The overland route from La Paz to Cusco is one of the most popular for Latin American tourists arriving from Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil in the months of January and February mainly. There are several ways to make this trip: directly or with stopovers in Copacabana and /or Puno, tourist sites worth knowing.
Machu Picchu, Peru
The direct trip lasts between 14 and 15 hours, depending on the company and departure time, while the trip with stopovers may vary according to the traveler’s stay at stopover points such as Puno or Copacabana.
We know that planning a long overland trip is often overwhelming, so we have compiled all the information that can help you organize and enjoy your trip to the fullest. After all, the journey itself is just as important as the destination!
Direct trip from La Paz to Cusco
Several companies offer direct service from La Paz to Cusco by bus. There are two possible routes: the one that goes through Puno and stops in Desaguadero for migration, and the one that goes through Copacabana and Puno, making migration in Yunguyo or Kasani.
The immigration procedure is simple, you only have to present your identity documents at the Bolivian window, to leave the country, as well as at the Peruvian window to enter.
Buses leave from the La Paz Bus Terminal, located between Peru and Uruguay Avenues. You can see the exact address of the terminal at this link.
For a longer but more restful trip and, above all, one that allows you to enjoy the attractions of Puno, you can make the trip from La Paz to Puno and from there to Cusco. Fleets depart from La Paz to Puno from the La Paz Bus Terminal (see map above) at 07:30, 08:00 in sleeper buses (160 degrees recline). The cost of the tickets is around 20 to 25 dollars, depending on the schedule and the company. The trip takes 7 hours and passes through the Desaguadero border.
In Puno, the buses arrive at the Terminal Terrestre de Puno located at the following address: Jr. Primero de Mayo 703.
From Puno to Cusco
Puno is a port city located at an altitude of over 3,800 meters above sea level, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, in the Altiplano of Peru. Puno is a picturesque hillside town overlooking Lake Titicaca and one of its major attractions, the floating islands of the Uros. This, and its proximity to the Bolivian border, make it a regular stop on the South American tourist route.
However you have planned your trip, nothing compares to the moment you finally reach your destination: the city of Cusco. All the buses arrive at the Bus Terminal of Cusco, located on Av. Vía de Evitamiento #429. Here is the map.
We hope the information has been useful and that you have a wonderful trip through the lands of the Incas.
In our last post, we told you about some of the ways in which traveling will change once the measures taken to control the spread of covid-19 are reversed. Today, we are back to tell you about a few more changes you can expect, so you can begin planing your first gettaway after lock-down.
Packing a suitcase will not be the same
Packing a suitcase:
The health crisis the world is going through implies that a lot of emphasis has been put on personal hygiene and dissinfection, with recomendations that people should wash and their hands several times a day and takng measures to prevent contamination. For a person who is traveling, this probably means carrying alcohol in gel or any other type of hand sanitizer, wet wipes with dissinfecting components, even latex gloves and face masks. You will probably start packing these items in your suitcase, and airlines might have to allow passengers to carry liquids on board. It is also likely that you will be packing your favorite, fashion face masks so prevention doesn´t cramp your style. Facemasks have become an essensial item, and they are on they way to becoming a fashion statement, as well.
It is also likely that thermometers and fever medicine will also become indispensable carry-on items.
2. Documentation:
It is very likely that you will need more to travel than just your visa and passport in order to go abroad. At lest for a few months after the quarantene, you may need to carry some sort of sanitary ID stating you are immune, be it because you have been vaccinates, (once there is a vaccine) or because you have recovered from the virus. In the film Contagion, there was this wristband with a code bar stating the person´s sanitary status when crossing borders. Some thing like that may be rutine in the more technologicaly advanced countries.
Hotels will offer confort and dissinfection protocols
3. Priorities when choosing a place to stay and how to travel:
When you plan your trip, you will have more than just confort and amenities in mind. Passengers and guests will want to know the health and hygiene protocols and practices of each transportation company and hotel: how often do they dissinfect the surfaces, with what chemicals, how do they control air quality, how they limit unnecesarry interaction with other guests and passengers. And this is exactly what service providers will begin to advertise to get more people to book with their company. For example, it is likely that companies such as Airbnb will see a fall in their reservations, as people choose to stay in hotels with established and standardized health and sanitary protocols.
4. Flexibilization of tickets:
The current health crisis caused many sudden borders closing and trips and flights being cancelled. When these measures let up in the future, it is likelly that transportation companies will be more flexible with the cancellation and change of tickets. This, in the understanding that there could be new surges in some countries, which could lead again to the sudden cancellation of trips and closing of borders. It may also be that passengers are less willing to make a trip if they have cold simptoms, even if it is not covid-19, and may prefer to change the date of the trip or cancell (traveling with cold will not be socially acceptable for some time).
Thus, you will want to know the cancellation and change policies of every company before booking. When you buy your bus or train tickets online to travel around South America, for example, with Tickets Bolivia, you can cancel your tickets for a refund with 48 hours anticipation. You can also change the date or leave the date of the trip pending for an entire year at no extra cost.
Facemask as fashion statement
At Tickets Bolivia, we will work with transportation companies so they meet all standards, and will inform our clients about the quality of their services. Our commitment is to provide all the information our clients need when planing their trips.
Meanwhile, lets stay connected! Follow us in Facebook to keep informed in real time about the re-opening of borders and routes in the next weeks.
Getting from Arequipa to La Paz by bus takes about 13 hours. There are no direct buses between Arequipa and La Paz so buses will stop in Puno where passengers need to board a different bus. Puno is located 292 km from Arequipa and the trip takes around 6 hours. The bus from Puno to La Paz takes another 6 hours.
Nonetheless, there is also a tourist service offered by Bolivia Hop which includes stops along the way.
Since there is a border crossing, usually in Desaguadero, make sure to have all the necessary documents ready when arriving at the migration office and be aware of the paperwork needed. For more information on the entry requirements for Bolivia, check our blog post here.
