Recent reviews of Cruz del Sur by past tourists (more below) indicate a drop in standards compared to previous years.

We have analyzed TripAdvisor, Reddit forums, Google Reviews and more to gather our findings.

Quick Summary (based on tourist reviews)

  • You are 65% likely to have everything go fine and no problems
  • When problems do happen, Cruz del Sur do not really seem to help tourists (more focused on local Peruvians)
  • Delays, breakdowns and poor Wi-Fi are commonly reported by tourists.

Positives and Negatives Reported about Cruz del Sur:

Based on 1,100+ TripAdvisor Reviews from tourists (not locals) with 65% of travelers rating the experience as very good or excellent, here are the main findings:

Positives about Cruz del Sur:

  • Coverage to both North & South of Peru
  • 20kg baggage limit + carry on allowed
  • Seats usually comfortable

Negatives about Cruz del Sur:

  • Frequently Late Departures (often 2+ hours late)
  • Wi-Fi signal bad and not working outside major cities
  • Breakdowns & Aircon not working reported frequently
  • No assistance in English when problems happen

Should I travel with Cruz del Sur in 2026?

A: If you have already been to Peru, have good Spanish, and just want to get from A to B, then Cruz del Sur is a good option for you despite the issues reported.

B: If you are a first-time traveler to Peru, want to see more than just bus terminal to bus terminal, and value good Wi-Fi and punctuality, it might be better to look at alternative bus companies.

What other bus companies do we recommend for travelers in 2026?

Peru Hop:

  • 98% rating on Tripadvisor
  • Built specifically for travelers and stops at local hidden spots
  • High-Speed Wi-Fi, punctuality, and great customer service are frequently mentioned in reviews

Inka Express:

  • Cusco to Puno or Puno to Cusco specialists
  • Operate the famous Inka Sun route
  • Make brief stops along the route at places most tourists miss

Compare Peru Hop vs Cruz del Sur

How Peru Hop compares to public buses like Cruz del Sur
Feature Public Bus Peru Hop
English-speaking host onboard
Meet other travelers onboard
Stops at attractions en route
Free high-speed Wi-Fi
Accommodation pickup & dropoff
Comfortable buses
TripAdvisor ratings 65% 98%

More facts about Cruz del Sur:

  • Offers bus coverage all over Peru to local Peruvians who cannot afford to fly
  • Owned by the huge Ibarcena corporation
  • Founded in 1960 and got a big reputation amongst tourists before Peru Hop was started in 2013
  • Operates bus terminal to bus terminal, not door to door like Peru Hop
  • Does not go to Huacachina (only goes as far as Ica)

Overall Summary:

For years, tourists to Peru have used Cruz del Sur to get to places that are hard to get to by flying.

However, in recent years, their service levels have dropped and many tourists have switched to using the Peru Hop bus.

Before booking, you can read Cruz del Sur Tripadvisor reviews HERE, and Peru Hop Tripadvisor reviews HERE, and compare which is the best for you.

Official websites of both companies: