Are you planning a trip to Peru?
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is how to get from one stunning destination to another. Should you go with the well-established and reliable Cruz del Sur, known for its extensive bus network? Or does the flexibility and added perks of Peru Hop’s hop-on, hop-off service better match your travel style?
Let’s break it down.
You’ll want to think about a few things: cost, safety, comfort, and how much flexibility you need in your travel schedule. Cruz del Sur is perfect if you’re looking for a smooth, straightforward ride with set times and routes, while Peru Hop gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with the added bonus of guided experiences along the way.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the key differences between these two options so you can figure out which one is right for you. Ready to make a choice that fits your adventure?
| Feature | Cruz Del Sur | Peru Hop |
| Bus Fleet | Large fleet with various service classes (Cruzero, Excluciva, Sofá Cama) | Smaller fleet focused on semi-bed seats and onboard comfort |
| Routes | Extensive domestic network (100+ cities) and international routes to Chile, Argentina, Colombia | Covers main tourist corridor (Lima, Paracas, Huacachina, Arequipa, Cusco, Puno) with border crossing to Bolivia |
| Unique Stops | Limited to major cities and standard bus terminals | Includes “hidden gems” like Paracas National Reserve, Pisco Vineyard, and Nazca Lines viewing tower |
| Onboard Experience | Varies by service class; top-tier Cruzero Suite offers 160° reclining seats, individual screens, and gourmet meals | Consistency across fleet with semi-bed seats, USB ports, and bilingual guides; focus on social atmosphere |
| Flexibility | Traditional point-to-point ticketing with minimal hop-on, hop-off options | Hop-on, hop-off passes valid for up to 1 year; allows spontaneous itinerary changes |
| Safety Protocols | Rigorous driver checks, GPS monitoring, and video surveillance; UV air filtration and disinfection in select services | GPS tracking, speed monitoring, and emergency protocols; follows Peruvian health regulations with sanitization and mask policies |
| Pricing | Higher base fares with variable pricing based on route, service class, and demand; discounts for advance purchase | Lower base fares with promotions and hop-on, hop-off passes offering greater value; dynamically priced based on route popularity |
For more flexibility in your Peru travels, choose Peru Hop, their hop-on, hop-off service that lets you explore at your own pace while visiting the best spots in the country. Book your pass today and start your adventure.
Peru Hop is a unique hop-on hop-off bus service designed for tourists who want to explore Peru at their own pace.
Unlike traditional bus companies that simply transport you from one destination to another, Peru Hop offers a more flexible and immersive travel experience.
It connects major destinations such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, Paracas, Huacachina, Puno, and extends into Bolivia with stops in La Paz and Copacabana.
Key features of Peru Hop include:
For example, Peru Hop offers a free walking tour in downtown Lima, a guided tour of the Paracas National Reserve, and a stop at the Nazca Lines viewing tower.
By including these activities in the ticket price, Peru Hop aims to provide its passengers a more comprehensive and enjoyable travel experience.
When deciding on transportation in Peru, many travelers are torn between specialized services like Peru Hop and the more traditional public buses. Both options have their benefits, but they cater to different types of travel experiences.
Let’s break it down by convenience, safety, and comfort to help you decide which one suits your needs best.
One of the biggest perks of Peru Hop is its door-to-door service. They pick you up directly from your accommodation and drop you off at your next destination, eliminating the need to navigate unfamiliar bus terminals or figure out how to get to your next stop. It’s all part of the experience we offer.
In comparison, public buses are more frequent but require you to get to bus terminals, which can be tricky, especially with luggage or when navigating unfamiliar cities. For solo travelers or those unfamiliar with local bus stations, this can be a hassle.
With Peru Hop, everything goes through their all-in-one booking system—one pass covers your entire journey. Public buses, however, require purchasing separate tickets for each segment of your trip, often sending you to different stations or forcing you to book through multiple websites.
When it comes to safety, Peru Hop go the extra mile to ensure passengers feel secure. They avoid night routes in high-risk areas and implement safety features across their fleet. Its experienced bilingual guides are always on board, ready to assist you whenever needed.
Public buses in Peru vary in safety. While major companies like Cruz del Sur are reputable, smaller operators may not follow the same strict maintenance schedules. Plus, some public bus terminals are known for petty theft and scams targeting tourists.
With Peru Hop, you won’t have to wait at bus stations late at night or take taxis through unfamiliar areas. We provide door-to-door service, ensuring a safer journey, especially for solo and female travelers.
Comfort is key when traveling, and while both Peru Hop and premium public bus services offer quality options, they do so in different ways:
While public buses may provide great comfort, Peru Hop combines comfort with experience, making the journey itself a part of the adventure rather than just a means of getting from one place to another.