Route Arequipa to La Paz – Photo: Google maps
This guide will cover the following:
Book your transport from Arequipa to La Paz
What to do after your arrival?
Plan a tour in La Paz
Other useful information
Typical Andean women dancing – Photo: user 677920 via Pixabay
1. Book your transport to La Paz
As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, there are two ways to travel from Arequipa to La Paz by bus. First, the trip can be done with a stop midway the route in Puno. On the other hand, you can travel with a bus company that offers a tourist experience, with stops where you can hop-on and hop-off, such as Bolivia Hop.
Trip with stopover
The fastest option to travel from Arequipa to La Paz by bus is to go via Puno. Puno, on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca, is famous for the Urus floating islands.
The bus company doing the trip from Arequipa to Puno is 4M Express, a touristic bus company. From Puno to La Paz there are different options with Trans Titicaca (normal bus), Tour Peru (semi lie-flat bus) and Bolivia Hop (tourist bus).
Puno to La Paz by bus
The buses from Puno to La Paz leave every day between 07:00am and 1:30pm. This trip also takes around 6 hours, depending on the route and bus company you choose. Some buses are direct, crossing the border at Desaguadero and others go via Copacabana where travelers need to change buses.
Bus company
Type of bus
Departure time
Arrival time
Additional information
Tour Peru
Semi lie-flat
06:45am
3:00pm
Direct service. Migration in Desaguadero. This ticket does not include the boat trip cost in Tiquina.
Direct service. This ticket does not include the boat trip cost in Tiquina.
Trans Titicaca
Normal
7:30am
6:30pm
Migration in Kasani and change of bus in Copacabana. This ticket does not include the boat trip cost in Tiquina.
Trans Titicaca
Normal
1:30pm
10:30pm
Migration in Kasani and change of bus in Copacabana. This ticket does not include the boat trip cost in Tiquina.
Bolivia Hop
Tourist bus
8:30am
10:30pm
Hop-on/Hop-off service
Floating islands in Puno – Photo: Jerson Goicochea via Unsplash
Tourist bus from Arequipa to La Paz
You also have the option to travel with Bolivia Hop from Arequipa to La Paz in a tourist bus. The journey takes about two days with multiple stops in Lagunillas, Juliaca, Puno and Copacabana. Bolivia Hop provides a personalized service with guides and assistance with border crossing paperwork.
2. What to do after your arrival?
Witches market
Located in downtown La Paz, behind the San Francisco church, it is one of the most visited places by tourists. Here you can find amulets, potions and other various products used to make offerings to Mother Earth, known as Pachamama. There you can also find clothes, accessories and ornaments with indigenous motifs that you can bring back as souvenirs.
Street vendor at Witches Market in La Paz – Photo: Bolivia Hop website
Valle de la Luna
Located on the way to Mallasa, it is located 40 minutes from the city center of La Paz. You can get there by taxi or public transport.
Valle de la Luna – Photo: WaSZI via Pixabay
Cable car – Mi Teleferico La Paz
A transport service consisting of over 8 lines with different routes that will help you to know the whole city of La Paz from above. La Paz is located at 3,650 meters above sea level. You can board any of the lines in the areas of Irpavi, Sopocachi, Obrajes, Alto Obrajes, Av. Arce, Plaza Villarroel, etc.
Cable car in La Paz – Photo: Gabriel Alenius via Unsplash
Viewpoints
The most visited viewpoints are the viewpoints of Pura Pura, Killi Killi and the viewpoint of Laikakota located on Avenida del Ejército.
Children on slide at Laikakota park in La Paz – Photo: Pagina Siete newspaper website
Museums
The city hosts numerous cultural spaces and museums. Some highlights are:
Precious Metal Museum (also known as Gold Museum): This museum holds an impressive collection of Pre-Columbian pieces showcasing jewelries and ceramics.
MUSEF (Museum of Ethnography and Folklore): This museum contains archeological pieces from around Bolivia, ranging from textiles, feathers, masks, metal and stone.
Museum of National History: Showcases fossils of animals from different geological eras. Located in the South Zone of La Paz, in Cota Cota (street 26).
Museum Tambo Quirquincho: Contains collection of colonial and republican silver artefacts. There are also old photographs of La Paz, traditional masks and costumes.
Food
There is something to eat for all tastes and budgets in La Paz. If you want to taste local delicacies, we recommend the delicious salteñas. For more typical and traditional food, you can find many options around the city, especially behind San Francisco church, on Calle Murillo.
Typical salteñas food in La Paz – Photo: Opinion newspaper website
3. Plan a tour in La Paz
For instance, if you want a quick although complete look of this wonderful city you can book a tour with Qantuxcape. Certainly, this sightseeing city tour is the perfect way to discover La Paz and, with stops where you can hop-on and off, it is easy for you to visit the best that the city has to offer.
Sightseeing bus – Photo: Qantuxcape via TicketsBolivia.com
Discover La Paz’s most important landmarks on a bus tour led by experienced tourist guides. Book online here today!
4. Other useful information
We hope the information is useful. Check our other travel guides for Bolivia. If you have any doubts and want advice regarding your travel plans, feel free to contact us at info@ticketsbolivia.com.
This guide will give you all the information you need in order to plan your visit to Copacabana and Isla del Sol in Bolivia. You will find here bus and boat schedules and suggestions on what to do and where to go.
Bus from La Paz to Copacabana
La Paz to Copacabana by bus takes about 4 hours. Buses leave throughout the day but the last bus to leave from the main terminal leaves at 13:30. There are no night buses to Copacabana because buses need to cross by ferry the strait of Tiquina which closes at night.
Schedule and prices for La Paz to Copacabana buses:
Bus Company
Bus Class
Time of Departure
Time of Arrival
Price
Additional Information
Vicuna Travel
Normal
07:30
11:30
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Turisbus
Tourist
07:30
11:30
Includes the crossing of Tiquina. Programmed stops to take pictures and pick-up service.
