Expert: Robin Slater - 10/19/2009

Question
Dear Robin,
I am an 18 year old on the beginning of my gap year. I am currently living with my uncle. I leave to return back to the UK early December. Before I do leave; however, I want to go and see Machu Picchu down in Peru...the problem is getting down to Cuzco where the trail begins...my only option is to take a bus/busses down there, but searching around for them on the internet has only produced one relatively hopeful site however prices and leaving times are not specified...Basically I was wondering if you knew of any bus companies that can get me from Quito to Cuzco and back again.
Any help is much appreciated.
Sincere regards,
      Josh

Answer
Good evening Josh,

First I want to apologize for the delay in responding.  I have just returned from a holiday and getting caught up on emails.

There are a couple of bus companies that I believe run the round Quito - Lima, and these being Ormenea Internacional' 'Rutas de America'and 'El Panamericano'.  You want be able to go directly from Quito to Cuzco, but have to break it down to: Quito - Lima, and then Lima - Cuzco (this leg has numerous companies and wide variety of schedules).

Rutas de América
(02) 2 548 142 / (02) 2 503 611 / (02) 2 503 612 or email: rauio@impsat.net.ec
IN QUITO: calle Selva Alegre Oe1-70 y Av. 10 de Agosto (Tel: 02 2 503 611)
IN GUAYAQUIL: calle Los Ríos 3021 y Letamendi (Tel: 02 2 452 844)

Rough (prices may have changed)cost to Lima is about $75.00 (taking about 32 hours)


Panamericana Internacional
Quito: Ave. Colón 852
Tel. (02) 2 557 133

Rough (prices may have changed)cost to Lima is about $60.00 (taking about 38 hours)

Hope this helps!

Robin