Exploring Bolivia: Travel Options From Puno To Bolivia

There are a few ways to get to Bolivia from Puno, Peru. The most popular route is via Yunguyo and Copacabana to La Paz, Bolivia. This route takes travellers through a series of villages on the lake's south shore before a scenic ferry ride across the Straits of Tiquina. From Copacabana, it is easy to visit the Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun), a 20km boat ride. Alternatively, a more direct route to La Paz is through Desaguadero, which straddles the border. This route passes Tiwanaku, the capital city of an empire whose monumental architecture predates the Inca. Both border crossings open around 8 am and close around 7:30 pm.

Travel by bus from Puno to Copacabana, Bolivia

To travel by bus from Puno to Copacabana, Bolivia, you can expect a journey of around 4 hours, depending on the time it takes to cross the border in Kasani. The distance between the two cities is 142 km. Buses from Puno to Copacabana depart daily between 6:00 am and 1:30 pm from Puno's bus terminal on Avenida Primero de Mayo. After clearing migration, you will arrive in Copacabana at the bus stop on Plaza Sucre, a few blocks from the port.

There are several bus companies offering direct trips from Puno to Copacabana, including Tour Peru, Trans Titicaca, Huayruro Tours, and Transzela. The majority of buses on this route are direct, and the border crossing takes place at the Kasani migratory office.

If you prefer, you can opt for a tourist bus with Bolivia Hop, which includes stops along the way. For example, you can visit the Sun Island on one of Bolivia Hop's private boats, a 4-hour round trip where you'll see ancestral terracing and ruins.

When travelling from Puno to Copacabana, it is important to be aware of the visa requirements and fees for both Peru and Bolivia, as you will be crossing an international border. Some bus companies may provide a guide on board to assist with the necessary paperwork.

Additionally, it is recommended to research the safety records of different bus companies before choosing one. You can do this by searching for the company name along with keywords such as "hijackings" or "accidents" to find relevant information.

Take a minivan from Puno to Desaguadero, Bolivia

Taking a minivan from Puno to Desaguadero, Bolivia, is a straightforward option for those looking to cross the border from Peru into Bolivia. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Getting to the Terminal Zonal de Puno

Firstly, make your way to the Terminal Zonal de Puno, the main transit hub for crossing into Bolivia. It is located about a 20-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas, or you can take a taxi for no more than 5 soles (€1.30). The Terminal Zonal is where you will find collectivos (shared taxis or minivans) and buses heading towards the border.

Purchasing Tickets

At the terminal, look for Gate #3, from where minivans towards Desaguadero depart. The cost is around 8 soles (€2.10), and the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours. You can also take a combi (a type of minibus) from the terminal zonal station, which costs US$4 and takes about 2.5 hours. Tickets can usually be purchased directly from the drivers or their assistants.

Border Crossing Process

When you arrive in Desaguadero, make your way to the Peruvian border post to get your exit stamp. Then, cross the bridge to the Bolivian side and go through immigration and customs procedures. Remember to set your clock one hour ahead, as Bolivia is one hour ahead of Peru. The Desaguadero border posts are typically open from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Peruvian time (8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bolivian time). It is recommended to have your passport, a valid tourist visa, and any other required documentation ready for a smooth border crossing experience.

Continuing to La Paz

After completing the border crossing, you can find transportation to La Paz on the Bolivian side. You can take a minibus (combi) or a shared taxi (trufi), which is faster but more expensive. The journey from Desaguadero to La Paz takes approximately 4 hours.

Remember to carry local currency (soles or bolivianos) for any additional fees or expenses, and be aware that border officials may charge unofficial or unauthorized fees. It is also a good idea to check for any blockades or travel advisories before embarking on your journey, as these can cause unexpected delays.

Visit the Sun and Moon Islands in Bolivia

To get to Bolivia from Puno, you can take a bus to La Paz, Bolivia. The trip can be done directly or with a stopover in Copacabana, a town on the other side of Lake Titicaca. From Copacabana, you can visit the famous Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) and Isla de la Luna (Island of the Moon) in Lake Titicaca. These islands are known for their fascinating Inca ruins and history.

Getting to La Paz from Puno

The trip from Puno to La Paz can be done via bus or tourist bus, with prices ranging from $15 to $49 USD. The direct trip takes around 5 to 15 hours, depending on the border crossing and migration procedures. Keep in mind that the border crossing usually closes at 7 PM.

Visiting the Sun and Moon Islands

Once you're in La Paz, you can book a tour to the Sun and Moon Islands, located in Lake Titicaca. These islands are known for their Inca ruins and historical significance. The Island of the Sun is the larger of the two and offers accommodations if you wish to spend the night. The Island of the Moon, on the other hand, is smaller but holds significant importance in Inca history.

Tour Options

There are various tour options available, ranging from day trips to 2-day excursions. A day trip to the Sun Island from La Paz will cost you around $245 per person, while a day trip to the Moon Island is priced at $172 per person. A 2-day tour of both islands via Sicuani is priced at $333 per person. This includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and an English-speaking guide.

Exploring the Islands

On the Island of the Sun, you can visit the Pilcocaina temple, the Inca grand stairs, and the three fountains of eternal youth. The Island of the Moon houses the temple of the virgins and offers breathtaking views of the Cordillera. Both islands provide a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Inca Empire.

So, if you're in Puno and looking to explore the Sun and Moon Islands in Bolivia, a bus trip to La Paz is your best option. From there, you can book a tour that suits your preferences and budget. The journey will be an unforgettable experience, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Walk from Yunguyo to the Bolivian border

Walking from Yunguyo to the Bolivian border is a straightforward process, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• The drive from Puno to Yunguyo takes about 3-4 hours. You can take a bus or a colectivo, which are shared taxis or vans that leave when full.
• At Yunguyo, you will need to get off the bus and walk to the Peruvian immigration desk. Have your passport ready to get your exit stamp.
• Walk underneath the small arch that separates Peru and Bolivia.
• After entering Bolivia, you will find the Bolivian immigration office on your left. Present all the necessary forms and documents, including your passport.
• Your bus will be waiting somewhere near the customs office. From here, you can continue your journey to Copacabana or La Paz.

It is important to note that the border crossing usually takes around 30 minutes, but it can be longer if there are any delays or unexpected closures. Make sure to carry your passport and any other required documents with you. The border crossing is generally hassle-free, but it is always good to be prepared for any potential challenges or delays.

Take a collectivo from the border to Copacabana

Once you've crossed the border, you'll find that there are usually a number of collectivos waiting a little further down the road, all heading to Copacabana. This part of the journey should take around 30 minutes.

The collectivos are usually white minivans and cost 3B (€0.40). The 'car' collectivos cost 4B (€0.50) but fill up faster due to having fewer seats. You may have to wait around 20 minutes for these.

Be aware that when you approach the collectivos, the drivers may try to overcharge you. One traveller reports that they were quoted 20B (€2.50) for two people for the journey.

Once you're in Copacabana, you can take a bus to La Paz. There are several buses a day and the journey takes around five hours.

Frequently asked questions