Trans Titicaca
Normal
08:00
12:00
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Diana Tour
Normal
08:00
12:00
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Trans Titicaca
Normal
13:30
17:30
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Please note that this is the schedule for formal buses leaving from the main terminal in La Paz. The route between La Paz to Copacabana is also operated by informal transport companies (buses and minibuses) leaving from the General Cemetery in La Paz. These leave every day between 6:00 and 18:00 (depending on the time of year). There is no schedule as they leave whenever they are almost full and stop regularly along the way to drop or pick-up passengers. Because of the irregularity and lack of any guarantees regarding safety, we recommend traveling with an established company to avoid any problems. But they do provide the advantage of being more frequent and flexible. The price is about the same than buses leaving from the main terminal: 20/30 Bs.
View of Copacabana from the Calvario – Photo: sunny-upadhyay via Unsplash
Bus from Puno to Copacabana
The Puno to Copacabana bus takes about 4 hours by bus. The journey involves crossing the border at the Kasani office. Depending on the time of day this process can take longer. since the border is closed at night, this trip can only be done during the day.
These two cities, each on the shore of Lake Titicaca but in different countries, offer a very different experience of the lake. Both touristic destinations Puno is a larger city with a more developed tourism industry while Copacabana is smaller and more relaxed. From Copacabana you can visit the Isla de Sol which is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a more quiet, independent experience.
Schedule and prices for buses from Puno to Copacabana:
Bus Company
Bus Class
Time of Departure
Time of Arrival
Price
Additional Details
Trans Titicaca
Normal
06:00
11:00
US$ 10.22
Migration in Kasani
Tour Peru
Normal
07:00
12:00
US$ 9
Migration in Kasani
Huayruro Tours
Semi lie-flat
07:00
12:00
US$ 5.84
Migration in Kasani
Huayruro Tours
Lie-flat
07:00
12:00
US$ 7.30
Migration in Kasani
Transzela
Inca suite
07:00
10:30
US$ 15.00
Migration in Kasani
Trans Titicaca
Normal
07:30
12:30
US$ 10.22
Migration in Kasani
Trans Titicaca
Normal
13:30
18:30
US$ 13.14
Migration in Kasani
A guide to visiting Copacabana
Most people go to Copacabana to visit Isla del Sol, therefore it has the feel of a transit town, but if you take the time there are some interesting sights and things to do around depending on how much time you have.
If you only have a couple of hours in Copacabana, you can walk up the Cerro Calvario for amazing views of the lake (this is especially popular at sunset). The walk up can take 30 minutes to an hour and the hill is easily accessible from Copacabana. Look for the steps to the north of the city. You can also visit the Cathedral of Copacabana and enjoy some trout from the lake.
If you have at least a whole day in Copacabana, you can do a day-hike to Yampupata. This path is not a touristy one, very few people head that way but it provides a nice walk in the countryside with amazing views of the lake on a mostly flat-surface. This is perfect if you want to try high-altitude trekking and do something a bit different. The hike to Yampupata takes about 5 hours and from there you can hire a boat to Isla del Sol or a taxi back to Copacabana.
However, the absolute must-see for people is Isla del Sol. It is possible to go there for the day or even a few hours but ideally one should stay one night on the island to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the scenery. There are also pre-Columbian ruins on the island that are worth visiting.
Where to eat
There is an abundance of places where one can grab a bite in Copacabana, and like in any other touristy, transit town, it is difficult to pick the good places from the less reputable ones. Here are some options we recommend for those who want a quick lunch or a snack to take on their next bus. There are also plenty of more fancy sit-down restaurants where you can try the local trout, local or international dishes.
El Condor & The Eagle Cafe: For a good breakfast. It’s located inside Residencial Paris They serve hearty homemade Irish bread, beans, porridge and organic coffee.
The Pit Stop: Located across from the main plaza where buses drop and pick passengers, it’s ideal for those who just want something small, tasty and convenient to go. They have empanadas, cake and other quick bites to go.
Pan America: For those who crave pizza. They have a simple menu and a rotating selection of fresh ingredients for toppings.
Where to sleep
Backpackers on a small budget will find very affordable accommodation for 20-30 Bs. These hostels will provide very basic rooms and it is recommended to have a sleeping bag as it gets very cold at night. You can find some of these hostels online but the majority doesn’t have an online presence.
As with food, the range of choice for accommodation is wide and with some research you can find what suits your needs best, there are hotels on the shore of the lake, others near the center, eco-lodges and more luxurious options. Prices range between 4 USD to about 150 USD per person per night.
How to get to Isla del Sol
The only way to get to Isla del Sol is by boat from Copacabana (or from Yampupata if you are hiking there). You can hire a private boat from Copacabana which could cost about 40-100 USD depending on your itinerary or you can take a public shared boat for 5-7 USD.
Please note: When arriving to Isla del Sol you will be charged an an admission fee of 10 bolivianos.
Shared boats leave twice a day at 8:30 and 13:30. The journey takes about 1:30 hours to the south part of the island and 2 hours to the north side. Boats stop on both sides so make sure to specify where you want to be dropped off and, if you are doing the trip in one day, where you want to be picked up.
For the last two years the island was experiencing a conflict between the north and south sides with the northern part being closed off to tourists. It has now been solved and tourists can access both sides again. However, there may be small changes of schedule so please take into account that the times given here might be subject to change.
Isla del Sol – Photo: Christopher Crouzet via Unsplash
What to do on Isla del Sol
Isla del Sol is often an underestimated destination where travelers wish they had staid longer. The views, tranquility and absence of motorized vehicles make it the perfect spot to relax between two tours/treks or long bus journeys. We would recommend spending one night there to have time to really appreciate how special this place is.
The north side of the island is where most of the touristic attractions are with pre-Columbian ruins such as: The Rock of the Puma, or Titi Kharka; the Inca Table, supposedly used for human sacrifices; and the Footsteps of the Sun. You first arrive at Cha’llapampa, the town on the northern end of the island. From there you can also visit the Gold Museum which displays Inca treasures discovered underwater off the island.