When choosing between Cruz del Sur and Peru Hop for traveling in Peru, you should understand their key differences to select the option that best aligns with your travel preferences.
Cruz del Sur: Cruz del Sur is a traditional Peruvian bus company with fixed schedules and routes. Travelers purchase individual tickets for specific destinations and departure times. This model suits those with a set itinerary and who prefer point-to-point travel without additional stops.
Peru Hop: Peru Hop offers a hop-on, hop-off service designed for maximum flexibility. You can disembark at various stops, stay as long as you like, and rejoin the journey on subsequent buses. This approach is perfect for travelers looking for a customizable itinerary and the freedom to explore destinations at their own pace.
Cruz del Sur: Provides extensive coverage across Peru, including major cities and regions such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, and extends to international destinations like Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, and Argentina. This wide network is ideal for travelers aiming to reach various locations across this South American country and beyond.
Peru Hop: We focus primarily on popular tourist destinations between Lima and Cusco, including Paracas, Huacachina, Nazca, Arequipa, and Puno. We also extend into Bolivia with stops in La Paz and Copacabana. While Peru Hops’ coverage is more limited compared to Cruz del Sur, they offer unique stops and experiences that traditional bus services typically don’t.
Cruz del Sur: Known for comfortable buses equipped with reclining seats, personal entertainment systems, and onboard meals, especially in higher service classes. The focus is on providing a comfortable journey from one point to another.
Peru Hop: While Peru Hop also offers comfortable seating and onboard amenities, the emphasis is on the experience. This includes guided tours, informative commentary, and organized stops at popular attractions along the route.
Cruz del Sur: As a large public bus company, it adheres to standard safety protocols. However, there have been reports of incidents such as bus hijackings on certain routes, particularly when crossing the Andes between Lima and Cusco.
Peru Hop: Peru Hop prioritizes your safety with measures like avoiding high-risk routes and offering door-to-door service. Passengers don’t have to navigate potentially unsafe bus terminals or areas, providing peace of mind, especially for solo and female travelers.
Cruz del Sur: Offers a more traditional travel experience, where interactions with fellow passengers are minimal, making it suitable for those who prefer solitude during their journey.
Peru Hop: Peru Hop encourages a social atmosphere, attracting like-minded travelers and providing opportunities to meet others. This is a great option for solo travelers or anyone looking to connect with fellow tourists during their travels.
Cruz del Sur: The cost of traveling with Cruz Del Sur or a hop-on hop-off service will depend on your specific itinerary and the level of service you choose. Cruz Del Sur offers different seat categories, such as economy, VIP, and bed seats, with prices varying accordingly. They also have frequent promotions and discounts, which can make their services more affordable.
Peru Hop: Peru Hop’s hop-on, hop-off service involves purchasing a single pass for your entire journey. While the upfront cost might be higher than a traditional bus ticket, the value comes from the included experiences and flexibility provided. The cost is an investment in a richer, more customizable travel experience.
So, if you prefer a structured, cost-effective, and straightforward mode of transportation with extensive route options, Cruz del Sur may be the appropriate choice.
Conversely, if you value flexibility, added experiences, enhanced safety measures, and a social travel environment, Peru Hop will better meet your needs.
A hop-on hop-off bus service like Peru Hop offers unique advantages for travelers exploring Peru’s diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks. Here are the main benefits that make this mode of travel especially appealing:
One of the biggest draws of a hop-on hop-off bus service is the freedom to design your journey.
You can hop off at any destination, stay as long as you like, and hop back on whenever you want to continue.
This flexibility is perfect for travelers who want the freedom to spend extra time in places they find especially captivating without being locked into a rigid schedule.
Hop-on hop-off services like Peru Hop are carefully planned to include the must-see attractions and hidden gems that typical bus services often overlook.
From the stunning beaches of Paracas and the Huacachina desert oasis to the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, this service takes you directly to Peru’s highlights, saving you the hassle of coordinating individual tickets and routes.
Each bus comes with knowledgeable guides who speak English and Spanish. These guides provide insightful commentary, answer questions, and share tips on each destination, helping you get the most out of your experience.
They also offer advice on local food, cultural customs, and safety, ensuring you feel informed and comfortable as you travel.
With hop-on hop-off services, safety and convenience are prioritized. Services like Peru Hop include door-to-door pickups and drop-offs, so you don’t have to navigate unfamiliar bus stations or arrange additional local transport to reach your accommodations.
This feature enhances safety and makes it easier for you to settle in quickly at each new destination.
Hop-on hop-off services often collaborate with local businesses to provide discounts on accommodations, restaurants, and activities.
These partnerships allow you to save money, giving you access to experiences and services at reduced rates. Over the course of your trip, these savings can add up, making it a cost-effective way to travel.
