Arequipa to Puno tickets

	Distance 176 km (110.0 miles)
	Price range US$ 17-US$ 487
	Ride Duration Range 5h 20m-7h
	Earliest Departure 10:15
	Latest Departure 23:00
	Most Popular Operator Transzela

There are no direct flights from Arequipa to Puno, but you can take a reclining seat bus which is comfortable and affordable. Additionally, it is a relaxing and scenic drive. Bring your dancing shoes if you go to Puno during festival season as they constantly have music and festivities going on, hence its reputation of being “the folkloric capital.” You can also go sightseeing around Lake Titicaca. If you travel during January or February, which is festival season, bring a jacket because it can get chilly. June through October is much warmer and pleasant.

Taking a bus from Arequipa to Puno

Fastest bus: 6h

Cheapest bus: US$ 17

The fastest: 6h

The cheapest: US$ 17

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

Reclining Seats

Blanket

Charger

Food

English Speaking Staff

Wifi

The fastest: 5h 20m

The cheapest: US$ 84

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

The fastest: 5h 30m

The cheapest: US$ 275

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

About the ride from Arequipa to Puno

As Peru’s second-largest city, Arequipa is a must-visit destination on any trip to this diverse country. With its stunning canyons, dramatic cliffs, scenic viewpoints, and the remarkable Salinas and Aguada Blanca Nature Reserve, Arequipa offers something for every traveler.

As your adventure continues, you might wonder: where should you head next?

Puno, the gateway to the iconic Lake Titicaca, is an excellent choice. Conveniently accessible by bus or minivan from Arequipa, it promises more unforgettable experiences. Additionally, it’s only 5.5-6.5 hours away.

Let’s explore the best ways to get there and what Puno has to offer.

Five unique things to do in Puno

Puno is best known for its fascinating connection to Lake Titicaca and the traditional lifestyles preserved by the local communities. Even today, the Uros people pass down traditions from their ancestors.

Below are some of the top experiences to add to your Puno itinerary:

Take a boat to the Uros Floating Islands. There, you will see the incredible work of the Indigenous Uros people, who craft the floating islands from totora roots (water-resistant plants that grow in the lake).

Not only that, the locals use this plant to build roofs and mattresses and as medicine. As part of the tour, you will learn about the history of the area and take a boat onto the lake.
Explore the Cathedral of Puno in the main square. Take in the intricate facade and read about its historical significance.
Take a hike up Condor Hill. From the top, you will have incredible views over the city and across Lake Titicaca. Keep in mind there are about 500 steps to climb, but it is well worth it. If you’re short on time, you can also take a taxi to the summit.
Try local cuisine at the Mercado Central (Central Market). The prices are very affordable, so come hungry and be prepared to try anything that catches your eye. Everything from clothing stores to food vendors and local textiles is available.
Take a stroll down to the lake. If it’s a sunny day, the water will be sparkling. Bring your camera with you to take postcard-worthy photos of the pedalo boats (pedal boats) that line the store. It’s possible to hire them if you want to go for a ride.

How do I get from Arequipa to Puno?

From Arequipa to Puno, there are two main methods of transportation: bus and minivan.

Let’s have a look at the options below.

Option one: Bus

Prices start from $15

There are four companies that operate air-conditioned buses between Arequipa and Puno: Transzela, Sur Oriente, Turismo Mer and Cruz del Sur.

Given the number of companies to choose from, the departure times vary. Some make the six- to seven-hour trip during the daytime, while others operate overnight.

Your departure from Arequipa will either be from Terrapuerto de Arequipa or Arequipa Bus Station.

Depending on the operator, guests might have a bathroom on board and have access to reclining chairs, charger points, blankets, and snacks.

Note: Be sure to check the luggage allowances prior to booking as some companies allow up to 55 lbs (25 kg) while others only 33 lbs (15 kg).

Upon arrival in Puno, the bus will drop you off at Terminal Terrestre Puno or Puno Bus Station.

Option two: Minivan

Prices start from $72

For those who prefer to travel in the comfort of a smaller vehicle, Qhapaq Adventures offers a minivan transfer between Terminal Terrestre de Arequipa and Cajamarca 243 in Puno.

Keep in mind that unless you are traveling in a larger group and can hire the whole van, this is not a private transfer.

The journey typically takes 5.5 hours and has one departure per day at 8 a.m.

Guests can travel with 44 lbs (20 kg) of luggage per person and a small carry-on bag.

More details about the journey from Arequipa to Puno

The route from Arequipa to Puno is approximately 185 miles (298 km) and passes through the National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca.

Once departing, you will slowly start to ascend into the high-altitude plains. Keep your eyes peeled for the snow-capped El Misti and Chachani Volcanoes.

As you near Puno, the terrain flattens into wide, open plains dotted with small farming communities, local houses, and herds of alpacas and llamas.

Before your arrival, you may even be able to spot Lake Titicaca in the distance.

The best time to visit Puno

Due to the high elevation of Puno, the city experiences cool weather year-round, with high temperatures not exceeding 64°F (17.8°C).

You will want to pack some layers to keep you warm, particularly in the evenings.

For optimal conditions, plan your trip during the dry season from May to October. During the day, it will be sunny and dry, with temperatures ranging from 41°F to 64°F (5°C to 18°C).

While the wet season from November to April means the crowds will be fewer and the greenery lush in color, it also means that frequent rainfalls may disrupt your plans.

Pro tip: Visit in early February when Puno hosts the Fiesta de la Candelaria. Get ready for a vibrant lineup of dancers and musicians, guaranteeing a fantastic time full of energy and fun!

Where to travel after Puno

There are several places you can visit after a couple of nights in Puno.

If you wish to explore more of Peru, visit Cusco. From Puno to Cusco, it will take you at least five hours. As the gateway to Machu Picchu, this city is known for its vibrant culture and history.

If you’re ready to explore a different country, why not go from Puno to La Paz in Bolivia? Home to colonial buildings, museums, churches and vibrant shops, the journey by bus or minivan will take you anywhere from six to eleven hours.