Exploring the captivating Cusco South Valley is a must-do for any traveler seeking to uncover Peru’s rich history and stunning landscapes. For just $25, this 5-hour tour guides visitors through a tapestry of ancient archaeological wonders and architectural marvels. With knowledgeable English and Spanish-speaking guides, participants can expect an immersive experience filled with cultural insights and breathtaking vistas. From the impressive Wari ruins of Pikillacta to the baroque splendor of Andahuaylillas Church, this tour promises to transport travelers back in time and leave them eager to discover more about the region’s remarkable past.
Key Points
- A 5-hour exploration of the Cusco South Valley, priced at $25.00 per person, featuring Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas Church.
- Scenic drives, ancient irrigation systems, and a visit to the Wari cultural site of Pikillacta.
- Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its stunning baroque altarpieces and murals.
- Inclusion of professional tour guide, transport, drinks, and box lunch, with additional entry tickets ranging from S/15.00 to S/130.00.
- Restrictions include no pets, oversized luggage, smoking, or alcohol, and the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or epilepsy.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Tour Experience
- Highlights of the Tour
- Inclusions and Ticket Information
- Important Tips and Restrictions
- Scenic Drive to Tipon
- Ancient Urban Center of Pikillacta
- Baroque Andahuaylillas Church
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Combine This Tour With Other Cusco Tours?
- Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
- How Much Time Should I Allocate for Each Archaeological Site?
- Is There an Option for a Private or Customized Tour?
- Can I Take Photos Inside the Andahuaylillas Church?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Cusco South Valley Tour, priced at $25.00 per person, immerses visitors in a 5-hour exploration of the region’s natural, cultural, and historical treasures.
Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour allows travelers to reserve their spot and pay later.
Highlights include visiting three archaeological sites – Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its stunning baroque altarpieces and murals.
Guests can expect a scenic drive, live guide service in English and Spanish, and included transportation, drinks, and a box lunch.
Pricing for additional entry tickets, subject to change, ranges from S/15.00 to S/130.00 depending on the tour package.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Tour Experience
Exploring the South Valley of Cusco offers a blend of nature, culture, and history. The tour takes visitors to three archaeological sites, starting with the scenic drive to Tipon. This site features 12 cultivated terraces and an ancient irrigation system, providing a glimpse into the region’s agricultural past.
Next, the group visits Pikillacta, an ancient urban center with over 1,000 buildings from the Wari culture. The final stop is the Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America," showcasing baroque altarpieces and impressive murals.
- Pickup included from hotel lobby
- Live tour guide available in English and Spanish
- Blend of nature, culture, and history
Highlights of the Tour
Scenic drives lead visitors to Tipon, a site featuring 12 cultivated terraces and an ancient irrigation system that offers a glimpse into the region’s agricultural past.
The tour then continues to Pikillacta, an ancient urban center from the Wari culture, with over 1,000 buildings that showcase the architectural prowess of this civilization.
The final highlight is the Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America." This baroque masterpiece boasts stunning altarpieces and impressive murals, providing a captivating contrast to the natural landscapes explored earlier in the tour.
Inclusions and Ticket Information
Included in the Cusco South Valley Tour are a professional tour guide, tourist transport, drinks, and a box lunch.
The tour also provides access to several attraction tickets:
- Andahuaylillas ticket for S/ 15.00
- Partial ticket for S/ 70.00, valid for the Sacred Valley tour and Maras for 2 days
- General ticket for S/ 130.00, valid for the City Tour, Valle Sur, Sacred Valley, and Maras for 10 days
It’s important to note that ticket prices are subject to change, so visitors should confirm the latest rates before purchasing.
Plus, some restrictions apply, such as no pets, oversized luggage, smoking, large bags, alcohol, or drugs.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Tips and Restrictions
The Cusco South Valley Tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or epilepsy. Visitors are advised to bring their passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen to ensure a comfortable experience. Certain items are not allowed on the tour, such as pets, oversized luggage, smoking, large bags, alcohol, and drugs.
| What to Bring | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Passport or ID | Pets |
| Sunglasses | Oversized Luggage |
| Sun Hat | Smoking |
| Sunscreen | Large Bags |
| Alcohol | |
| Drugs |
These tips and restrictions help ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants on the Cusco South Valley Tour.
Scenic Drive to Tipon
The journey to Tipon begins with a picturesque drive through the rolling hills and verdant landscapes of the Cusco South Valley.
As the tour bus winds its way through the countryside, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and quaint villages.
The scenic route allows travelers to:
- Admire the intricate terraced agricultural systems that have been in use for centuries
- Spot local wildlife, such as llamas and alpacas, grazing in the fields
- Gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage
This scenic drive sets the stage for the exploration of the archaeological wonders that await at the Tipon site.
Ancient Urban Center of Pikillacta
After the scenic drive, the tour next visits the ancient urban center of Pikillacta.
This archaeological site was a major center of the Wari culture, which flourished in Peru between 600 and 1000 AD. Visitors can explore the remains of over 1,000 buildings, including residential structures, administrative complexes, and religious temples.
The site’s impressive scale and planning demonstrate the Wari’s advanced urban development. Guests can wander through the site’s labyrinthine streets and imagine the bustling activity that once filled this ancient city.
With its well-preserved ruins, Pikillacta offers a glimpse into the sophisticated civilization that preceded the Inca Empire in the Cusco region.
Baroque Andahuaylillas Church
Next, the tour visits the Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its stunning Baroque altarpieces and impressive murals.
This 16th-century church showcases the height of colonial architecture and art. Visitors marvel at the:
- Elaborately carved and gilded altars adorned with religious imagery
- Vibrant frescoes and murals that cover the ceilings and walls
- Ornate pulpit and baptismal font, intricate examples of colonial craftsmanship
The Andahuaylillas Church is a stunning example of the fusion of indigenous and European influences, making it a must-see highlight of the Cusco South Valley tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Combine This Tour With Other Cusco Tours?
Yes, you can combine the Cusco South Valley Tour with other Cusco tours. The tour includes a partial ticket that’s valid for the Sacred Valley tour and Maras for 2 days, as well as a general ticket for 10 days.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for students and seniors. Customers can save 10% on the tour price by presenting a valid student or senior ID at the time of booking. Discounts are subject to availability.
How Much Time Should I Allocate for Each Archaeological Site?
The tour typically allocates around 1-1.5 hours for each archaeological site, allowing visitors to explore the sites thoroughly. This provides sufficient time to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas.
Is There an Option for a Private or Customized Tour?
The tour operator offers private and customized tours for an additional fee. Travelers can request a tailored itinerary to explore the sites at their own pace with a personal guide.
Can I Take Photos Inside the Andahuaylillas Church?
Guests are allowed to take photos inside the Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America," but they should be respectful and avoid flash photography. Photography policies may change, so it’s best to check with the tour guide on the day of the visit.
Cusco South Valley Tour
Recap
The Cusco South Valley Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Peru’s rich heritage and natural splendor. Exploring the ancient sites of Tipon, Pikillacta, and the stunning Andahuaylillas Church, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s vibrant history and culture. At just $25, this 5-hour journey is a must-do for anyone seeking an enriching and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Andes.
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