Traveling with a hop-on hop-off service means you’ll likely meet other like-minded travelers along the way, which is especially beneficial for solo travelers.
Peru Hop’s setup creates a social environment where you can make friends, share travel stories, and even find travel companions for the next leg of your journey.
Hop-on hop-off services manage most logistics, from planning the routes to securing safe, comfortable buses and organizing guided tours.
This hassle-free approach allows you to focus on enjoying the journey instead of worrying about transportation and accommodation arrangements.
Overall, the hop-on hop-off bus service in Peru offers a balanced blend of flexibility, safety, and convenience, making it ideal for travelers who want an immersive, well-rounded experience in this captivating country.
Peru Hop offers a flexible and comprehensive way to explore Peru’s diverse destinations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to booking and using their services:
The first step is choosing your Peru Hop travel pass. Think about the destinations you want to visit—Lima, Cusco, Paracas, Puno—and how much time you’d like to spend at each stop.
They also offer various passes that cover major tourist spots as well as some exclusive, lesser-known gems.
Each pass gives you unlimited hop-on, hop-off access, allowing you to stay at each destination for as long as you wish. This single ticket covers all your bus travel, and it’s your key to a fully customizable itinerary.
Once you book your travel pass, we’ll give you login access to our Peru Hop app. This app becomes your personal control center throughout the journey.
Through the app, you can choose your departure date, pick-up locations, and set up any preferences for your trip. You’ll have full control over your travel plans, allowing you to adjust every detail as needed.
The app makes it easy to manage when, where, and how long you want to spend at each stop on your journey.
Once logged in, you can plan every aspect of your trip—or go with the flow. If you prefer everything organized ahead of time, you can schedule all your bus dates and times in advance.
If spontaneity is more your style, you can hop on the first bus and decide where to go and how long to stay along the way.
One of the best features of Peru Hop is that you can change any bus departure up to 12 hours before it leaves, offering you maximum flexibility.
You’ll be picked you up directly from your hotel or Airbnb, so there’s no need to navigate bus terminals or take taxis.
As you travel between destinations, Peru Hop’s buses make short stops at hidden gems and local attractions that traditional buses might miss. These stops offer a chance to experience a side of Peru that most tourists overlook, from secret viewpoints to lesser-known historical sites.
Onboard, you’ll find other like-minded travelers and an English-speaking local host who shares fascinating stories about Peru, adding depth to your journey.
With Peru Hop, you’re in control of your pace. Their daily buses let you hop off anywhere and stay for as long as you want.
Want a quicker experience? Follow their recommended itinerary which will guide you to key attractions in an efficient timeframe.
For a slower, more immersive journey, feel free to stay extra days at the destinations you love. With buses running daily, you have the flexibility to tailor your experience as you go.
Another great perk of Peru Hop is that you’re free to arrange your own accommodations and activities. You’re not restricted to pre-selected hotels or tours.
You can book your accommodations directly through the app, consult with your onboard host for recommendations, or use other booking platforms.
This flexibility lets you choose from various accommodations and activities to fit your budget and travel style.
Yes, Peru Hop is safe. Traveling in a new country can come with concerns, so Peru Hop takes special measures to ensure your peace of mind throughout your journey.
Here’s some things that make Peru Hop the safer option for bus travel in Peru.
Peru Hop’s drivers are highly trained professionals who are well-versed in navigating Peru’s roads and traffic conditions. They have extensive experience handling the country’s unique challenges.
All their vehicles undergo regular checks to ensure they’re in top condition. We also equip them with the necessary safety features, including seat belts, fire extinguishers, and other essential equipment to keep you safe during your travels.
Emergencies can happen at any time, so Peru Hop has set up a 24/7 emergency support line. If you ever need assistance, you can contact them at any point during your journey and they’ll be able to hel.
Bilingual hosts not only enhance your travel experience but also are also able to assist in case of emergencies.
Planning your Peru itinerary with a hop-on hop-off bus service like Peru Hop allows you to explore this vibrant country on your terms.
Unlike traditional tours, this option allows you to linger at places that capture your interest while skipping areas that might not align with your travel goals.
Here’s how to effectively plan your itinerary with Peru Hop and make the most of your journey.
Before diving into the logistics, consider what you want to experience in Peru.
Are you captivated by ancient history, like Machu Picchu?
Or perhaps you’re drawn to the stunning landscapes of Huacachina and the cultural vibes of Cusco.
Peru Hop covers key destinations such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, Paracas, Huacachina, and Puno, along with some stops in Bolivia like La Paz and Copacabana. You can choose a pass that covers all your preferred locations by identifying your must-see spots and aligning them with Peru Hop’s route options.
