Safest, cheap bus from Lima to Cusco (Machu Picchu)?

Hi all,

I'm flying to Lima with 5 friends on July 14th, we're going to book with Cruz del Sur bus service from Lima to Cusco this weekend but I just thought I'd see what you all with experience had to say. Is there anything cheaper than $48 USD each way? We're willing to go somewhat sketchy (we're electing to walk 2-3 hours to Aguas Calientes from the hydroelectric station near Santa Maria instead of paying the $70 train), but nothing really out there. Any recommendations?

Also, while I'm here, is it worth paying an extra $8 to go VIP on the bus? The seats look significantly better, so I'm going to answer that question for myself unless anyone has input: http://www.cruzdelsur.com.pe/suite.htm Reply to this