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Cuzco, Cusco to Puno, Puno from $52: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cuzco, Peru
to
Puno, Peru

How to Get from Cuzco to Puno: 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 - TourBest price
343.2 kmDistance
4h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cuzco to Puno 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
$30-240
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
10h  10m
Estimated price
$52-52
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 343.2 km
Duration: 4h 42m

See more options

Company
Inka Express
Drive
Average Duration
10h  10m
Estimated price
$52-52
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  48m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  13m
Estimated price
$64-271
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  59m
Estimated price
$101-352
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  42m
Estimated price
$120-527
Company
PeruRail
Train
Average Duration
10h  30m
Estimated price
$140-280
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cusco to Puno

The journey between Cusco and Puno offers travelers a shift from the vibrant Incan history of Cusco to the serene beauty of Lake Titicaca in Puno, providing a rich contrast of cultural experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Puno

Puno features vibrant neighborhoods that cater to various traveler interests.

Centro Histórico
• Rich in colonial architecture and local markets.
• Close to major attractions like Plaza de Armas.
Juliaca
• Bustling atmosphere with local shops and eateries.
• Gateway to Lake Titicaca and surrounding areas.
Chucuito
• Known for Inca ruins and stunning landscapes.
• Offers a quieter, authentic Peruvian experience.

Best Times To Visit Puno's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Puno.

Lake Titicaca
Visit early in the morning for serene views and fewer boats.
Uros Floating Islands
Afternoons are best for local activity, but mornings avoid crowds.
Plaza de Armas
Explore weekday mornings for a more tranquil atmosphere and fewer tourists.

Puno Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Puno experiences a high-altitude climate with cool temperatures, especially at night, and a rainy season from December to March. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October, as clearer skies enhance your enjoyment of the stunning landscapes and cultural sites.

Dining Recommendation in Puno

Try the iconic dish called 'trucha a la parrilla' (grilled trout), often served fresh from Lake Titicaca, showcasing Puno's focus on local ingredients. Unlike Cusco's heartier Andean offerings, dining in Puno brings a lighter, lake-inspired flair paired with a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to savor every bite.

Cuzco - Puno operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cuzco and Puno, 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 Cusco Real Inka Car to Puno

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

Bus from Cusco to Puno

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
$13-13
Contact phone
(+591) 2-2283842
Website
https://www.ticketsbolivia.com/company/nc_internacional.php

Bus from Cusco to Puno

Average Duration
8h 56m
Estimated price
$24-28
Contact phone
+51 978 183 699
Website
https://facebook.com

Bus from Cusco to Puno

Average Duration
10h 15m
Estimated price
$38-38
Contact phone
+56 58 222 8547
Website
https://trans-salvador.com

Bus from Terminal Terrestre de Cusco to Terminal Terrestre Puno

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$21-45
Contact phone
+51 84 245 171
Website
http://turismomer.com

Bus from Terminal Terrestre Cusco to Terminal Terrestre Puno

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$18-65
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+51 1625 4848
Website
https://www.perurail.com/

Train from Cusco - Wanchaq to Puno

Average Duration
10h 30m
Estimated price
$140-280
Plane Show flights
Website
http://latam.com

Plane from Anta (ATA) to Juliaca (JUL)

Average Duration
4h 31m
Estimated price
$90-490

Plane from Cuzco (CUZ) to Juliaca (JUL)

Average Duration
4h 22m
Estimated price
$100-380
Taxi
Contact phone
+51 51 332-020
Website
https://facebook.com

Taxi from Juliaca to Puno

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$11-14
Shuttle
Contact phone
+51 84 634838
Website
http://inkaexpressbus.com