Once you’ve decided on your destinations, select a Peru Hop travel pass that fits your itinerary.
Each pass offers different routes and flexibility, so think about how long you plan to spend at each location.
Some passes cover shorter routes for those with limited time, while others allow extensive travel across Peru and Bolivia.
Since each pass includes unlimited hop-on, hop-off access, you can adjust your stay at each stop to match your pace and interests.
After booking your pass, you’ll receive access to the Peru Hop app, essential for managing your itinerary.
In the app, you can select your travel dates, pick-up points, and even reserve seats for each leg of your journey.
If you have a tight schedule, book your dates in advance to ensure a smooth, well-planned trip.
Alternatively, if you’re open to a more spontaneous adventure, simply use the app to book as you go, adjusting your plans depending on your experiences and interests at each stop.
One of the unique perks of Peru Hop is the exclusive stops it makes along the route—places that typical tourists often miss.
As you travel between main destinations, the bus will pause at hidden gems, from secluded viewpoints to local attractions that aren’t crowded with tourists.
The itinerary includes these stops, allowing you to experience a more authentic side of Peru without additional planning.
Your onboard guide will also share stories and local insights, adding depth to your journey.
With Peru Hop’s daily bus departures, you can extend or shorten your stay at any destination, offering maximum flexibility.
This flexibility is useful if you discover unexpected highlights or want to join additional tours at any stop along the way.
While Peru Hop provides transport, accommodations are entirely up to you, allowing you to choose the type and style of stay that best suits your needs.
You can use the app to book recommended hotels and hostels or make arrangements on other platforms for more personalized options.
The app also offers convenient booking options for tours and activities, but you can customize your experience based on your preferences and budget.
Since you control how long you stay at each stop, plan your activities to maximize your experience.
For instance, in Lima, you might explore the historic center or the vibrant district of Miraflores. In Huacachina, take advantage of the dunes by sandboarding or taking a sunset tour.
In Cusco, immerse yourself in local history, join a Machu Picchu tour, or explore nearby Incan sites. This hop-on hop-off model ensures ample time to enjoy each destination’s unique attractions without rushing.
Traveling with Peru Hop is flexible and social, offering opportunities to meet fellow travelers from around the world.
Our guides foster a friendly atmosphere, sharing insights and stories while helping you connect with other passengers.
This community vibe is a great way to exchange travel tips, make new friends, and perhaps even find travel companions for parts of your journey.
Choosing between Peru Hop and DIY travel depends on your personal travel style, priorities, and the kind of experience you’re hoping to have in Peru. Both options have their advantages and potential drawbacks.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide which is best suited for your journey.
When choosing between a hop-on hop-off bus service like Peru Hop and independent travel, there are several important factors to weigh. Consider these points to determine which option best suits your travel needs:
Ultimately, choosing between a hop-on hop-off bus service and independent travel depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Consider your priorities and travel style, and choose the option that best aligns with your goals for your Peru adventure.
For travelers deciding between Peru Hop and Cruz del Sur, the choice depends on your travel style and priorities:
Choose Peru Hop if:
Choose Cruz del Sur if:
Both companies are reputable and maintain good safety standards, but they cater to different travel preferences. Peru Hop is tailored specifically for tourists seeking experiences, while Cruz del Sur is a traditional Peruvian bus company serving both locals and travelers with a focus on transportation rather than tourism.
The best mode of transportation in Peru depends on your itinerary, budget, and time constraints:
For tourists exploring popular destinations: Tourist-focused bus services like Peru Hop offer the best balance of convenience, safety, and experience for travelers following the main tourist route along the coast and to major destinations.
For budget travelers with time flexibility: Public buses like Cruz del Sur provide an affordable option with extensive coverage throughout the country.
For travelers with limited time: Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances, especially between Lima and Cusco or to reach remote destinations like Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos.
For exploring cities:
For remote or off-the-beaten-path destinations: Private transportation or specialized tours may be necessary to reach areas not served by regular bus routes.
For most tourists following Peru’s main attractions (Lima, Nazca, Arequipa, Cusco, Puno), a flexible option like Peru Hop provides the best combination of convenience, safety, and experience, particularly for first-time visitors to Peru.
Peru Hop offers various passes at different price points depending on the route and number of destinations. As of 2025, prices generally range from $159 to $299, though these can change with seasonal promotions and new offerings.
The most popular passes include:
While these prices may seem higher than individual bus tickets, the value includes:
For budget-conscious travelers looking for affordable options, Peru Hop frequently offers promotions, especially during low season (February-April, September-November), with discounts of up to 20% on passes. They also have a sister company, Ecuador Hop, for travelers continuing their journey northward.
