You can get from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado by bus, private transfer, flight, or rental car.
From Lima’s busy avenues to the Sacred Valley’s winding roads, I’ve experienced Peru’s transportation first-hand.
Whether you’re heading to Puerto Maldonado for an Amazon lodge stay, wildlife spotting, or just a change of scenery, this guide explains all the ways to get there.
From my real travel experience and expert-verified info (thanks to our friends at Guatego), you’ll find exactly what suits your style of travel.
To keep it brief:
When I traveled from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado, I chose the overnight bus. It was comfortable, budget-friendly (USD 23), and saved me a night’s accommodation. If you’re short on time, flying is the fastest way (just 1 hour), while a private transfer or rental car offers a more scenic (and flexible) 9-hour journey through the jungle region of Peru.
Getting to Puerto Maldonado from Cusco
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | ~10 hrs | $23 to 28 |
| Private Transfer | ~9.5 hrs | – |
| Flight | 1 hr | – |
| Rental Car | ~9.5 hrs | – |
1. Bus
Journey Duration: 9-18 hours
Numerous direct buses travel through this remote region of Peru, departing during the day and at night.
You can choose from several buses and bus companies, all providing different comfort levels. You can opt for VIP or Reclining Seat Buses that take between 10 and 10.5 hours to make the journey.
The cheapest option is the 140 Reclining Seats Bus, which takes 10 hours to arrive in Puerto Maldonado and offers fewer amenities.
Driving through Peru can be spectacular, but for this journey, we recommend taking an overnight bus. This way, you’ll be most efficient with your time and get some rest during your travels!
140 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule
The table below displays the 140 reclining seats bus timetable with departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00pm | 07:00am | 10h | $23 |  |
160 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule
The table below displays the 160 reclining seats bus timetable with departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00pm | 07:00am | 10h | $28 | |
VIP Bus Schedule
The table below displays the VIP bus timetable with departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| Departure | Arrival | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:45pm | 07:15am | 10h 30m | $28 | |
2. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: 9 hours 20 minutes
The benefit of a private transfer is that you are driven directly to your destination in a comfortable vehicle, and the trip may take less time than a bus ride.
However, private transfers are rarely used since this option only pays off if you’re traveling with a bigger group.
The costs for a private transfer are similar to those of a flight. So, if you’re looking for comfort or a way to cut down on travel time, there might be a better alternative!
But if you still stick to this option, you can find and hire a car with a driver to take you on this trip!
3. Flight
Journey Duration: 1 hour
Fortunately, both locations have a nearby airport, making it very convenient to board a flight to reduce travel time. Three airlines currently run frequent domestic flights.
Avianca, LATAM Chile, and Star Peru have one daily flight that takes only one hour.
Prices for plane tickets always vary depending on the season, but it is common to find tickets starting from around USD 80.
The airport in Puerto Maldonado is 4 kilometers from the town, so you can take a taxi or other public transportation to get there after you land.
To ensure your flight, research flight availability and book your plane tickets in advance!
4. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 9 hours 20 minutes
You can also get a rental car and drive yourself if you’re up for an adventure and a beautiful road trip!
It’s a long road trip, and getting around Peruvian traffic as a tourist isn’t always easy.
However, the new highway linking the two places will make the journey delightful and last about nine hours.
Getting a rental car allows you to go at your own pace and frequently stop to enjoy the journey! Additionally, renting a car in Cusco is a cost-effective option, so consider it!
My Tip:
If you’re a light sleeper like me, go for the VIP night bus. It was surprisingly comfy and let me wake up near the jungle.
But if you’ve only got limited time, the 1-hour flight is unbeatable. Puerto Maldonado’s airport is small and close to town, so it’s smooth all around. Either way, arriving early gives you a full day to explore the Amazon basin.
Best day tours in Puerto Maldonado, Peru
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct bus?
Yes, multiple direct buses travel from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado daily. Four companies operate five types of buses.
Does Puerto Maldonado have an airport?
Yes, Puerto Maldonado is served by Puerto Maldonado International Airport, also known as Padre Aldamiz International Airport, located in Peru’s Madre de Dios Region.
How long is the flight?
The direct flight, which takes 58 minutes, is the fastest way to get from Cuzco Airport to Puerto Maldonado Airport.
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Universal Traveller — How to Get from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado
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