Shuttle from Cusco to Puno

Average Duration
10h 10m
Estimated price
$52-52

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

Traveling between Cuzco and Puno 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 journey from Cusco to Puno by car, spanning 241 miles of breathtaking Peruvian landscapes. Enjoy a drive of approximately 5 hours and 48 minutes, immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of the Andes. 💰 Experience the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $55 to $85 for your road trip adventure from Cusco to Puno. Choose a comfortable and affordable ride that suits your budget and travel preferences, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey between these two charming Peruvian cities.
Average price
$55 - $85
🌄 Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Andean mountains and traditional villages during the 10-hour and 30-minute train ride. With services available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy this unforgettable experience twice a week. 💰 Tickets for the Cusco to Puno train range from $140 to $280, providing travelers with a comfortable and convenient transportation option. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this train journey offers a delightful way to explore the heart of Peru.
Departure Point
Cusco - Wanchaq station
Arrival Point
Puno station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the train trip from Cusco to Puno include catering options typically provided by the Inca Rail and PeruRail operators. Inca Rail offers snack boxes with local Peruvian fare along with beverage service, while PeruRail provides a more comprehensive dining experience with a full meal service in their First Class and Business Class offerings, featuring options like alpaca steak and Peruvian desserts.
• When choosing your seating, note that Inca Rail and PeruRail offer multiple classes. Inca Rail has First Class, Business Class, and Executive options. The Executive Class features wide seats with panoramic views, while the Business Class offers comfortable seating and complimentary snacks. PeruRail provides Lujo (Luxury), First Class, and Business Class; each class offers progressively more spacious seating and enhanced services such as gourmet meals and complimentary beverages in higher classes.
• To travel from the Puno train station to the city center, you can take a taxi, which is the fastest option at around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, the local bus route to the city center (usually identifiable as 'Centro') is available; however, it may take longer due to stops. Note that taxis are readily available outside the station, and it’s advisable to negotiate or confirm the fare beforehand.
🛫 Flying from Cusco's Anta Airport to Puno's Juliaca Airport requires a connecting flight due to the lack of direct routes. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes with one layover.
Departure Point
Anta Airport
Arrival Point
Juliaca Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 25m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Expect a scenic flight with stunning views of the Andes; keep your camera ready during your connections, as the stopover can provide a unique vantage point of the breathtaking landscape.
• Upon arriving at Juliaca Airport, expect a bustling atmosphere; to navigate efficiently, follow the signs for baggage claim and customs, and use the official taxi stand located outside the terminal to ensure your safety and fare transparency.
• A taxi from Juliaca Airport to the center of Puno typically costs between 60 to 80 PEN; to save time, you can book a taxi through local services like Taxi Juliaca (taxijuliaca.com) or inquire at your hotel for transportation options.
🚌 Experience a scenic journey from Cusco to Puno by bus with direct services departing three times a day. The trip, lasting approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes, operates daily for your convenience. 💰 Prices for the bus ride between Cusco and Puno range from $30 to $240, providing options to suit different budgets. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Peru during this picturesque overland journey.
Departure Point
Cusco Real Inka Car station
Arrival Point
Puno station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket in advance online at Real Inka's official website (realinka.com.pe) as well as other operators like Cruz del Sur (cruzdelsur.com.pe) and Oltursa (oltursa.pe), especially during peak season, to secure your seat and avoid long queues at the station.
• Carry some snacks and water for the ride, but also plan to enjoy a traditional snack at a rest stop along the way, as the buses often have designated breaks where local vendors sell delicious options like tamales and empanadas.
• Upon arriving at Puno station, be prepared for the hustle of taxi drivers offering rides; it's advisable to have your accommodation address ready and consider using a reputable taxi service like Taxi Sitio 123 or Global Taxi to ensure a smooth trip to your final destination.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cuzco to Puno.