Yes, all Peru Hop buses are equipped with onboard toilets, making the journey more comfortable for passengers, especially during longer stretches between stops. This is an important feature for travelers concerned about comfort during day trips and overnight trips between destinations.
In addition to toilets, Peru Hop buses include other comfort amenities such as:
The buses make regular comfort stops every few hours where passengers can use larger restroom facilities, stretch their legs, and purchase snacks or refreshments. During these stops, the onboard guides provide information about the location and approximately how long the stop will last.
It’s worth noting that while the toilets are clean and well-maintained, they are still bus toilets with typical limitations. For this reason, many passengers prefer to use the facilities during the regular comfort stops when possible.
Purchasing bus tickets in Peru varies depending on whether you’re using traditional bus companies like Cruz del Sur or tourist-focused services like Peru Hop:
For Peru Hop:
For Cruz del Sur and other Peruvian bus companies:
Tips for buying bus tickets in Peru:
For the best combination of convenience, safety, and flexibility, booking online in advance is recommended, particularly for major routes between popular tourist destinations during peak travel seasons.
Peru Hop is a flexible hop-on, hop-off bus service that lets you explore Peru at your own pace. Here’s how it works:
Head to our website and choose the travel pass that covers the destinations you want to visit. Whether you’re looking to explore Lima, Cusco, Paracas, or Puno, you can select the pass that fits your itinerary.
Once you’ve got your pass, you can use our online booking platform to schedule your departures. Plan your entire trip in advance or simply book your next leg of the journey as you go—the choice is yours.
No need to worry about navigating bus terminals. With Peru Hop, we pick you up directly from your accommodation in each city. This door-to-door service ensures a smooth start to your travels.
All our buses are accompanied by bilingual guides who provide valuable insights into each destination, recommend activities, and share local tips to enrich your experience.
Hop off at any destination along the route and stay as long as you want—whether it’s for one day, a few days, or even several weeks. You’re in control of how long you want to explore each spot.
When you’re ready to continue, simply use our online platform or app to book your next departure. You can make changes to your schedule up to 12 hours before your bus leaves, offering you maximum flexibility.
Our buses make special stops at unique locations like the Paracas National Reserve and the Nazca Lines viewing tower. These mini-tours are included in your pass, adding extra value to your trip.
We’ve partnered with local hotels, restaurants, and activity providers to offer exclusive discounts to our passengers. Take advantage of these deals and make the most of your stay.
The Peru Hop system combines the convenience of organized transportation with the flexibility to design your own perfect Peruvian adventure. Your pass is valid for one year from your first day of travel, so there’s no need to plan months in advance—just make sure to schedule your next departure at least 12 hours before.
For travelers who want both structure and freedom, Peru Hop offers the best of both worlds—security, convenience, and the freedom to explore Peru on your own terms.
Absolutely! Peru Hop is definitely worth it for anyone who wants to experience Peru in a way that’s flexible, safe, and full of authentic experiences.
Unlike traditional bus travel, Peru Hop offers a completely unique way to explore the country. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about fully immersing yourself in the journey.
With our hop-on hop-off model, bilingual guides, exclusive stops, and added safety measures, Peru Hop turns your travel into an adventure, not just a ride. You’ll get to discover hidden gems, learn about the culture from local experts, and have the flexibility to travel at your own pace.
So, why settle for a typical trip when you can experience the real Peru with Peru Hop? It’s more than just transportation—it’s a chance to truly explore and immerse yourself in the culture, history, and beauty of the country.
Book your Peru Hop pass today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
Through the years, we’ve seen Peru Hop grow into one of the best travel companies in Peru since their start in 2013. With a unique hop on, hop off bus system, they’ve helped over 300,000 travelers discover Peru.
Here’s all the the information you need to know about Peru Hop to know if it’s the best option for you!
They operate as a hop on hop off bus system that covers the South of Peru and connects through to Bolivia. Each pass has a start and end point, with a set amount of stops (destinations) throughout the route. With your “Hop Login” (provided with your booking ticket), you’re then able to change your itinerary, pick up locations, add extra tours and more! It’s surprisingly easy to use given we haven’t seen something similar anywhere else.
Compared to public buses and fixed tours, the first thing that always stands out is their flexibility. Traveling at your own pace is made simple with their service. Onboard Peruvian bilingual guides are always present, special discounts in each destination, and the perfect combination of travelers from around the world make it one of the best.
Is Peru Hop worth it?
From previous experience and by reading what other travelers have said, it definitely is worth it. Just check out out some of their reviews to see for yourself!
Is Peru Hop expensive?
