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Puno to Cusco from $52: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Puno, Peru
to
Cusco, Peru

How to Get from Puno to Cusco: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$52 ShuttleBest price
394 kmDistance
5h 10m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Puno to Cusco with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
7h  40m
Estimated price
$60-240
Recommended
Company
Inka Express
Drive
Average Duration
10h  10m
Estimated price
$52-52
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 394 km
Duration: 5h 10m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
8h  13m
Estimated price
$65-269
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$101-353
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
15h  33m
Estimated price
$119-515
Company
PeruRail
Train
Average Duration
10h  20m
Estimated price
$140-280
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Puno to Cusco

The journey from Puno to Cusco showcases a striking contrast between the tranquil shores of Lake Titicaca and the vibrant cultural tapestry of Cusco's lively streets.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cusco

Cusco boasts vibrant neighborhoods that reflect its rich history and culture.

San Blas
• Known for its artistic atmosphere and local artisans.
• Offers stunning views of the city and charming narrow streets.
Centro Histórico
• Home to iconic landmarks like Plaza de Armas.
• Bustling with restaurants, shops, and local markets.
Santo Domingo
• Features the impressive Qorikancha temple ruins.
• A hub for cultural events and traditional music.

Best Times To Visit Cusco's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Cusco.

Machu Picchu
Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer tourists and stunning light.
Qorikancha
Weekdays typically have lighter crowds, allowing for a more serene visit.
Sacsayhuamán
Visit during the early hours for cooler weather and fewer visitors.

Cusco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cusco enjoys a mild climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, with the dry period from May to September being the ideal time for travelers. Understanding the weather helps you prepare for the elevation and plan activities, ensuring a more enjoyable visit.

Dining Recommendation in Cusco

Consider indulging in a hearty plate of cuy chactado at Chicha, a restaurant by renowned chef Gastón Acurio, where the crispy fried guinea pig is a culinary highlight. This dish, rich in flavor and local heritage, contrasts with Puno's traditional fish dishes, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a modern take on authentic Peruvian ingredients.

Puno - Cusco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Puno and Cusco, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+51993063390
Website
https://realinkacar.com/

Bus from Puno to Cusco Real Inka Car

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
$170-240
Contact phone
(051) 3675617
Website
https://ticketsbolivia.com

Bus from Puno to Cusco

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
$13-13
Contact phone
+51 84 238223
Website
http://redbus.pe

Bus from Puno to Cusco

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$13-21
Contact phone
+51 978 183 699
Website
https://facebook.com

Bus from Puno to Cusco

Average Duration
10h 15m
Estimated price
$38-38
Contact phone
+51 84 245 171
Website
https://turismomer.com

Bus from Terminal Terrestre Puno to Terminal Terrestre Cusco

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$18-65
Contact phone
+591 2 228 1920
Website
http://litoral-miramar.com

Bus from Puno to Cusco

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$13-35
Website
https://facebook.com

Bus from Puno to Cusco

Average Duration
8h 57m
Estimated price
$24-28
Contact phone
+51 971 569 997
Website
https://machupicchu-tours-peru.com

Bus from Puno to Cusco

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$60-60
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+51 1625 4848
Website
https://www.perurail.com/

Train from Puno to Cusco - Wanchaq

Average Duration
10h 20m
Estimated price
$140-280
Plane Show flights
Website
http://latam.com

Plane from Juliaca (JUL) to Cuzco (CUZ)

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$100-380
Website
http://skyairline.com

Plane from Juliaca (JUL) to Cuzco (CUZ)

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$75-310
Website
http://jetsmart.com

Plane from Arequipa (AQP) to Cuzco (CUZ)

