Can I cross at night?

The border closes at 8pm. Last buses typically leave Puno around 2pm to ensure border crossing during business hours.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination?

Not required for this route, but recommended if you're continuing to Bolivia's lowlands like Santa Cruz or the Amazon.

Can I buy Bolivian pesos at the border?

Yes, but rates are poor. Better to exchange in La Paz or withdraw from ATMs there. US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.

What if the border is closed?

Strikes or protests occasionally close borders. Check current conditions in Puno or with your accommodation. Alternative crossings exist but require longer detours.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes, you'll be at 3,800+ meters. Come from Cusco (already high) rather than Lima. Stay hydrated and consider altitude sickness medication.

How to Cross from Peru to Bolivia Overland

The most popular overland crossing is from Puno, Peru to La Paz, Bolivia via Copacabana and Lake Titicaca. The journey takes 3-4 hours by bus and costs $8-15. You'll need your passport and may need to pay exit/entry fees.

Get to Puno. Take a bus from Cusco to Puno (6-7 hours, $10-20) or fly to Juliaca airport and bus to Puno (1 hour, $3). Most travelers come from Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu.
Buy your bus ticket. Book with Cruz del Sur, Inka Express, or local companies at Puno bus terminal. Tourist buses cost $12-15 and include Lake Titicaca boat tour. Direct buses cost $8-10 and skip tours.
Cross at Kasani-Yunguyo border. Bus stops at Peruvian immigration for exit stamp, then 200 meters to Bolivian immigration for entry stamp. Keep your passport handy and have pen ready for forms.
Pay any fees. US citizens pay $160 visa fee at border (cash only). EU citizens enter free for 90 days. Check current requirements for your nationality before traveling.
Continue to La Paz. Bus continues through Copacabana (optional stop for Lake Titicaca views) then to La Paz. Total journey time is 3-4 hours from Puno to La Paz.

Can I cross at night?: The border closes at 8pm. Last buses typically leave Puno around 2pm to ensure border crossing during business hours.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination?: Not required for this route, but recommended if you're continuing to Bolivia's lowlands like Santa Cruz or the Amazon.
Can I buy Bolivian pesos at the border?: Yes, but rates are poor. Better to exchange in La Paz or withdraw from ATMs there. US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
What if the border is closed?: Strikes or protests occasionally close borders. Check current conditions in Puno or with your accommodation. Alternative crossings exist but require longer detours.
Is altitude sickness a concern?: Yes, you'll be at 3,800+ meters. Come from Cusco (already high) rather than Lima. Stay hydrated and consider altitude sickness medication.