Puno: Scenic Sun Route to Cusco with Buffet Lunch

Step Into the Ancient World of Pucará. Discover one of the most important pre-Inca cultures in the Andes! Pucará is more than a stop—it’s the birthplace of highland civilization in the Lake Titicaca region, dating back to 500 BC. At its peak, this thriving city stretched across a full square kilometer, home to priests, artisans, farmers, and warriors. But what makes Pucará truly unforgettable are its stunning monolithic sculptures and colorful ceramics. You’ll see intricate designs—geometric, animal, and human—that still captivate archaeologists and visitors alike. Wander through temples, feel the ancient energy of this sacred site, and witness the artistry of Peru’s earliest cultural pioneers.

Welcome to the highest point of your journey—Abra La Raya, a breathtaking mountain pass that marks the natural border between Cusco and Puno. Perched at 4,335 meters (14,200 feet) above sea level, this spot delivers 360° views of the snow-capped Andes, glacial streams, and endless skies. Keep your camera ready—you’ll often spot peaceful alpacas grazing beneath towering peaks. Feel the crisp mountain air, take in the silence of the highlands, and experience the raw beauty of Peru’s Altiplano. It’s more than a photo stop—it’s a moment you’ll remember forever.

Midway through your journey, you’ll enjoy a relaxing 1-hour buffet lunch—a flavorful highlight of the tour. Set in a scenic Andean town, this meal showcases the rich culinary traditions of the highlands. Sample a wide variety of authentic local dishes, including quinoa soups, grilled meats, native potatoes, fresh vegetables, and traditional sauces made from regional spices. There are plenty of options for vegetarians, and the buffet is served in a clean, comfortable dining hall with friendly staff and great views. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that will leave you satisfied, energized, and ready for the next leg of your adventure.

Step into one of the most sacred and impressive Inca sites on the Route of the Sun. Raqchi, officially recognized as one of the Best Tourism Villages, is home to Wiracocha Temple—a massive, 15-meter-tall was built by an Inca emperor to honor Wiracocha, the Andean people’s invisible Superior God Explore crumbling walls, ceremonial halls, and ancient storage silos that once supported a bustling Inca settlement. The scale, symmetry, and stonework are truly astonishing, offering insight into both the spiritual beliefs and engineering genius of the Inca Empire. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, Raqchi is one of those places that lingers in your memory long after the journey ends.

Our journey ends with a showstopper—the stunning Church of Saint Peter the Apostle, better known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.” Tucked inside a quiet village, this humble-looking 16th-century church hides an interior of pure visual drama: gold-leaf altars, ornate wood carvings, and ceiling-to-wall frescoes that blend Andean traditions with European baroque style. Built by Jesuits atop a sacred Inca site, the church is a powerful symbol of Peru’s layered spiritual history. It’s the perfect finale—rich in color, meaning, and wonder.