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$35-200

Puno to Cusco: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Puno and Cusco offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Puno to Cusco, spanning 389.5 km through the breathtaking Peruvian landscapes. The journey offers an immersive experience with approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes of driving time. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $55 to $85 for the trip by car from Puno to Cusco. 🏞️ Traverse the Andean terrain, passing picturesque towns and stunning vistas as you make your way from Puno to Cusco. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Peru, making stops along the way to truly appreciate the beauty of the journey.
Average price
$55 - $85
🚞 Embark on a picturesque journey by train from Puno to Cusco. The direct train service, operated by PeruRail, departs four times a week and takes approximately 10 hours and 20 minutes to reach the historic city of Cusco. 🏞️ Enjoy stunning views of the Andean landscapes as you travel through the Peruvian highlands. The comfortable train ride offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the region while making your way towards the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. 💰 Ticket prices for the Puno to Cusco train range from $140 to $280, providing travelers with flexible options to suit their budget.
Departure Point
Puno station
Arrival Point
Cusco - Wanchaq station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services are well catered for the Puno to Cusco journey. Depending on the operator, you may find meal services including traditional Peruvian dishes, snack bars, or refreshments. For example, the Inca Rail offers a dining car with complimentary meals and a bar service, while PeruRail has a snack service that includes beverages and light snacks available for purchase.
• The train journey has different seating options. Inca Rail offers three classes: Executive Class, First Class, and Tourist Class. Executive Class features spacious seating with gourmet meals included. PeruRail also provides multiple classes, including the luxurious Belmond Andean Explorer, which has a sophisticated lounge area and dining experience, as well as VistaDome and Expedition classes, which focus on comfort with panoramic windows to enjoy the scenic views.
• The main operators for the train journey from Puno to Cusco are PeruRail (perurail.com) and Inca Rail (incarail.com). Make sure to check their websites for availability, schedules, and bookings. Additionally, local transport schedules can be found on the Cusco public transport website, and station maps can be accessed upon arrival for easier navigation.
✈️ The quickest option for this journey is a flight with one stopover, which typically takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes to reach Cusco Airport from Juliaca Airport.
Departure Point
Juliaca Airport
Arrival Point
Cuzco Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 40m and has one stopover
🚌 Experience a comfortable journey from Puno to Cusco by bus with services departing four times a day 🌄. The trip lasts approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenic views along the way 🏔️. 💰 Ticket prices for the Puno to Cusco bus range from $60 to $240, offering different options to suit your budget and comfort preferences 💵. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you make your way from the shores of Lake Titicaca to the historic city of Cusco 🌎.
Departure Point
Puno station
Arrival Point
Cusco Real Inka Car station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance through operators like Real Inka, which offers reliable services between Puno and Cusco, or consider others such as Cruz del Sur and Oltursa for different pricing and comfort levels; you can find their schedules and book online at Real Inka, Cruz del Sur, and Oltursa.
• During the trip, enjoy the scenic views of the Andean mountains and stop at interesting viewpoints along the way; ask the bus staff about the rest stops as some buses offer snacks for purchase and you may want to bring some additional snacks and water for the journey.
• Upon arrival at Cusco Real Inka Car station, note that it can be busy; be sure to have your accommodations pre-booked; taxis and transport services are readily available outside the station, but you should agree on fares in advance or use ride-hailing apps like Uber for convenience.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Puno to Cusco.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Puno and Cusco is approximately 334.7 km. If you choose to drive, it will take around 6 hours and 46 minutes to reach Cusco from Puno by taking a bus to Juliaca and then flying. However, if you prefer to travel by train, it will take approximately 10 hours and 20 minutes. Additionally, it takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes to drive from Puno to Cusco, while taking a bus will take around 7 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Puno to Cusco is by bus via Juliaca. It costs between $5 and $22 and takes approximately 9 hours and 4 minutes. If time is of the essence, the quickest option is to drive, which takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes and costs between $55 and $85.
The prices for a train journey between Puno and Cusco range from $140 to $280. Similarly, the prices for a bus trip between Cusco and Puno vary between $60 and $240.
To get from Puno to Cusco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 389.5 km. The journey takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes. The prices for car rentals vary but can range from $55 to $85.
The best way to travel from Puno to Cusco without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes and can cost anywhere between $60 and $240.
Yes, there is a direct link between Puno and Cusco. You can take a train that departs four times a week and takes approximately 10 hours and 20 minutes to reach Cusco. Additionally, there is a direct bus that operates daily and has a travel time of around 7 hours and 40 minutes.
The flight between Puno and Cusco typically takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight from Juliaca Airport to Cusco Airport, so passengers will have to factor in the additional time for the layover. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of year, and availability, but on average, it can range from $100 to $300 USD.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Cusco with over 1056 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $20 per night, making it feasible for various budgets.

Trips from Puno