In the south side is the Yumani community from where you can take the Inca steps down to the port and stop at the Fountain of Youth. Further down south from Yumani is the temple of Pilcocaina. There are not as many sights in the south side but there are plenty of accommodation choices ranging from backpacker hostels to luxurious eco-lodges. There are also more options for food and drinks there.
Explore: You can follow dirt paths and walk around the island to enjoy the views. Please note that the Cha’llapampa community charges about 15 bolivianos to access its archaeological zone but it is where the best beaches are. Walking around the island is generally safe but be careful of stray dogs.
A popular itinerary for a one-day trip to the island is to get dropped off on the north of the island and walk to the south side. The walk takes about 3 hours so you can take the first boat which arrives at about 10:00-10:30 and catch the afternoon boat leaving the south side at about 15:30.
Relax: Find a quiet spot or pick a room with a view, watch the sunset and enjoy the stars at night. To the west, you can see the Peruvian side where Puno is or you can look to the east and admire the Cordillera Real in the distance.
Isla de la Luna: While on Isla del Sol you can visit the smaller island Isla de la Luna next to it. You can take a boat from Yumani or arrange it from Copacabana. This island is home to the Temple of the Virgins and can be explored in an hour by foot. There is a small village to the south. The island doesn’t have any electricity.
To return to Copacabana you can take the boat back in the morning at around 10:00 or in the afternoon at 15:30. Normally, the buses leaving and arriving Copacabana take the boats schedule into account so you have time to visit the islands and take a bus to your next destination.
Puno to Copacabana by bus takes about 4 hours. From Bolivia, La Paz to Copacabana also takes about 4 hours by bus. This guide will give you all the information you need in order to plan your trip from La Paz and Puno to Copacabana and Isla del Sol in Bolivia. You will find here bus and boat schedules and suggestions on what to do and where to go.
Bus from La Paz to Copacabana
La Paz to Copacabana by bus takes about 4 hours. Buses leave throughout the day but the last bus to leave from the main terminal leaves at 13:30. There are no night buses to Copacabana because buses need to cross by ferry the strait of Tiquina which closes at night.
Includes the crossing of Tiquina. Programmed stops to take pictures and pick-up service.
Trans Titicaca
Normal
08:00
12:00
US$ 3.94
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Diana Tour
Normal
08:00
12:00
US$ 4.38
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Trans Titicaca
Normal
13:30
17:30
US$ 3.65
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Bus from La Paz to Copacabana
Please note that this is the schedule for formal buses leaving from the main terminal in La Paz. The route between La Paz to Copacabana by bus is also operated by informal transport companies (buses and minibuses) leaving from the General Cemetery in La Paz. These leave every day between 6:00 and 18:00 (depending on the time of year).
There is no schedule as buses from La Paz to Copacabana leave whenever they are almost full and stop regularly along the way to drop or pick-up passengers. Because of the irregularity and lack of any guarantees regarding safety, we recommend traveling with an established company to avoid any problems. However they do provide the advantage of being more frequent and flexible. The price is about the same than buses leaving from the main terminal: 20/30 Bs.
View of Copacabana from the Calvario – Photo: sunny-upadhyay via Unsplash
Bus from Puno to Copacabana
The Puno to Copacabana bus takes about 4 hours by bus and the journey involves crossing the border at the Kasani office. Depending on the time of day this process can take longer. since the border is closed at night, this trip can only be done during the day.
These two cities, each on the shore of Lake Titicaca but in different countries, offer a very different experience of the lake. They are both touristic destinations: Puno is a larger city with a more developed tourism industry while Copacabana is smaller and more relaxed. But, from Copacabana you can visit the Isla de Sol which is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a more quiet, independent experience.
Most people go to Copacabana to see Lake Titicaca and visit Isla del Sol, therefore it has the feel of a transit town, but if you take the time there are some interesting sights and things to do around depending on how much time you have.
If you only have a couple of hours in Copacabana, you can walk up the Cerro Calvario for amazing views of the lake (this is especially popular at sunset). The walk up can take 30 minutes to an hour and the hill is easily accessible from Copacabana. Look for the steps to the north of the city. You can also visit the Cathedral of Copacabana and enjoy some trout from the lake.
If you have at least a whole day in Copacabana, you can do a day-hike to Yampupata. This path is not a touristy one and very few people head that way but it provides a nice walk in the countryside with amazing views of the lake on a mostly flat-surface. This is perfect if you want to try high-altitude trekking and do something a bit different. The hike to Yampupata takes about 5 hours and from there you can hire a boat to Isla del Sol or a taxi back to Copacabana.
However, the absolute must-see for people is Isla del Sol. It is possible to go there for the day or even a few hours but ideally one should stay one night on the island to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the scenery. There are also pre-Columbian ruins on the island that are worth visiting.
Where to eat
There is an abundance of places where one can grab a bite in Copacabana, and like in any other touristy, transit town, it is difficult to pick the good places from the less reputable ones. Here are some options we recommend for those who want a quick lunch or a snack to take on their next bus. There are also plenty of more fancy sit-down restaurants where you can try the local trout, local or international dishes.
El Condor & The Eagle Cafe: For a good breakfast. It’s located inside Residencial Paris and they serve hearty homemade Irish bread, beans, porridge and organic coffee.
The Pit Stop: Located across from the main plaza where buses drop and pick passengers, it’s ideal for those who just want something small, tasty and convenient to go. They also have empanadas, cake and other quick bites to go.
Pan America: For those who crave pizza. They have a simple menu and a rotating selection of fresh ingredients for toppings.
Where to sleep
Backpackers on a small budget will find very affordable accommodation for 20-30 Bs. These hostels will provide very basic rooms and it is recommended to have a sleeping bag as it gets very cold at night. You can find some of these hostels online but the majority doesn’t have an online presence.