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The cheapest way to travel from Cusco to Puno is by bus. You can take a bus from Cusco to Juliaca, and then transfer to another bus to reach Puno. The bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes and can cost anywhere between $6 to $22, depending on the class of bus chosen. This option allows you to enjoy the scenic landscapes and save money on transportation.
The fastest way to travel from Cusco to Puno is by driving. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 48 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The cost of renting a car or hiring a private driver for this route ranges from $55 to $85. It is recommended to check the road conditions before embarking on this journey and to ensure you have proper navigation or a map to guide you along the way.
The distance between Cusco and Puno is approximately 208 miles. If you prefer to travel by road, the distance is about 241.3 miles. The journey can take between 6 to 10 hours depending on the mode of transportation and the route taken. It is important to keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
The best way to travel from Cusco to Puno without a car is by bus. It is a convenient and affordable option, with several bus companies operating this route. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes, and ticket prices range from $30 to $240, depending on the class of service and amenities provided by the bus operator. Buses are a popular choice among travelers due to their comfort, scenic views along the way, and frequent departures throughout the day.
The journey from Cusco to Puno by bus takes approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes. This includes any necessary transfers. There is one daily departure from Cusco Real Inka Car bus station. It is recommended to check the schedule in advance and arrive at the bus station a little early to ensure a smooth travel experience.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Puno. With over 174 hotels available, travelers can choose from a wide range of choices. Prices start at $28 per night, providing affordable options for all budgets. Some popular hotels in Puno include Casa Andina Premium Puno and Hotel Taypikala Lago. With such a variety of options, visitors can find the perfect place to stay during their time in Puno.
Yes, you can drive from Cusco to Puno. The distance between the two cities is 241 miles, and the drive takes approximately 5 hours and 48 minutes. It's important to note that the roads in Peru can be challenging, with winding mountainous routes, so it's advisable to be an experienced and confident driver before attempting the journey. Additionally, make sure to have a valid driver's license, proper documentation for the vehicle, and be aware of local traffic regulations and road conditions.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Cusco and Puno. The bus departs from Cusco Real Inka Car and arrives at Puno. The service operates once daily and runs every day. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes.
You can catch the Cusco to Puno bus from the Real Inka Car station in Cusco. Real Inka is one of the bus operators that provides this service. The station is located in Cusco and is easily accessible by public transportation or taxis. Make sure to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time of the bus to ensure a smooth journey to Puno.
The Cusco to Puno bus services, operated by Real Inka, arrive at Puno station. This station is located in the city of Puno in southeastern Peru. It serves as the main transportation hub for travelers arriving from Cusco. From there, you can easily access the various attractions and accommodations in Puno.
To get to Puno from Cusco Airport, the best option is to take a shuttle. The shuttle ride takes approximately 12 minutes and costs between $15 and $40. It is a convenient and relatively quick way to reach Puno from the airport. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer, although these options may be more expensive.
Sky Airline, JetSMART, and LATAM Chile are the airlines that offer flights between Cusco and Puno. The flights operate from Cuzco Airport to Juliaca Airport. These airlines provide convenient options for travelers who prefer to reach Puno by air rather than by bus or other means of transportation. It is recommended to check the airline schedules and compare prices to choose the most suitable flight for your travel needs.
The fastest way to get from Cusco to Puno is by taking a flight from Cuzco Airport to Juliaca Airport. However, there are no direct flights available, so you would have to make a stopover. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. Airlines such as Sky Airline, JetSMART, and LATAM Chile offer flights from Cuzco Airport to Juliaca Airport.
The flight from Cusco to Puno is not a direct route and requires a layover. The quickest flight option takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes, with one stopover. It is important to note that Puno does not have its own airport, so travelers usually fly to Juliaca Airport, which is the closest airport to Puno. From Juliaca, it is then possible to take a bus or arrange other means of transportation to reach Puno.
Trains from Cusco to Puno arrive at Puno station. This is the final destination for the train journey. Puno station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy for travelers to access their accommodation or explore the local area upon arrival. PeruRail operates this train route, offering a comfortable and scenic journey between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cusco and Puno. The train departs from Cusco - Wanchaq station and arrives in Puno. It operates four times a week on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 18 minutes. Please note that schedules and availability may vary, so it's recommended to check for updated information before planning your trip.
You can catch the Cusco to Puno train at the Cusco - Wanchaq station. This station is located in Cusco. PeruRail operates the train services between these two cities. Make sure to check the train schedule and arrive at the station on time to catch your train to Puno.
The cost of a train from Cusco to Puno can range from $140 to $280. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the type of train and class chosen. It is recommended to check with different train companies for their specific prices and any discounts or promotions that may be available.
The cost of a bus from Cusco to Puno can range from $30 to $240, depending on the type of bus and the level of service. The prices typically vary based on factors such as the departure time, the duration of the journey, and the amenities provided on board. It is recommended to compare prices from different bus companies and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The cost to drive from Cusco to Puno ranges from $55 to $85. This price may depend on various factors such as the type of car, fuel prices, and any additional charges for tolls or parking. It is important to note that these costs are estimates and can vary depending on the specific circumstances and preferences of the traveler. Additionally, it is recommended to check road conditions and plan for any potential stops or rest breaks along the approximately 390-kilometer journey.