Explore the ever-changing landscapes of La Raya Pass while on a sightseeing bus tour leaving from Cusco or Puno and making stops along the way to historic sites such as a magnificent 16th-century church at the very top of the Andean plateau, Raqchi’s Wiracocha archeological site, and the pre-Inca museum at Pukara. If you have more time, take a multi-day tour that will allow you to go deeper into the culture, history, and nature of Peru and Bolivia, past soaring mountain peaks and shimmering lakes, and visiting Lake Titicaca and major UNESCO–listed treasures. These longer tours last from three to ten days.
La Raya Pass is located at the center of the route from Puno to Cusco. The best way to reach the pass is during an organized tour that makes the way before the cities.
Generally, the most pleasant time to visit Puno is from February through November, when the days are spring-like with virtually no rain. December and January are typically the rainiest months. To make the most of your trip, visit Puno or Cusco from late February to early March to experience the festivities of Carnival. Carnival is held before Lent and features parades, indigenous dances, marching bands, and lots of street parties.
While in Puno, make a stop at the city’s Andean baroque cathedral located on the western side of Plaza de Armas in the center of the city. The 18th-century church was built atop an ancient Inca ceremonial site called Supay Kancha, or Circle of the Devil. Inside is an impressive marble altar and exquisite artworks such as the two paintings featuring two venerated icons in Peru, La Virgen de Los Remedios (The Lady of Remedies) and El Senor del Quinario (The Lord of the Bullet).