As with food, the range of choice for accommodation is wide and with some research you can find what suits your needs best, there are hotels on the shore of the lake and others near the center. There are also eco-lodges and more luxurious options. Prices range between 4 USD to about 150 USD per person per night.
How to get to Isla del Sol
The only way to get to Isla del Sol is by boat from Copacabana (or from Yampupata if you are hiking there). However, you can hire a private boat from Copacabana which could cost about 40-100 USD depending on your itinerary or you can take a public shared boat for 5-7 USD.
Please note: When arriving to Isla del Sol you will be charged an an admission fee of 10 bolivianos.
Boat from Copacabana to Isla del Sol
Shared boats leave twice a day at 8:30 and 13:30 and the journey takes about 1:30 hours to the south part of the island and 2 hours to the north side. Boats stop on both sides so make sure to specify where you want to be dropped off and, if you are doing the trip in one day, where you want to be picked up.
Please note:
For the last two years the island was experiencing a conflict between the north and south sides with the northern part being closed off to tourists. It has finally been solved and tourists can now access both sides again. However, there may be small changes of schedule so please take into account that the times given here might be subject to change.
Isla del Sol – Photo: Christopher Crouzet via Unsplash
What to do on Isla del Sol
Isla del Sol is often an underestimated destination where travelers wish they had staid longer. The views, tranquility and absence of motorized vehicles make it the perfect spot to relax between two tours/treks or long bus journeys. While you are there, we would recommend spending one night there to have time to really appreciate how special this place is.
Suggested itinerary for visiting Isla del Sol
The north side of the island is where most of the touristic attractions are with pre-Columbian ruins such as: The Rock of the Puma, or Titi Kharka; the Inca Table, supposedly used for human sacrifices and the Footsteps of the Sun. You first arrive at Cha’llapampa, the town on the northern end of the island. From there you can also visit the Gold Museum which displays Inca treasures discovered underwater off the island.
In the south side is the Yumani community from where you can take the Inca steps down to the port and stop at the Fountain of Youth. Further down south from Yumani is the temple of Pilcocaina. There are not as many sights in the south side but there are plenty of accommodation choices ranging from backpacker hostels to luxurious eco-lodges. There are also more options for food and drinks there.
Explore
You can follow dirt paths and walk around the island to enjoy the views. Please note that the Cha’llapampa community charges about 15 bolivianos to access its archaeological zone but it is where the best beaches are. Walking around the island is generally safe but be careful of stray dogs.
Another popular itinerary for a one-day trip to the island is to get dropped off on the north of the island and walk to the south side. The walk takes about 3 hours so you can take the first boat which arrives at about 10:00-10:30 and catch the afternoon boat leaving the south side at about 15:30.
Relax
If you want to relax, find a quiet spot or pick a room with a view, watch the sunset and enjoy the stars at night. To the west, you can see the Peruvian side or you can look to the east and admire the Cordillera Real in the distance.
Isla de la Luna: While on Isla del Sol you can visit the smaller island Isla de la Luna next to it or you can take a boat from Yumani or arrange it from Copacabana. This island is home to the Temple of the Virgins and can be explored in an hour by foot. There is a small village to the south and please note that the island doesn’t have any electricity.
Finally, to return to Copacabana you can take the boat back in the morning at around 10:00 or in the afternoon at 15:30. Normally, the buses leaving and arriving Copacabana take the boats schedule into account so you have time to visit the islands and take a bus to your next destination.
Puno to La Paz by bus takes about 8 hours depending on how long it takes to cross the border. There are different options to do this route, directly or via Copacabana. Read on to make the most of this route, and to find the best option for you.
Island of the Sun, Lake Titicaca
Puno is one of the highest city in Peru, at around 4,000 meters above sea level. It is on the shore of lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world on the skirts of the Andes mountain range. In Puno you can take a boat trip to the Uru’s floating islands, visit the Cathedral of Puno and visit other archaeological sites.
1. Puno to La Paz by bus
The bus terminal in Puno is located here (see map below). Before boarding the bus every passenger has to pay a terminal tax that has a cost of around 0.4 $us and is not included in the bus ticket. From this bus terminal you can travel to La Paz and other destinations in Bolivia and Peru.
Direct buses from Puno to La Paz go via the migration center near Desaguadero. Buses won’t stop in the town and the border crossing takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on how many buses are ahead of you. The process is fairly straight forward. Get your passport stamped leaving Peru and stamp in again to enter Bolivia. US citizens and other nationalities requiring a visa should make sure to have all the necessary paperwork and documents available before traveling.
Schedule and prices for buses from Puno to La Paz
Bus Company
Bus Class
Time of Departure
Time of Arrival
Price
Additional Information
Tour Peru
Semi lie-flat
6:45
15:00
US$ 15
Direct service. Migration in Desaguadero.
Trans Titicaca
Normal
7:00
15:00
US$ 17.52
Direct service. Migration in Desaguadero.
Trans Titicaca
Normal
13:30
22:30
US$ 20.44
Via Kasani. Change of bus iun Copacabana.
2. Puno to Copacabana by bus
The bus from Puno to Copacabana takes about 4 hours by bus. You will have to cross the border a the Kasani migration office.
Copacabana is a smaller and more relaxed town with many cultural and natural tourist attractions. Copacabana offers boat trips, hikes and the best trout in the region, as well as tours to the Islands of the Sun and Moon, where legend says the Inca Empire was founded. If you want to stop there on the way to La Paz, you can easily do so by taking one of the buses below:
Schedule and price for buses from Puno to Copacabana
Bus Company
Bus Class
Time of Departure
Time of Arrival
Price
Additional Information
Trans Titicaca
Normal
06:00
11:00
US$ 10.22
Direct service. Migration in Kasani.
Tour Peru
Normal
07:00
12:00
US$ 9.00
Direct service. Migration in Kasani.
Huayruro Tours
Semi lie-flat
07:00
12:00
US$ 5.84
Direct service. Migration in Kasani.
Huayruro Tours
Lie-flat
07:00
12:00
US$ 7.30
Direct service. Migration in Kasani.
