South Valley Tour From Cusco (Half Day)

The South Valley Tour from Cusco offers travelers a chance to explore the region’s rich Andean heritage. Visiting lesser-known sites like Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas, the tour provides an intimate experience guided by a bilingual expert. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, the half-day excursion is both accessible and informative, shedding light on the impressive Inca and Wari civilizations that once thrived in this captivating corner of Peru. For those seeking to uncover the hidden gems beyond Cusco’s historic center, this tour may just be the perfect introduction.

Good To Know

• The South Valley Tour from Cusco is a half-day group excursion to lesser-known Andean attractions, including Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.
• The tour offers insights into Inca engineering, the ancient Wari culture, and the "Sistine Chapel of America" in Andahuaylillas.
• Admission to Tipon and Pikillaqta is not included, but entry to Andahuaylillas is covered.
• The tour is non-refundable, but includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Cusco’s historic center.
• The tour is led by a bilingual guide and has a maximum group size of 15 people for a personalized experience.

Tour Overview

The South Valley Tour from Cusco is a half-day group excursion that takes visitors to three lesser-known Andean attractions.

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 people and includes hotel pickup and drop-off. A bilingual guide provides in-depth commentary on Incan history in both English and Spanish.

The tour covers the sites of Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas, showcasing Inca engineering, ancient archaeological wonders, and a stunning colonial church.

While admission to Tipon and Pikillaqta isn’t included, the tour does cover the entry fee for the Iglesia de San Pedro in Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America."

The total cost of the tour starts from $23.59 per person.

Key Attractions

The South Valley Tour takes visitors to three lesser-known Andean attractions, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Tipon, located on Cusco’s outskirts, showcases Inca engineering prowess with its agricultural terraces, fountains, and water channels. Believed to have spiritual significance, this site is a testament to the Incas’ mastery of hydrology.

At the archaeological site of Pikillaqta, guests can explore a settlement inhabited for nearly 2,000 years by the Wari culture before the Incas.

Lastly, the tour includes a visit to the Iglesia de San Pedro in Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its impressive colonial-era frescoes.

Tipon: Inca Engineering

Located on the outskirts of Cusco, Tipon showcases the Incas’ exceptional engineering prowess.

This archeological site features impressive agricultural terraces, intricate water channels, and ornate fountains. The Incas designed Tipon with great care, harnessing the power of natural springs to create a harmonious and productive landscape.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and marvel at the Incas’ mastery of hydraulic engineering. While an admission ticket isn’t included in the tour, spending time at Tipon provides a deeper understanding of the advanced Inca civilization.

This lesser-known gem offers a unique glimpse into the Incas’ sophisticated approach to land management and resource utilization.

Pikillaqta: Ancient Wari Site

Pikillaqta, situated at an impressive altitude of 3,350 meters, has been home to human activity for nearly 2,000 years.

The archaeological site’s name derives from the Quechua words "piki" (flea) and "llaqta" (town). Originally inhabited by the Wari culture before the Incas, Pikillaqta offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

Guests have about an hour to explore the site and learn about its historical significance from the knowledgeable guide.

While the admission ticket isn’t included in the tour price, the opportunity to visit this lesser-known Andean attraction adds a unique and enriching experience to the South Valley Tour.

Andahuaylillas: Sistine Chapel of America

One of the final stops on the South Valley Tour is the historic Iglesia de San Pedro, fondly known as the "Sistine Chapel of America". This beautiful 17th-century church is renowned for its stunning Baroque interior, featuring elaborate wall frescoes and ornate gold leaf decorations. Visitors can admire the church’s intricate architecture and artistry for an admission fee of S/. 15 per person.

Admission Fee
S/. 15 per person

The Iglesia de San Pedro is a must-see for those seeking a unique cultural experience during their time in Cusco. Its remarkable beauty and historical significance make it a highlight of the South Valley Tour.

Pricing and Tickets

The total cost of the South Valley Tour from Cusco starts from $23.59.

The tour ticket pricing depends on the type of Cusco Tourist Ticket purchased. The Integral Cusco Tourist Ticket costs S/. 130 per person, while the Partial Cusco Tourist Ticket is S/. 70 per person.

The tour is non-refundable, and cancellation isn’t eligible for a refund.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Cusco’s historic center, but it’s not available for private residences like Airbnb.

The tour starts at 9:00 AM.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Cusco’s historic center.

It’s not available for private residences like Airbnb.

The tour departs at 9:00 AM sharp, so it’s essential to be ready on time.

The small group size, up to 15 people, ensures a more intimate and personalized experience.

Your bilingual guide will provide in-depth commentary on the Incan history and cultural significance of the sites throughout the tour.

Whether you’re staying in a centrally located hotel or exploring Cusco’s charming streets, this South Valley tour is designed to be a convenient and enriching experience.

Traveler Reviews

Travelers have widely praised the South Valley tour from Cusco, with an impressive overall rating of 5.0 out of 4 reviews.

Three of the reviews were five-star, while one was four-star. Positive comments highlighted the guides’ deep knowledge and experience, providing in-depth commentary on Incan history.

However, some travelers noted occasional issues with language proficiency and accessibility to the church on Sundays.

Despite these minor concerns, the majority of reviewers recommended the tour as a unique opportunity to visit lesser-known Andean attractions, such as Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour With a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked as a private group. The tour provider allows private group bookings, which may have a different group size limit and pricing compared to the standard group tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer student or senior discounts, but some attractions may have reduced admission fees for these groups. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator about any potential discounts when booking.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Special Needs?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions and special needs with advance notice. Travelers are encouraged to inform the operator of any requirements when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.

Is Photography Allowed at the Archaeological Sites?

Photography is allowed at the archaeological sites of Tipon and Pikillaqta. Visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the on-site staff. Photography may be limited inside the Iglesia de San Pedro in Andahuaylillas.

How Much Time Do We Have at Each Attraction During the Tour?

According to the tour overview, visitors have 30 minutes at Tipon, 1 hour at Pikillaqta, and the time to visit the Iglesia de San Pedro in Andahuaylillas. The total tour duration is a half-day.

The Sum Up

The South Valley Tour from Cusco offers a captivating half-day excursion that showcases lesser-known Andean attractions, including Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas. Guided by a bilingual expert, this tour provides an intimate experience and insights into the rich history and culture of the region. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and a reasonable price of $23.59 per person, the tour is an excellent option for those interested in exploring the fascinating Inca and Wari heritage.