At a glance, some may think it’s expensive but after doing the maths it’s actually not! Add up all the journeys, direct pickups and dropoffs to your hotel/hostel (taxis from terminals can cost between $4-5 each way), the free tours along the way and it all comes out to almost the same price. Additionally, they offer discounts on many hotels and hostels in the destinations they go through. Lastly, add to that the onboard bilingual guides, excellent customer service, and GPS tracking systems and it all comes to be cheaper and much safer!
How comfortable are the buses?
Yes, comfortable and spacious. If you traveled around South America, theres a trend of buses being uncomfortable but Peru actually has the best buses in the continent. Peru Hop runs more of the modern buses, which offer reclining seats, spacious and bathrooms.
Do the buses have Wi-Fi?
No Wi-Fi is available on the bus. Due to the below par internet and isolated areas in route, it’s difficult to provide the service. We’ve traveled with other bus companies and although they offer it, it ends up being useless after 30 minutes.
Is there an age limit?
There is no age limit. The time I’ve used the service, I met the usual young backpackers but also met a family of 5 who were traveling a 2 year old and an elderly couple who were traveling South America!
As you can see, there’s many reasons as to why Peru Hop has become one of the best ways to travel Peru. Make sure to check out their How It Works page to get much more info to start planning your trip. Safe travels!
Lima, Peru, a vibrant city known for its lively nightlife, boasts an array of thrilling entertainment options. Among the many, one stands out – The Bunker Bar Lima. Offering the best music from live DJs, free shots, and an atmosphere brimming with excitement, this club located in the heart of Miraflores – the main tourist spot – has become the go-to destination for local and foreign party enthusiasts.
Address: Calle Bolívar 164, Miraflores (behind the Atlantic City Casino)
Open: Fridays & Saturdays ’til late
Known for: Being a relatively new but already popular and social nightclub with some of the best DJs
Why we love it: 10 soles drinks from 7pm to 10pm on Fridays to get the night started and wild parties on Saturdays
Instagram: @bunkerbarlima
The moment you step into The Bunker Bar, you are greeted by an explosion of sound, dazzling lights, and an electrifying atmosphere. The immersive, lively club will bring guests into a meticulously designed space featuring multi-genre music.
Every Friday and Saturday night, the special guest DJs combine to perfection the best of both worlds: the main latin genres such as reggaeton and salsa with the english classics and latest top-charters. The seamless transitioning between tracks, and the flawless reading of the mood, keeps the crowd dancing until the very end. And we don’t know how to explain it but despite the full dance floor, you’ll find yourself dancing comfortably.
The drinks offered at the bar just add on to the already nearly perfect scene. They like to keep the cocktails basic and simple – great quality nonetheless – and have perfected them to always keep the party going at all times. Best part of it all, even though these drinks are top-notch, they’re still much cheaper then other bars/nightclubs around.
Make sure to follow and check out their Instagram page @bunkerbarlima to stay up-to-date with their weekend events!
In the heart of Lima’s nightlife scene, this premier nightclub has carved a reputation as the ultimate destination for an unforgettable weekend night. Whether you’re going to dance away with locals or with your group of friends, the vibrant atmosphere of The Bunker Bar offers an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
Included as one of the must do things in Lima, definitely make sure to have a night out (or two) at the Bunker and dance the night away on the coolest dance floor in the city!
Cruz del Sur is the most widely recognized bus company in Peru. However, in recent years following Covid-19, reviews have highlighted growing concerns about safety and poor customer service. And with the rise of the highly-rated Peru Hop bus (started in 2013), and improvements made by other local bus companies such as Civa, Oltursa and Movil, is it still best option out there in 2025?
Cruz del Sur has one of the best domestic coverage of Peruvian bus companies. With terminals in most major cities in Peru going from Tacna in the far south to Tumbes in the north, along with more than 25 destinations in between. These include all of the main coastal destinations, as well as highland cities like Cajamarca, Huancayo, Ayacucho, Cusco, Puno and Arequipa.
| Company | Main Destinations (Updated 2025) |
| Cruz del Sur | Ica, Paracas, Cajamarca, Huaraz, Huancayo, Ayacucho, Cusco, Puno and Arequipa |
| Peru Hop | Ica, Paracas, *Huacachina (Peru Hop is the only direct bus to Huacachina in Peru. If taking a public/local bus, you would need to take a bus to Ica. Once in Ica, you would need to find a local taxi to then take you to Huacachina), Nazca, Arequipa, Puno and Cusco. |
| Civa | Amazon, Ayacucho, Cusco, Puno, Ica, Huancayo, Piura, San Martin, Apurimac |
| Movil | Arequipa, Ayacucho, Chachapoyas, Cusco, Huaraz, Oxapampa, Trujillo, Puerto Maldonado |
| Oltursa | Arequipa, Cusco, Huancayo, Huaraz, Ica, Chiclayo, Huancayo, Mancora, |
*=Exclusive Stops
This round is a close tie between Cruz del Sur and Civa. In recent years, Civa have expanded their route to more national destinations.
