Traveling From Cusco To Puerto Maldonado

One of the most popular destinations in all of Peru, Cusco is a really popular place for travelers to head to. Here we can explore the Sacred Valley, see ancient Inca ruins and enjoy the Andean cultures.

Given the proximity of Puerto Maldonado from Cusco, it makes sense to visit the Amazon Jungle after you have finished seeing everything around Cusco.

In this guide we’ll explore how you can travel from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado. This includes your various options, and why some are better suited for different people.

The Different Ways Of Getting From Cusco To Puerto Maldonado 

Let’s explore the two main ways you can get from the sierra down to the Amazon Jungle, as well as which option is best for you.

The Overnight Bus From Cusco To Puerto Maldonado

Taking the bus is by far the most popular option of getting from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado, and is relatively simple too.

Several companies operate the route daily such as Palomino, Maldonado Tours and Grupo Iberia. They all depart from within the main bus terminal within Cusco, where you can easily buy a ticket there on the day or the day before. You can also buy your tickets online using sites such as RedBus or BusBus. 

The bus takes roughly 12 hours and leaves in the evening, so you will arrive into Puerto Maldonado in the early morning. The cost of a one-way bus ticket is between $15-30.

It’s also important to know that buses connect Puerto Maldonado with many other regions, such as the neighboring country of Brazil. If you are thinking of arriving this way, then you can learn more about how to make the journey.

The Flight From Cusco To Puerto Maldonado

Flying is a much more straightforward and simple way of getting from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado.

LATAM Airlines currently offers one flight daily at this time of writing, which cuts your travel time down to just one hour. The Cusco airport is located close to the city center, so it’s just a case of taking a taxi or colectivo there from where you are staying.

A one-way direct flight costs roughly $120 without baggage included. You can also find a cheaper flight which involves an extra transit in Lima. Despite the geographic inconvenience (as you are flying back on yourself), you will save money and in total it will usually take between 4-6 hours.

Which Method Of Travel From Cusco To Puerto Maldonado Is Best?

It really comes down to you, your own preferences and your budget.

Those who want to save money will definitely want to take the bus. It’s also ideal since you will travel through the night, where you will save daylight hours and also not need to spend extra for accommodation that night. You won’t see any particularly beautiful landscapes given it’s dark outside, however the buses are reliable and comfortable.

If you prefer convenience and don’t mind spending more, then you can choose between a direct flight as well as the option with the layover in Lima. You will be traveling earlier in the afternoon, meaning you won’t arrive at awkward hours and can hit the ground running in Puerto Maldonado. You can also see some really stunning Andean peaks and the winding Amazon River when flying from above (it’s definitely worth getting a window seat for this journey).

Traveling From Cusco To Puerto Maldonado

And that’s all for this guide on how to travel from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado.

Both of these cities are gateways to amazing natural landscapes, and as such are must-inclusions on your itinerary around Peru. As we’ve seen you will have two main options to make the journey, and which one you pick really depends on you and your own preferences.

Are you still wondering what to do in Puerto Maldonado? Be sure to read our Ultimate Tambopata Jungle Guide to find out what you can see and do during your visit here.