Transzela
Inca suite
07:00
10:00
US$ 15.00
Direct service. Migration in Kasani.
Trans Titicaca
Normal
07:30
12:30
US$ 10.22
Direct service. Migration in Kasani.
Trans Titicaca
Normal
13:30
18:30
US$ 13.14
Direct service. Migration in Kasani.
You will notice there are no night trips available. This is because the border closes at 20:00. Also please take into account that there is an hour time difference between Peru and Bolivia.
Copacabana, Bolivia foto: worldynomads.com
Please take into consideration that some buses make several short stops along the way, picking up passengers from local communities who make a living by selling food and beverages on the buses. Since these stops are not in the official itinerary, they may be upsetting for tourists.
There is no proper bus terminal in Copacabana, as it is a very small town, but buses stop at the main square near the bus companies’ offices. Here is the map:
If you are interested in spending a day or two in Copacabana before continuing your trip, one of the most popular things to do is visit the Island of the Sun (Isla del Sol). The boats leave from the dock at 8:30 and 13:30 most days. It takes about an hour and a half to reach Isla del Sol. On the island you will be able to see pre-Columbian ruins and experience the peace and energy of one of the most sacred places of the Inca empire. The boats back to Copacabana leave at 10:30 and 16:00, reaching Copacabana before 18:00.
3. Copacabana to La Paz
Copacabana to La Paz takes about 4 hours. The journey involves crossing the Tiquina strait which costs 2 bolivianos and is not usually included in your ticket. The buses will stop on the shore, passengers will have to cross the strait on boat while the boat crosses on a ferry. Passengers must then wait on the other side for their bus to finish crossing. They will then resume their journey. This takes about 30 minutes. Because it is not possible to cross the strait at night, the last bus to La Paz leaves at 18:30.
Schedule and price for buses from Copacabana to La Paz
Bus Company
Bus Class
Time of Departure
Time of Arrival
Price
Additional information
Trans Titicaca
Normal
13:30
17:30
US$ 5.84
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Vicuna Travel
Normal
13:30
17:30
US$ 4.38
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Diana Tours
Normal
13:30
17:30
US$ 4.38
Doesn’t include the crossing of Tiquina (2 Bs)
Turisbus
Tourist
13:30
18:00
US$ 19.00
Includes the crossing of Tiquina. Programmed stops to take pictures and pick-up service.
Here you will find all the information you need to know about the Route of the Sun between Cusco and Puno and how to get from Cusco to Puno by bus or train.
Discover the Route of the Sun
One of the most overlooked routes for tourists that travel in bus around Latin America is the trip from Cusco to Puno by bus, also known as Ruta del Sol, or Route of the Sun. This trip by land takes you across 386 km of scenic view and ancient Inca sites, connecting two of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru: Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca.
There are different options to do this route. You can either take a direct bus which will take about 7 hours, or you can opt for a more touristic option that will let you enjoy the different archaeological and cultural sites along the way but takes about 10 hours and has a higher cost. There is also a luxury train going from Cusco to Puno. Here we will explain in detail these options in order to help decide which one is the best for you.
Lake Titicaca, Puno, Peru
1. Direct buses from Cusco to Puno
Due to high demand from tourists from all around the world, there are many bus companies that offer this route, especially during the high season (December-January and June-August). The table below shows the times of departure, the different bus companies and prices available for this trip. If your schedule is tight and/or you would rather save money for other sites later on during your trip, this is the best option for you.
Direct options from Cusco to Puno
Bus company
Seat class
Time of departure
Time of arrival (estimated)
Price in US$
Extra info
Tour Peru
Semi lie- flat/lie-flat
22:00
5:00 (+1 day)
$13.14/$18.25
Direct service
Transzela
Inca suite
8:30
15:30
$15
Direct service
Transzela
Inca suite
22:15
5:15 (+1 day)
$15
Direct service
Huayruro Tours
Semi lie-flat/lie-flat
22:30
5:00 (+1 day)
$11.68/$16.08
Direct service
Trans Titicaca
Semi lie-flat
22:30
5:30 (+1 day)
$14.60
Direct service
The “lie flat” seats recline to 170 degrees, while “semi lie-flat” seats recline to 140 degrees. All buses have air conditioning and bathroom. The buses traveling to Puno depart from Cusco at the main bus terminal, located on Via de Evitamento. See map below:
Puno, on the other hand, is a city with an important cultural and natural heritage, such as the floating islands of the Uros on Lake Titicaca, one of the most important tourist attractions in Peru and Bolivia. The city of Puno is also an important passage point between Bolivia and Peru, and tourists traveling between the two countries are bound to pass through on the way to or from Copacabana or La Paz. Buses arrive in Puno at the bus terminal, located on Primero de Mayo. (See map below).
2. What to see along the Route of the Sun
The route from Cusco to Puno goes through scenic landscapes, Inca ruins and archaeological sites worth visiting. Most direct buses leave at night which won’t let you appreciate the scenery around you. If you just visited Machu Picchu it is a logical continuation of you trip and you can do so with a tourist bus service which includes stops in each of the major location, an English-speaking guide, and lunch.
Andahuaylillas (3,122 masl): Sometimes referred as the Sistine Chapel of America, the church of San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas was built by the Jesuits in the 16th century. It was built on top of an Inca sacred site.
Raqchi (3,175 masl): Here you can visit the Wiracocha temple built by the Inca in honor tof their god Wiracocha. The temple is a great construction .
La Raya (4,338 masl): La Raya Pass offers stunning scenery as the highest point in the trip. The buses will stop here to allow passengers to enjoy the view and take photos.
Pukara (3,575 masl): Pukara is an ancient cultural center, dated as early as 1,800 BC. This was the first large urban center in the region. The archaeological site also gave its name to what some archaeologists refer to as Pukara culture.