Whilst they have good coverage, their reviews are favorable (especially in recent years after Covid-19).
On tripadvisor they have the following reviews:
| Company | 5 Star Ratings | 1 and 2 Star Ratings | Overall Rating |
| Cruz del Sur | 378 out of 1,136 total reviews | 330 out of 1,136 total reviews | 65% |
| Peru Hop | 10,183 out of 11,771 total reviews | 252 out of 11,771 total reviews | 97% |
| Oltursa | 29 out of 144 total reviews | 77 out of 144 total reviews | 51% |
| Movil | 14 out of 103 total reviews | 53 out of 103 total reviews | 48% |
Cruz del Sur also goes to more international destinations than any other Peruvian bus company. Heading north, buses run through Guayaquil and Quito in Ecuador before heading to Cali and then Bogotá in Colombia. They also head south to Santiago in Chile, with two routes into Argentina, one through Córdoba and one through Mendoza, both terminating in Buenos Aires.
Although Peru Hop mainly goes to the south of Peru, they also have stops in La Paz and Copacabana in Bolivia with their sister company, Bolivia Hop.
Due to its international destinations, Cruz del Sur beats Peru Hop, Civa and Oltursa here.
It can never be said that Cruz del Sur don’t invest in comfortable buses. Their buses are amongst the top of the range, and whilst their safety levels have been questionable, especially on the routes to Cusco, their buses are always comfortable.
Because Peru Hop is a relatively new company which only started running a few years ago, all their buses are brand new and comfortable with reclining seats. They don’t have double-decker buses for safety reasons(the narrow, winding roads going up and down the mountains on most routes) which means that their buses aren’t as big and that they can’t get as many passengers on board. Unlike other bus companies, they don’t have different classes of seats on their buses so you don’t have to worry about paying extra for comfort either.
Both Civa and Oltursa have a variety of buses ranging from luxurious to average. It really depends on the length of the journey and the route it’s going on.
This round is a pretty close one between Peru Hop and Cruz del Sur, but due to the sheer number of buses owned by Cruz del Sur and the consistent standard of comfort across their fleet, this round just about goes to Cruz del Sur.
There have been incidents on Cruz del Sur involving hijackings (which can be googled or read on their tripadvisor page) and from what we have read, their response to such incidents leaves a lot to be desired. As tourists in Peru, there is not a lot you can do, and Cruz del Sur know this, so are inclined to fob you off.
They tend to not be very helpful towards their customers after such incidents have occurred, leaving people stranded for hours and not offering any sort of compensation. Traveling with a reputable company dedicated to tourists, such as Peru Hop or Inka Express, is probably a much better option for those more safety inclined. This round would go to Peru Hop hands down.
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As you can see, Cruz del Sur offers good coverage, but Peru Hop wins based exclusively on Tripadvisor reviews from tourists (again showing they are more focused on the tourism market than any other company) and for safety and customer service, which can’t be emphasized enough. If you want to read some of these reviews, you can see more here.
Anyway, this isn’t an advert for Cruz del Sur or anything like that. The idea is to allow our readers to get a more insightful view into what is supposedly the best bus company in Peru.
If you are a first time traveler to Peru, Peru Hop is probably a much better way to see Peru given their extra stops and ease of pickup and drop off service. For continuing travel in South America, Bolivia Hop and Ecuador Hop are also great options.
But remember, as with everything on our site, this is just an opinion, and we recommend you use travel blogs or Tripadvisor to help you make your choice as to the best way to get around this amazing country, or read our post about The Best Bus Companies in Peru.
Below is a complete guide to the best bus companies in Peru, updated every month for new reviews and feedback from tourists.
Long-distance Peruvian bus companies range from the luxurious to the downright dangerous so it’s important you make sure you choose the right company. If a company isn’t mentioned on this page, it’s because they are crap, pure and simple!
Did you know: Places such as Paracas, Huacachina and Nazca are ONLY accessible via bus, so be sure to choose the best bus company to travel to these locations with.
As can be seen below, Peru Hop is the Best Bus Company in Peru according to reviews on TripAdvisor and across the web. Setup in 2013 by 2 Irish guy’s, it has made the whole experience of traveling by bus much safer and comfortable for tourists.
Peru Hop is different to public bus companies in that it picks you up and drops you off at your accommodation, meaning you avoid taxis and bus terminals. It also makes quick stops at places between the major stops, as there are some hidden gems along the way. Public buses don’t stop here as Peruvians (their core customers) just want to get from A to B as quickly as possible.
