Cusco South Valley – Tipón, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas (Half Day)

The Cusco South Valley tour offers a compelling half-day adventure that delves into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will marvel at the intricate pre-Inca agricultural terraces of Tipón, explore the urban planning of the Wari civilization at Pikillacta, and admire the stunning Baroque art of the Andahuaylillas Chapel. With a maximum group size of 16, this 5-star rated tour promises an immersive cultural experience, leaving participants eager to uncover more of Peru’s captivating history and architectural wonders.

About Your Stay

• This half-day tour covers three significant sites in Cusco’s South Valley: Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas Chapel.
• Tipón showcases the Inca’s advanced agricultural terrace engineering and irrigation system with panoramic valley views.
• Pikillacta, an ancient Wari civilization site, presents impressive urban planning and architectural achievements.
• Andahuaylillas Chapel, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas," boasts stunning colonial Baroque-style art and design.
• The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, a midday meal, and comprehensive travel insurance, with a maximum group size of 16 travelers.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but allows strollers, and infants must sit on laps.

Overview of the Tour

The Cusco South Valley Tour takes travelers on a half-day excursion to explore the captivating sites of Tipon, Pikillacta, and the Chapel of Andahuaylillas.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by previous participants, this tour is operated by Eco Tour Cusco and priced at S/.1,896.11 per person.

Groups are limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, lunch, and entrance tickets to the Chapel of Andahuaylillas.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with an option for infant seating.

Confirmation is provided upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the start of the experience.

Exploring Tipón

Tipon, a stunning pre-Inca site, showcases the engineering prowess of the Inca Empire.

This agricultural terrace complex features an intricate irrigation system that channeled water from nearby springs to nourish crops. Visitors can stroll along the well-preserved stone aqueducts and marvel at the precise stonework.

The site’s strategic location overlooking the valley provides panoramic vistas. Tipon’s sophisticated water management techniques and impressive architecture offer a glimpse into the advanced civilization that once thrived in the Cusco region.

As part of the Cusco South Valley tour, this archaeological gem provides a captivating window into the past and a testament to the Incas’ remarkable engineering accomplishments.

Discovering Pikillacta

Next on the Cusco South Valley tour is the pre-Inca site of Pikillacta, a remarkable example of the Wari civilization‘s architectural achievements.

Dating back to the 7th century AD, Pikillacta was a thriving urban center and administrative capital of the Wari Empire. Visitors can explore the site’s well-preserved stone structures, including plazas, aqueducts, and residential areas.

The site’s intricate planning and advanced engineering techniques showcase the Wari’s sophisticated urban planning. As travelers wander through Pikillacta, they’ll gain insight into this influential pre-Inca culture and its lasting impact on the region’s history.

Visiting Andahuaylillas Chapel

After exploring the remains of Pikillacta, the tour proceeds to the charming village of Andahuaylillas.

The highlight of this stop is the Chapel of Andahuaylillas, also known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas". This 17th-century church boasts a stunning interior adorned with intricate murals, gilded altars, and ornate carvings.

Visitors marvel at the chapel’s exceptional Baroque-style architecture and artistic masterpieces. The guide provides insights into the history and significance of this architectural gem, considered one of the finest examples of colonial religious art in Peru.

The tour then concludes, returning participants to the starting point in Cusco.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour begins with participants meeting at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco’s city center.

From there, the tour operator, Eco Tour Cusco, offers the option of pickup at selected points around Cusco.

During the tour, travelers are transported to the various sites, including Tipón, Pikillacta, and the Chapel of Andahuaylillas.

At the end of the tour, participants are returned to the original meeting point at Plaza Regocijo.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infants can sit on laps.

Most travelers are able to participate in this half-day exploration of the Cusco South Valley.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes transportation, a professional guide, and a midday meal.

Entrance tickets to the Chapel of Andahuaylillas are also covered. Travelers can expect comprehensive travel insurance as part of the package.

The activity starts and ends at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, with options for pickup at selected locations.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers are allowed, and infants can sit on laps. Most travelers are able to participate in the experience.

Confirmation is provided upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins, though it’s likely to sell out.

Accessibility and Participation

Wheelchair users cannot access this tour, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the excursion. Most travelers are able to participate, though the tour may not be suitable for all.

Accessibility	Wheelchair	Stroller	Infant	Traveler
Accessibility	✓	✓	✓	✓
Difficulty	✗	✓	✓	✓
Duration	✗	✓	✓	✓
Terrain	✗	✓	✓	✓
Age	✗	✓	✓	✓

Customers are advised to consider their individual needs and abilities before booking this tour in Cusco, Peru.

Booking Information and Policies

Confirmation is provided upon booking this Cusco South Valley Tour. Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts without penalty.

This tour is popular and often sells out quickly, so early booking is recommended. The meeting point is at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, with the option for pickup at selected locations. The tour ends back at the original meeting point.

Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps.

Questions About Your Stay

Is the Tour Suitable for Older Adults?

The tour appears suitable for older adults, as it’s not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, and most travelers can participate. The half-day duration and inclusion of lunch and transportation make it manageable for seniors.

How Often Does the Tour Run?

The tour runs daily, according to the available information. However, the exact frequency is not specified, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest schedule and availability.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food?

While the tour includes lunch, participants are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and water. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any restrictions on outside food and beverages.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Tour?

The tour is accessible for most travelers, but it’s not wheelchair-friendly. Participants should be able to walk and climb stairs. Infants can join but must be carried, as strollers are allowed.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Group Bookings?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Travelers can cancel their booking without penalty during this time period.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Cusco South Valley tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Peru. From the awe-inspiring Tipón terraces to the Wari architectural marvels of Pikillacta and the stunning Baroque artistry of Andahuaylillas Chapel, this half-day adventure promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. With its small group size and highly rated service, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the captivating history and stunning landscapes of the Cusco region.