno.
Tip: Read here everything you need to know about how to get around in Peru.
How far is Puno from Cusco?
The distance from Cusco to Puno is 240.2 miles or 386.6 kilometers.
Transportation Options from Cusco to Puno
The following table outlines all transportation options from Cusco to Puno:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus from Cusco to Puno | 6.5-10 hours | USD 14-USD 48 |
| Private Transfer from Cusco to Puno | 6 hours 50 minutes | USD 236- USD 427 |
| Luxury Train from Cusco to Puno | 10 hours 20 minutes | USD 250 |
| Rental Car | 6 hours 50 minutes | – |
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 standard bus ticket is USD 14, or you can spend more money on the more expensive options, which cost up to USD 48.
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
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:45 AM | 04:15 PM | 7 hours 30 minutes | USD 14 |  |
| 10:15 PM | 05:45 AM | 7 hours 30 minutes | USD 14 | |
Cusco to Puno 140 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 PM | 04:30 AM | 6 hours 30 minutes | USD 15 | |
Cusco to Puno 160 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:30 AM | 02:00 PM | 7 hours 30 minutes | USD 14 | |
| 07:30 PM | 03:00 AM | 7 hours 30 minutes | USD 14 | |
| 09:40 PM | 05:10 AM | 7 hours 30 minutes | USD 14 | |
| 09:45 PM | 05:00 AM | 7 hours 15 minutes | USD 15 | |
| 10:00 PM | 04:30 AM | 6 hours 30 minutes | USD 20 | |
Cusco to Puno Tourist Bus Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:30 PM | 05:30 AM | 8 hours | USD 22 | |
Cusco to Puno Day Tours Bus Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 AM | 05:00 PM | 10 hours | USD 48 | |
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 250 and takes approximately 10 hours and 20 minutes 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
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07:50 AM | 06:10 PM | 10 hours 20 minutes | USD 250 | |
Bookaway
On Bookaway, you can check all available transportation options from Cusco to Puno. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform for comparing prices & schedules and making a booking online.
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 236
- 1-4 passengers (Standard Minivan): USD 268
- 1-12 passengers (Standard Minivan): USD 427
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.
The following widget shows 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 14!
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.
