Table of Content
Basic information
| Data | Value |
|---|---|
| Distance | 1,165 km |
| Duration | 20-24 hours |
| Prices | S/30-180 soles |
| Maximum altitude | 4,818 meters |
Best companies
| Company | Category | Price | Services | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cruz del Sur | Premium | S/80-180 | Beds, WiFi, food | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Oltursa | Premium | S/70-150 | Semi-bed, snacks | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Wari Palomino | Standard | S/60-120 | Semi-bed | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Molina Union | Economical | S/40-80 | Basic | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Main schedules
| Departure Lima | Arrival Cusco | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 PM | 4:00-6:00 PM +1 | Best time |
| 9:00 PM | 5:00-7:00 PM +1 | Popular |
| 10:00 PM | 6:00-8:00 PM +1 | Acceptable |
By traveler type
| Profile | Company | Service | Price | Why |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First time | Cruz del Sur | Beds | S/100-150 | Safety + comfort |
| Backpacker | Molina Union | Semi-bed | S/50-80 | Economical |
| Family | Cruz del Sur | Beds | S/120-180 | Comfort for kids |
| Low budget | San Jerónimo | Economical | S/35-60 | Cheapest |
What to bring (essential)
| Mandatory | Recommended | For altitude |
|---|---|---|
| ID/Passport | Pillow | Warm coat |
| Cash | Snacks | Water |
| Medicines | Charger | Sorojchi Pills |
Quick comparison
| Aspect | Bus | Plane |
|---|---|---|
| Price | S/30-180 | S/150-400 |
| Time | 22 hours | 3 hours |
| Altitude | Gradual | Sudden |
| Luggage | Unlimited | Limited |
Recommendation by budget
| Budget | Best Option | Total Price |
|---|---|---|
| Very tight | Molina Union economical | S/45-70 |
| Medium | Oltursa semi-bed | S/80-120 |
| Comfortable | Cruz del Sur beds | S/110-180 |
Key tips
Do
- Leave 8:00-9:00 PM (best time)
- Bring warm clothing for the highlands
- Buy tickets 2-3 days in advance
- Choose Cruz del Sur or Oltursa
Avoid
- Very cheap companies (less than S/40)
- Traveling during the rainy season without warm clothing
- Bringing too much carry-on luggage
- Eating heavy meals before the trip
Advantages vs disadvantages
Advantages
- 70% cheaper than flying
- Gradual acclimatization to altitude
- No luggage restrictions
- Unique landscapes
Disadvantages
- 22 hours of travel
- Discomfort for sleeping
- Altitude can cause discomfort
- Arriving tired
Final recommendation
Best option: Cruz del Sur beds at 8:00 PM (S/100-150)
- Most reliable company
- Schedule allows for a late arrival rested
- Gradual acclimatization ideal for Cusco
- Includes food and amenities