Touristic options from Cusco to Puno
Company
Seat class
Time of departure
Time of arrival (estimated)
Price in US$
Extra info
Inka Express
Bus
7:00
17:30
$65
Stops along the way. Buffet lunch
Wonder Peru Expedition
Bus
7:00
17:30
$55
Stops along the way. Buffet lunch
PeruRail Titicaca
Train
7:10
17:30
$265
Lunch
Inka Express stops in the following sites: Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, Marangani (for the buffet lunch), La Raya and the Museum of Pukara. Buses leave Cusco from their private terminal located Avenida Alameda Pachacuteq 499.
Pukara, Peru – By David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada via Wikimedia Commons
Wonder Peru Expedition offers the following itinerary:
Departure from Cusco
7:00
1st visit
8:10
Andahuaylillas
35 min
2nd visit
10:20
Raqchi
45 min
Buffet lunch
11:20
Lunch
50 min
Photos
13:00
El Paso La Raya
10 min
3rd visit
14:30
Pucara
35 min.
Photos
14:55
Kalassaya
10 min
Arrival in Puno
17:30
End of trip
Wonder Peru Expedition buses leave from their private bus terminal located Avenida 28 de Julio R-2-1.
3. The luxury experience: PeruRail Titicaca
Peru Rail Titicaca offers a luxury experience in their train from Puno to Cusco, travelers can enjoy unrivaled service aboard a beautiful train, dining in 1920s-style Pullman carriages and absorbing breathtaking landscapes. The train has open-air observation cars ideal for capturing unique panoramas.
The journey in train lasts approximately 10 hours 30 minutes. At the start of the journey, passengers are welcomed at the Wanchaq Station in Cusco where local musicians will provide background music as you board the train. There are two dining cars with the finest gourmet food and afternoon tea.
Departures: Sunday, Wednesday and Friday
Cost: Starting at 245 USD
Tickets Bolivia offers the sale of tickets online for traveling between Cusco and Puno. The online tickets at the best prices, and with the most reliable companies offering the service. Have a great trip!
Cusco to La Paz or Cusco to Copacabana to La Paz or Cusco to Puno to La Paz?
Here you will find all the information you need to know to go from Cusco to Puno-Copacabana-La Paz. We will also help you choose between Puno or Copacabana and provide you with all the bus and train information to plan your journey.
If you are traveling from Peru to Bolivia, you probably are going from Cusco to La Paz. The easiest and cheapest way to do this journey is by bus. But there is another reason to choose bus travel over plane for this itinerary. The journey from Cusco to La Paz by bus goes via the Lake Titicaca where you can decide to break your trip and visit Puno or Copacabana. After Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca is one of the most famous and popular holiday destination in South America. It’s the highest navigable lake in the world and provided some of the most beautiful sunsets and views you can imagine.
Here we will help you decide what is the best itinerary for your trip and how to get there.
1. How to get directly from Cusco to La Paz by bus
Direct buses from Cusco to La Paz leave in the evening, after 22:00 hours, in order to reach the Desaguadero border in the morning when it opens thus avoiding lines.
Buses leave from the main terminal in Cusco located here. The journey takes about 14 to 16 hours depending how long it takes to cross the border. The bus goes via Puno where it stops briefly.
Direct bus schedule from Cusco to La Paz
Bus company
Seat class
Time of departure
Time of arrival (estimated)
Price in US$
Extra info
Trans Salvador
Lie-flat 3 rows
22:00
13:00 (+1 day)
$24.09
Direct service. Migration in Desaguadero
Tour Peru
Semi-lie flat
22:00
15:00 (+1 day)
$29.00
Direct service. Migration in Desaguadero
Nuevo Continente Internacional
Lie flat
22:30
14:00 (+1 day)
$26.28
Direct service. Migration in Desaguadero
Uros Floating Islands – Photo: bobistraveling via Wikemedia Commons
2. Puno or Copacabana, which one is better?
A common decision that travelers who want to see Lake Titicaca have to make is to choose between Puno, on the Peruvian side of the lake, or Copacabana, on the Bolivian side. Both options are worth exploring but sometimes due to time constraints, it’s one or the other.
Why Puno?
Puno is a good sized town on the shore of the lake with archaeological sites nearby and where you can learn about colonial history and stay in the homes of the people native to the area:
Visit the Catedral de Puno, an 18th-century Baroque cathedral that towers over the city center.
Museo Municipal Carlos Dryer: The museum holds a solid selection of regional artifacts and textiles, including a collection of mummies with deformed skulls.
Uros Floating Islands: Founded by the Uros people, the islands have been artificially made from the native totora reed. The Uros meticulously maintain their traditional homes and welcome visitors.
Amantani Island: Further away than the Uros Islands, Amantani Island provides a fascinating and authentic insight into local indigenous culture. Tourists can choose to spend a night there thanks to community-run initiatives which will allow you stay in a family home.
Another island worthy of a visit is Taquile. Smaller yet more developed, the island is famous throughout Peru for its textiles. You can also visit archaeological sites and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake.
Back on the mainland, Sillustani is an intriguing pre-Inca burial ground. The tombs, which are built above ground in funeral towers called chullpas, are the vestiges of the Qulla people, who were conquered by the Inca Empire in the 15th century.
Why Copacabana?
Copacabana is known for its mystique and beauty, and for the best trout you’ll ever eat. It’s smaller and more quiet than Puno but has a unique charm and allows for some small hikes around the lake.
If you don’t have much time and want to make the most of your visit, you can choose one or several of these options:
Climb Cerro El Calvario: A 30 minutes-walk up the hill to panoramic views of the lake. It is a popular spot to watch the sunset.
Spend a night on Isla del Sol: One of the most popular things to do when you are in Copacabana is visit the Sun Island. The boats leave from the dock at 8:00 and 13:30 every day. It takes about an hour and a half to get to the island. On the island you will be able to see Incan ruins and experience the peace and energy of one of the most sacred places of the Incan empire. It is a very picturesque place where one can enjoy panoramic views of the lake, sights of the Cordillera Real, and hikes trough ancestral terracing and Pre-Columbian ruins.
