Arequipa to Puno: A scenic 6-Hour Bus Guide

Introduction

If you’re planning to continue your journey toward Lake Titicaca, Copacabana, or Bolivia, taking the bus from Arequipa to Puno is the most practical option. There are no direct flights to Puno itself, and flying would mean landing in Juliaca anyway, then continuing by road. Taxis are possible but far too expensive for the distance.

That leaves you with the most common solution: the Arequipa to Puno bus. It’s a long ride, usually advertised as around six hours, but in reality it often takes longer. Still, it’s a classic overland journey in southern Peru, crossing the Altiplano and giving you a first taste of the high plateau landscape.

This route is especially popular if Puno is just a stop on your way to Copacabana or further toward Uyuni. The Arequipa to Puno ride is not the most glamorous bus ride in South America, but it gets the job done — and it’s part of the adventure.

If you’re comfortable with long-distance buses and flexible with timing, the bus to Puno is a perfectly reasonable choice.

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Where to Stay in Arequipa

Staying near the historic center will make your time in Arequipa much more enjoyable. Most of the main sights, cafes, and walking routes are within easy walking distance, and you’ll spend less time in traffic than if you stay farther out.

• Plaza Central: A straightforward and well-located choice right near Plaza de Armas. Rooms are simple, clean, and perfect if you want to be in the heart of the city without spending too much.
• Katari Hotel at Plaza de Armas: This hotel feels a bit more comfortable and inviting, with a great location overlooking the main square. It’s a lovely base for exploring Arequipa’s historic streets by foot and makes early mornings or evening strolls effortless.
• CIRQA – Relais & Châteaux: If you want to treat yourself, this beautifully restored hotel offers calm, refined rooms and excellent service. It’s perfect for relaxing after busy days visiting the monastery, markets, or a scenic trip out to the canyon.

Tip: Wherever you stay, choose a place close to Plaza de Armas if possible. Arequipa’s traffic and pollution increase quickly just a few streets away from the historic core, so being central makes everything easier — especially if you only have a couple of days here.

Here are all your accommodation options in Arequipa

Getting to the Bus Terminal in Arequipa

On departure day from Arequipa to Puno, plan to reach Arequipa’s main bus terminal (Terminal Terrestre) by taxi. It’s located outside the historic center, and walking there isn’t realistic with luggage. From most central accommodations, the ride takes around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.

Booking a taxi through your hotel or hostel the day before is the easiest option and avoids any stress in the morning. Expect to pay around 10–15 soles, which is very reasonable for the distance.

Try to arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure. Even if your ticket is booked online, most bus companies require you to check in at their counter to confirm your seat and sometimes reissue a paper ticket.

Inside the terminal, you’ll find bathrooms, small shops, and food stalls, but nothing fancy. If you want snacks or water for the ride, it’s best to buy them beforehand or as soon as you arrive.

Tip: Don’t arrive too early. Unlike airports, buses here leave on time, but waiting around the terminal for hours isn’t particularly comfortable.

The Bus Ride from Arequipa to Puno

Most Arequipa to Puno buses leave in the morning or late morning. You’ll find several companies at the terminal, ranging from basic to slightly more comfortable options. Seat types are usually labeled semi-cama or cama. If possible, choose cama seats for the extra legroom, especially at this altitude.

Once on board, the journey heads southeast toward the Altiplano. The landscapes slowly change from dry volcanic terrain around Arequipa to wide, flat plains dotted with small villages and herds of animals. It’s a long ride, but visually interesting if you grab a window seat.

Buses from Arequipa to Puno often pass through Juliaca, a larger transport hub, before continuing to Puno. This is sometimes advertised as a direct route, but brief stops are common. Travel time is officially around 6 hours, though delays of 1–2 hours aren’t unusual.

Facilities on board vary a lot. Some Arequipa to Puno buses have toilets and basic service, others don’t. Air conditioning can be unreliable, and temperatures inside may swing from cold to uncomfortably warm.

Tip: Bring layers, water, snacks, and patience. This isn’t a luxury ride, but it’s manageable if you’re prepared.

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Arrival in Puno

Arequipa to Puno buses usually arrive at Puno’s main bus terminal in the early evening, though delays are common. Don’t plan anything time-sensitive right after arrival — this route rarely runs exactly on schedule.

From the terminal, the easiest way to reach your accommodation is by taxi. Rides into the city center or near Plaza de Armas are short and inexpensive, usually around 5–10 soles. If you’re arriving after dark, taking a taxi is strongly recommended rather than walking with luggage.

Puno itself feels very different from Arequipa. It’s more functional than charming, and most travelers use it as a gateway to Lake Titicaca or as a transit stop toward Bolivia. That said, the main square area has a few decent restaurants and is convenient for exchanging money or grabbing dinner.

After a long bus ride from Arequipa to Puno at altitude, the best plan is simple: check in, eat something warm, and rest. The combination of travel time, heat on the bus, and elevation can be surprisingly draining.

Tip: If Puno is just a stopover, one night is usually enough before continuing toward Copacabana or Lake Titicaca tours.

Our Favorite Hotels in Puno

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Hotel Hacienda Plaza de Armas

Uros Samaraña Uta Lodge

Amalia Titicaca Lodge

See all available hotels in Puno

Tickets, Prices & Timetable (Arequipa to Puno Bus)

Booking a bus from Arequipa to Puno is straightforward and can be done either online or directly at the terminal. Buying in advance is recommended during high season, but outside of that, same-day tickets are usually available.

You’ll find several local companies operating the Arequipa to Puno route. Comfort levels vary, even within the same company, so don’t expect luxury. What matters most is choosing a cama seat if available.

Typical prices

• Semi-cama: around 60–80 soles
• Cama / Inca Suite–style seats: around 100-120 soles

Prices depend on the company, seat type, and time of departure.

The timetable changes depending the season but here is an idea: 12h30, 14h00, 20h00, 21h15, 22h00, 22h15, 22h30, 23h00, 23h30.

Advertised time is around 6 hours, but in reality, expect 7 to 8 hours, including traffic, stops, and delays — especially if the bus from Arequipa to Puno passes through Juliaca.

Even with an online ticket from Arequipa to Puno, plan to check in at the counter 30–45 minutes before departure to confirm your seat and receive a printed ticket.

Where to Stay in Puno

Where you stay in Puno really depends on how much time you have and what kind of experience you’re after. You can either stay in town near Plaza de Armas for convenience or choose a unique stay on Lake Titicaca for something truly memorable.

• Hotel Hacienda Plaza de Armas: If you’re only spending one night in Puno, this is a practical and comfortable choice. Located right on Plaza de Armas, it makes it easy to walk around, grab dinner, exchange money, or catch early buses and tours the next day.
• Uros Samaraña Uta Lodge (unique lake experience): Staying here means sleeping on Lake Titicaca itself, near the famous floating Uros islands. You trade city comfort for a peaceful, authentic experience surrounded by water and silence. It’s ideal if you want to slow down and experience life on the lake rather than rush through Puno.
• Amalia Titicaca Lodge (luxury on the lake): This is the most comfortable way to experience Lake Titicaca. The lodge combines beautiful views, privacy, and excellent service, making it perfect if you want a special stay after long bus rides and high-altitude travel.

Tip: If you’re arriving late or leaving early, stay in town. If you have an extra day, spending a night on Lake Titicaca is absolutely worth it and one of the most unique experiences in Peru.

Here are all your accommodation options in Puno