South Valley (Half Day)

The South Valley (Half Day) tour in Cusco, Peru, offers an engaging exploration of the region’s lesser-known archaeological gems and a stunning colonial church. From intricate Incan irrigation systems to pre-Inca Wari architectural marvels, this half-day excursion promises to immerse visitors in Peru’s rich cultural heritage. The tour culminates at the captivating San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas." With personalized insights from a knowledgeable bilingual guide, travelers can expect an unforgettable journey through Cusco’s remarkable past. Whether you’re seeking a glimpse into the region’s vibrant history or simply want to witness architectural wonders, this tour has something to captivate every visitor.

About Your Stay

• A half-day tour that visits the lesser-known pre-Inca site of Pikillaqta, the Inca engineering marvels of Tipon, and the colonial-era church of Andahuaylillas.
• The tour provides insights into the rich pre-Columbian heritage and the blending of Inca and Spanish cultures in Peru’s history.
• Includes a bilingual guide, private transportation, and hotel pickup from the historic center of Cusco, with entrance fees paid separately.
• Limited to a maximum group size of 15 travelers for a personalized experience, and not wheelchair accessible.
• Operated by Andes Peru Tour & Adventure, with a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, and a lowest price guarantee.

Tour Overview

The tour is named the "South Valley (Half Day)" and takes place in Cusco, Peru.

It’s an experience that allows visitors to explore less-visited sites near Cusco, including archaeological ruins and a colonial church. The tour lasts half a day and has a maximum group size of 15 travelers.

The itinerary highlights include visiting the Incan site of Tipon, the Wari archaeological site of Pikillaqta, and the 16th-century church of San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas.

The tour includes a bilingual guide, private transportation, and hotel pickup from central Cusco.

Entrance fees are additional, ranging from 21 USD to 39 USD for the archaeological sites and 15 Soles for the church.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors on the South Valley (Half Day) tour begin at Tipon, a large Incan archaeological site featuring impressive irrigation channels carved into the hillside.

They’ll then explore Pikillaqta, a pre-Inca Wari ruin that predates the Inca civilization.

The tour finishes at the 16th-century San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas church, which contains Inca architectural remnants and beautiful murals.

Throughout the day, the bilingual guide provides insights into the history and significance of these less-visited sites near Cusco.

This half-day excursion offers an opportunity to discover the region’s pre-Columbian heritage away from the more crowded main attractions.

Tipon: Incan Irrigation Marvels

One of the highlights of the South Valley (Half Day) tour is the impressive Incan archaeological site of Tipon.

Tipon features intricate irrigation channels and terraced agricultural fields, showcasing the Inca’s advanced engineering prowess. Visitors can wander through the site, marveling at the well-preserved remnants of this ancient hydraulic system.

The site’s strategic location on the slopes of the Andes mountains allowed the Inca to harness the power of natural springs and runoff, creating a sustainable irrigation network.

Tipon’s architectural and engineering feats provide a glimpse into the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of hydrology and their ability to adapt to the challenging mountainous terrain.

Pikillaqta: Pre-Inca Wari Site

After exploring the impressive Incan site of Tipon, the tour continues to Pikillaqta, a remarkable pre-Inca Wari archaeological site.

Dating back to the 5th century AD, Pikillaqta was a major urban center of the Wari civilization, predating the Inca Empire. Visitors can wander through the well-preserved plazas, dwellings, and administrative structures, gaining insight into the architectural and urban planning achievements of this ancient culture.

The site’s strategic location and complex water management system demonstrate the Wari’s advanced engineering capabilities.

Exploring Pikillaqta provides a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of Andean history before the rise of the Inca.

Andahuaylillas: Colonial Church Gems

The tour’s final stop is the 16th-century San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas, a colonial church considered one of the "Sistine Chapels of the Americas" for its exquisite interior.

Visitors will be captivated by the church’s ornate decoration, including its lavishly gilded altarpiece, intricate murals, and impressive collection of colonial art.

The Inca architectural elements, such as the carved stone doorway, provide a fascinating contrast to the church’s baroque style.

Entrance to the church costs 15 Soles.

This final destination offers a glimpse into Peru’s colonial history and the blending of Inca and Spanish cultures that defines the country’s unique heritage.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package includes a bilingual tour guide, private transportation, and hotel pickup from central Cusco locations. The total cost for this half-day South Valley tour is from $51.20:

• All site entrance fees for 2-day or 10-day access
• Entrance to the 16th-century Andahuaylillas church
• Pickup from hotels within Cusco’s historic center
• No pickup from private residences or hotels outside the historic area
• Non-refundable upon cancellation
• Lowest price guarantee

This comprehensive tour offers excellent value, providing access to less-visited archaeological sites and a stunning colonial church near Cusco.

Pickup Information

For this South Valley tour, pickup is provided from hotels within the historic center of Cusco. However, there is no pickup from private residences like Airbnb or hotels outside the historic center. This ensures a smooth start to the tour for all participants.

Pickup Locations	Pickup Provided
Hotels in Historic Center	✓
Private Residences (e.g., Airbnb)	✗
Hotels Outside Historic Center	✗
Cruise Ship Terminals	✗

The tour operator keeps the group size small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, to provide a more personalized experience.

Booking and Reviews

Guests receive confirmation at the time of booking for the South Valley (Half Day) tour.

This Cusco, Peru experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and non-refundable upon cancellation.

Operated by Andes Peru Tour & Adventure, the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee. Customers can check availability for selected time slots.

• 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews (all 5-star ratings)
• Confirmation received at booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Non-refundable upon cancellation
• Lowest Price Guarantee

The South Valley (Half Day) tour provides an opportunity to visit less-visited archaeological sites and a colonial church near Cusco.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour operator does not specify a dress code. However, comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the outdoor archaeological sites and church visit during the half-day South Valley tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour company does not provide or store any personal snacks or beverages. Travelers should plan accordingly for their own refreshment needs during the half-day excursion.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages as long as they can participate in the activities. Children are welcome to join the group.

Can I Pay in Cash or Only by Card?

Travelers can pay for the tour in cash or by card. The tour operator accepts both payment methods, providing flexibility for customers. However, specific payment details should be confirmed with the tour provider prior to booking.

What Should I Bring to Be Prepared for the Tour?

To be prepared, travelers should bring water, snacks, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and any personal medications needed. It’s also a good idea to bring cash for the optional Andahuaylillas church entrance fee.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The South Valley (Half Day) tour in Cusco, Peru, offers a unique opportunity to explore lesser-known archaeological sites and a stunning colonial church. From the intricate Incan irrigation system at Tipon to the advanced architectural achievements at Pikillaqta and the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" in Andahuaylillas, this tour provides an enriching journey through Peru’s rich heritage. With a personalized experience and a maximum group size of 15, travelers are sure to leave with unforgettable memories.