As can be seen by our analysis below, Cruz del Sur is the best of the rest. Their buses are excellent, but after reading their TripAdvisor page, you can see their customer service to tourists is very poor, with many people experiencing a lot of issues, with robberies, delays and accidents all being reported. See their TripAdvisor page here.
Anyways, read below and decide yourself what is the best bus company in Peru, and remember, safe travels!
Below is a quick, side-by-side summary of each of the most popular and reliable bus companies in Peru. To jump to a more in-depth analysis you can click the name of the company and it will take you to its section.
| Bus Company | Safety Rating | Tripadvisor Score | Customer Service | Bus Quality and Seat Comfort |
| Peru Hop | 5/5 | 97% | 5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Civa | 4/5 | N/A | 3.5/5 | 3/5 |
| Cruz Del Sur | 3.5/5 | 65% | 2.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Movil | 3.5/5 | 48% | 3.5/5 | 4/5 |
The following are all top-end to mid-range Peruvian bus companies, starting with some of the best and working down towards the ones that are probably best avoided. The order is by no means scientifically proven, but it will give you an idea of the bus companies you can rely on to get you from A to B with minimal fuss and more importantly, safely.
Quality costs, so expect to pay more (but not too much) for the upper end of the scale. Click on the company name to go directly to its website (English version where available, all links open in a new window and some of the websites have really annoying music).
A relatively new and refreshing bus service in Peru which started in October 2013, but already has over 5,000 excellent reviews on their Tripadvisor page, which is quite impressive.
Being the first and only hop-on, hop-off bus system in Peru, the company covers the Lima to Cusco route. It offers a flexible bus pass (50+ options from long distance to short day trips), in which you can stay however long you want in any of the destinations, letting you enjoy travel at your own pace. Apart from this, there’s onboard bilingual assistance on all their busses, as well as discounts on accommodation and restaurants in all the destinations.
They tend to stick to 1 floor buses which definitely seems to be the safest option for any bus and take the safer route through the south of Peru (Nazca/Arequipa/Cusco). They pick-up passengers at hotels and hostels in all destinations which is a huge bonus here in Peru (no getting unsafe taxis or going to dangerous bus terminals).
They do not cover the North of Peru yet, but definitely a service that is recommended for people wanting to travel safely and discover Peru! For continuing travel in South America, Ecuador Hop and Bolivia Hop are also great options. If you want to check out some of the reviews of Peru Hop, then you can see their review page here.
| Safety Rating | Tripadvisor Score | Customer Service | Bus Quality and Seat Comfort |
| 5/5 | 96% | 5/5 | 4.5/5 |
It is one of the recommended companies in Peru by local people looking to get from A to B. They are said to be reliable, comfortable and have excellent coverage throughout much of Peru. Civa has excellent coverage along the coast, all the way from the Ecuadorian border in the north to Chile in the south. Also runs to places further inland such as Tarapoto and Puerto Maldonado.
| Safety Rating | Tripadvisor Score | Customer Service | Bus Quality and Seat Comfort |
| 4/5 | N/A | 3.5/5 | 3/5 |
Looking to travel Peru? Now is the perfect time to start planning your trip to Peru! And it seems like for many, the perfect start to their trip is one of the Day Trips from Lima operated by Peru Hop!
Cruz del Sur has been getting a lot of negative feedback lately, especially in Tripadvisor reviews. Many travelers have reported safety concerns, with more incidents being shared online.
Breakdowns, flat tires, and other issues seem to be common, but what frustrates passengers most is the lack of help from staff when things go wrong.
Given the ongoing complaints, it’s probably best to consider other bus options in Peru.
| Safety Rating | Tripadvisor Score | Customer Service | Bus Quality and Seat Comfort |
| 3/5 | 65% | 2.5/5 | 4/5 |
A reliable company (although negative reviews are not uncommon), which also offers a variety of options regarding price. Movil is arguably the best choice if you are heading to the north of Peru, or to Peru’s biggest inland cities (Huancayo, Tarapoto, Cajamarca, etc). However, like mentioned before, they do get negative reviews so make sure to take a look at their tripadvisor page.
| Safety Rating | Tripadvisor Score | Customer Service | Bus Quality and Seat Comfort |
| 3.5/5 | 51% | 3.5/5 | 4/5 |
If you are planning to travel around the South of Peru (Lima – Arequipa – Cusco) without any fixed itineraries, then Peru Hop is the only company we recommend after reading their Tripadvisor page, Facebook page and other online reviews. Their extra stops allows tourists to see more of Peru rather than public buses who just bring you from A to B. The hotel and hostel pickups are a nice bonus to avoid waiting in bus terminals and trying to haggle prices with taxi drivers.
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