Bus

The intercity bus system in Peru is extensive, and fares are quite reasonable. Remember, however, that mountain ranges often sit between cities, and trips can be daunting. It's best to use buses for shorter trips, such as between Lima and Ica or between Cusco and Puno. That way, you can begin and end your trip during daylight hours. If you stick with one of the recommended companies—such as Cruz del Sur, Ormeño, Inka Express, or CIVA—you can usually expect a comfortable journey.

Second-class buses (servicio normal) tend to be cramped and overcrowded, whereas the pricier first-class service (primera clase) is more relaxing and much more likely to arrive on schedule.

Bus fares are substantially cheaper in Peru than they are in North America or Europe. Timetables and tickets can be checked and bought in advance online at Redbus (www.redbus.pe) or Bus Tickets Peru (www.busticketsperu.com), but it's always cheaper to go to any bus terminal and ask around there. Competing companies serve all major and many minor routes, so it can pay to shop around if you're on an extremely tight budget, and there's always a bus going somewhere. Always speak to the counter clerk, as competition may mean fares are cheaper than the official price posted on the fare board.

For the 15-plus-hour journey between Lima and Arequipa, Cruz del Sur offers different price tiers, depending on how far the seat reclines, with first-floor seats being more comfortable. Inka Express, which promotes itself to tourists rather than the local market, uses large, comfortable coaches for the popular eight-hour journey between Cusco and Puno. Tickets are US$50, and the trip includes snacks, lunch, and guided visits at points of interest along the way; entrance fees for the sites are not included. For those who like flexibility and having everything organized, Peru Hop is another tourist-oriented bus company offering hop-on-hop-off bus trips between Lima and Cusco. You can choose how much time you want to stay at each stop. Buses have English-speaking guides and also stop at sights en route; they also connect to La Paz in Bolivia via Puno. Tickets start at US$129 for a three-day, four-stop itinerary between Lima and Cusco.

In general, tickets are sold at bus-company offices and at travel agencies. Be prepared to pay with cash, as credit cards aren't always accepted or incur higher charges, although you can typically order and pay by credit card on the Cruz del Sur website. Reservations aren't necessary except for trips to top destinations during high season. Summer weekends and major holidays are the busiest times. You should arrive at bus stations early for travel during peak seasons.