High Andes

Cusco to Puerto Maldonado

The 10 hour bus journey from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado offers up some of the most beautiful scenery in this part of Peru.

Expect waterfalls cascading from cliffs of cloud forest, locals grazing flocks on unprotected mountainsides, flowing rivers, unguarded drops and astonishing views into the High Andes.

Palolimo tours offer the journey, on the lower deck of the bus in a fully reclining seat, for 70 soles, a bargain. This includes food, pillow, blanket and drinks.

It's a breathtaking experience...

Leaving Cusco - Giles Crosse 

Giles Crosse

Unguarded drops and beautiful vistas - Giles Crosse

Giles Crosse

Herding in the High Andes - Giles Crosse

It is quite astonishing that people still make a living in this harsh terrain from herding and traditional ways of life. So divorced from what we perceive to be modern realities and yet living and breathing, though the majority of today's Peruvians seek wealth and a better way of living in Lima.

Lonely sign - High Andes - Giles Crosse

Giles Crosse

Day's end - Giles Crosse

Be aware Peruvian buses are subject to occasional stop and grab raids where thiefs relieve tourists of their belongings. Avoid cheap operators and travelling during or after rainstorms, when roads can be washed out and delays counted in days.