About the route to Puno, a city located in the Peruvian highlands and on the shores of Lake Titicaca, offers an impressive journey through captivating landscapes and ancestral cultures. From the city of Cusco, the most common route follows the Interoceanic South Highway, which crosses the Andes and passes through picturesque Andean towns such as Sicuani and Juliaca. During the journey, travelers can delight in panoramic views of the mountains, crystal-clear lagoons, and agricultural fields that dot the landscape. Additionally, the route offers the opportunity to visit important archaeological sites such as Raqchi and Pukara, which provide a fascinating insight into the pre-Inca history of the region. Along the way to Puno, travelers can immerse themselves in the rich Andean culture, enjoying traditional music, local crafts, and delicious regional cuisine. Once in Puno, visitors can explore the mysterious Lake Titicaca, home to floating islands inhabited by the indigenous Uros community, and discover the beauty and spirituality of this unique environment in the world.
Weather in Puno
The weather in Puno is mostly cold and dry due to its location in the Andean highlands. During the day, temperatures are usually cool, averaging around 15°C, while at night they drop considerably, even reaching below zero temperatures, especially during the months of June to August. Rainfall is scarce and mainly concentrated between December and March. However, solar radiation is high due to the high altitude, so it's important to protect oneself adequately against sun exposure during the day.
Hotels in Puno
Hotel Hacienda Puno Centro Histórico
- Jr. Deustua, 297, 051 Puno
- Prices: From S/ 205.00
- Services: The rooms feature a 32-inch plasma satellite TV, a desk, and a bathroom with marble elements and toiletries. It serves an extensive buffet breakfast made with fresh local ingredients. For lunch and dinner, it offers a fusion of regional and international dishes.
Casona Plaza Balsa Inn
- Jr. Cajamarca 556, Puno
- Prices: From S/ 163.00
- Services: The rooms in this accommodation include a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a safe. In the hotel, each room is equipped with bed linen and towels. Guests can enjoy a buffet, continental, or American breakfast at the property.
Hostel Sillustani Inn Puno
- Jr. Tarapaca Nro 305, Puno
- Prices: From S/ 72.00
- Services: It has a tour desk where cruises to the floating islands of the Uros and visits to the archaeological site of Sillustani, which enjoys views of Lake Umayo, are organized. Additionally, there are folk dance shows every night. The Amantani restaurant prepares novoandina cuisine such as trout, quinoa, and smoked cheese, while the bar offers the traditional pisco sour. Includes breakfast.
Casa Andina Standard Puno
- Jr. Independencia 143, Puno
- Prices: From S/ 243.00
- Services: The rooms are spacious and sunny and feature feather duvets, satellite TV, and a spacious seating area. It is a 5-minute drive from the port of Puno, where guests can participate in boat excursions. It is also within easy driving distance of Puno Train Station.
Restaurants in Puno
Alma Bar Restaurante
- Avenida Sesquicentenario 1970, Puno
- Services: It offers a gastronomic proposal that highlights ingredients and recipes from ancestral culture with contemporary touches. Its varied menu includes appetizers and tapas, main courses, light dishes, and accompaniments, as well as chef recommendations.
Valeria Restaurant
- Jr Libertad 352, Puno
- Services: Suitable for vegetarians, vegan options, gluten-free options.
Mojsa Restaurant
- Jr. Lima 635, 2nd Floor Plaza de Armas, Puno
- Services: Peruvian Food, International. Suitable for vegetarians, vegan options, gluten-free options.
Tourist places in Puno
- Lake Titicaca: Lake Titicaca, located on the border between Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world and one of Puno's most important tourist destinations. Home to the mysterious floating islands of the Uros and natural islands such as Amantani and Taquile, the lake offers stunning landscapes and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the culture and traditions of the indigenous communities that inhabit it.
- Isla de Taquile: This island, located on Lake Titicaca, is known for its ancestral culture, traditional textiles, and stunning natural landscape. Visitors can explore the picturesque trails of the island, visit the local communities, and learn about their unique textile traditions, which have been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
- Sillustani: Located about 30 kilometers north of Puno, Sillustani is an impressive archaeological site that houses the famous "chullpas," funeral towers built by the pre-Inca civilization of the Collas. These imposing structures, located in a picturesque setting next to Lake Umayo, offer a fascinating insight into the ancient history of the region and are a must-visit destination for lovers of archaeology and history.
Important dates in Puno
- February 2 - Feast of the Virgin of Candelaria: This celebration is one of the most important festivities in Puno and one of the largest in South America. During this religious and cultural festival, colorful parades, folk dances, and musical events are held in honor of the Virgin of Candelaria.
- November 5 - Anniversary of Puno: On this date, the founding of the city of Puno is commemorated. Civic, cultural, and sports activities are carried out to celebrate the development and history of the city.
How to get to Puno?
To get to Puno from Cusco, one of the most common options is to take a bus, which involves a journey of approximately 390 kilometers that lasts around 7 to 8 hours.
How to move around Puno?
To get around Puno, various transportation options can be used, including:
- Taxis: Taxis are a convenient option for getting around the city. Fares are usually negotiated directly with the driver and may vary depending on the distance and time of day. A short trip within the city can cost around 5 to 10 soles.
- Mototaxis: Mototaxis are an economical and fast way to get around Puno. Fares are usually lower than taxis and range from 3 to 5 soles per trip within the city.
- Urban buses: Puno has a system of urban buses that travel the main streets of the city and its surroundings. The cost of the ticket is approximately 1.50 to 2 soles per person, depending on the distance traveled.
- Walking: Many of Puno's tourist attractions are located in the city center and are easily accessible on foot. Walking is an excellent way to explore the city and enjoy its local charm.
Gastronomy in Puno
- Grilled trout
- Chairo
- Chuño colado
- Kankacho
- Spicy guinea pig
Things to buy in Puno
- Textile crafts
- Silver jewelry
- Ceramics
- Leather products
- Regional food products
Data from Puno
Puno, located in the Peruvian highlands on the shores of Lake Titicaca, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. With an altitude of over 3,800 meters above sea level, it is one of the highest cities in the world and offers a unique combination of Andean traditions and stunning nature. In addition to being home to various colorful festivals and fascinating archaeological sites, Puno is renowned for its cuisine, which includes typical dishes such as grilled trout and kankacho.
Operators of the Arequipa to Puno bus route
- Transzela
- Turismo Zolorzano
- Guardianes del Cosmos
- Turismo Mer
- Sur Oriente
- Real Dorado
- Turismo Sur Pacífico
In Conclusion
Traveling from Arequipa to Puno with redBus is a convenient and safe option. This route offers impressive views of the Andean landscapes as it takes you from the historic city of Arequipa to the charming Puno, located on the shores of the majestic Lake Titicaca. With redBus, you can easily book your tickets online and enjoy a quiet and comfortable journey to your desired destination.