Moon Island: Legend has it that this is where Viracocha (the Inca Creator deity) commanded the rising of the moon. It is a tiny island located near the Sun Island on Lake Titicaca, it is home to the ruins of the Temple of the Virgins. Hiking the entire island takes about an hour.
Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana: A 16th-century Spanish colonial church that houses the image of the Virgen de Copacabana.
The verdict
Both cities are transit places to go visit more picturesque sites on or near the lake. Copacabana is more relaxed than Puno but has less to offer in terms of cultural and touristic activities, and is smaller in size. Isla del Sol is less developed but, being free of cars, and protected by the local communities, it is a peaceful place to enjoy nature and amazing views of the lake. On the other hand, the Urus Floating Islands, near Puno will offer a different experience where tourists can stay in traditional houses and learn about the culture of the area. The choice will depend on each one’s personal preference, Puno and Copacabana could either be skipped but generally it is worth spending at least one night on an island on the lake.
View of Copacabana
3. Getting to Puno
To do the route from Cusco to Puno, also known as Ruta del Sol (Sun Route), there are two main options. The first one is to take a direct bus that takes about 7 hours. The second option is to take a tourist bus or train that will make stops along the way and provide guided explanations on the different sites.
Direct options from Cusco to Puno
Bus company
Seat class
Time of departure
Time of arrival (estimated)
Price in US$
Extra info
Tour Peru
Semi-lie flat/lie flat
22:00
5:00 (+1 day)
$13.14/$18.25
Direct service
Transzela
Inca suite
8:30
15:30
$15
Direct service
Transzela
Inca suite
22:15
5:15 (+1 day)
$15
Direct service
Huayruro Tours
Semi-lie flat/lie flat
22:30
5:00 (+1 day)
$11.68/$16.08
Direct service
Trans Titicaca
Semi-lie flat
22:30
5:30 (+1 day)
$14.60
Direct service
Touristic options from Cusco to Puno
Company
Seat class
Time of departure
Time of arrival (estimated)
Price in US$
Extra info
Inka Express
Bus
7:00
17:30
$65
Stops along the way. Buffet lunch
Wonder Peru Expedition
Bus
7:00
17:30
$55
Stops along the way. Buffet lunch
PeruRail Titicaca
Train
7:10
17:30
$265
Lunch
From Puno, there are direct buses to La Paz and Copacabana (see below).
4. Getting to Copacabana
Buses from Cusco to Copacabana usually involve a stop or a change of bus in Puno. Buses from Puno to Copacabana are then direct. The border crossing point is Yunguyo-Kasani. Stories of tourists being scammed have been reported at this border point, you can read our blog on how to avoid and deal with scams when traveling by bus in South America.
Isla de la Luna – Photo: Chtiwiki via Wikimedia Commons
Direct options from Puno to Copacabana by bus
Company
Seat class
Time of departure
Time of arrival (estimated)
Price in US$
Extra info
Trans Titicaca
Normal bus
6:00
11:00
$8.76
Migration in Kasani
Trans Titicaca
Normal bus
7:30
12:30
$8.76
Migration in Kasani
Trans Titicaca
Normal bus
13:30
18:30
$11.68
Migration in Kasani
Transzela
Inca suite
7:00
10:00
$11
Migration in Kasani
Huayruro Tours
Semi-lie flat/lie flat
7:00
12:00
$7.30
Migration in Kasani
Tour Peru
Normal bus
7:00
12:00
$9
Migration in Kasani
5. Getting to La Paz via Puno or Copacabana
Whether you are leaving from Cusco, Puno or Copacabana, there are direct buses for each route. Copacabana to La Paz takes about 4 hours. The journey involves crossing the Tiquina straight, which costs 2 bolivianos, a cost which is not usually included in the bus ticket. Buses can’t cross at night so buses don’t leave after 18:30.
If taking a direct bus from Cusco or Puno, migration takes place at Desaguadero.
Most buses to La Paz arrive at the main bus terminal on Uruguay Avenue. Tourist buses sometimes drop passengers at their hotels. This is the case for companies such as Turisbus and Bolivia Hop.
Direct buses from Puno to La Paz
Company
Seat class
Time of departure
Time of arrival (estimated)
Price in US$
Extra info
Tour Peru
Semi-lie flat
6:45
15:00
$15
Migration in Desaguadero
Trans Titicaca
Normal bus
7:00
15:00
$14.60
Migration in Desaguadero
Direct buses from Copacabana to La Paz
Company
Seat class
Time of departure
Time of arrival (estimated)
Price in US$
Extra info
Diana Tour
Normal bus
13:30
17:30
$4.30
Does not include crossing fee in Tiquina (2Bs)
Trans Titicaca
Normal bus
13:30
17:30
$5.11
Does not include crossing fee in Tiquina (2Bs)
Vicuna Travel
Normal bus
13:30
17:30
$4.38
Does not include the boat cost in Tiquina (2Bs)
Turisbus
Tourist bus
13:30
18:00
$19.00
Pick-up from hotel.
Includes crossing fee in Tiquina (2Bs)
Trans Titicaca
Normal bus
18:30
22:30
$5.84
Does not include crossing fee in Tiquina (2Bs)
Please take into consideration that some buses make several short stops along the way, picking up passengers and sometimes women from local communities who make a living by selling food and beverages on the buses. Since these stops are not in the official itinerary, they may be upsetting for tourists.
Another option to travel from Cusco to La Paz and take the time to explore Puno and/or Copacabana would be to travel with Bolivia Hop which offers passes to hop-on and hop-off in both cities and comes with some optional tours. You can book online any of the buses presented above as well as the Bolivia Hop Cusco to La Paz pass.
Please also note that the bus schedules are subject to change by the bus companies and that these are not an exhaustive list, we’ve selected the most reliable an safest bus companies for your convenience. More options exist at the bus terminals with more informal bus companies that cannot be booked online.
A Bolivia Travel Guide