The Cusco South Valley tour promises an enriching exploration of the Andes’ remarkable history and cultural heritage. Visitors will marvel at the advanced Inca hydraulic engineering showcased at Tipon, featuring stunning terraced canals and fountains that highlight the civilization’s ingenuity. At Pikillaqta, they’ll uncover the remnants of the Wari empire, revealing their intricate urban planning and architectural prowess. Together, these archaeological sites provide a captivating glimpse into the region’s past, leaving travelers eager to delve deeper into the captivating stories that shaped this enchanting landscape.
Key Points
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The South Valley tour near Cusco explores three archaeological sites: Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas, showcasing Inca hydraulic engineering and Wari civilization.
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Tipon features advanced Inca water management systems with terraced canals, aqueducts, and stone-lined pools, demonstrating their engineering expertise.
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Pikillaqta was a significant settlement of the Wari civilization, known for their urban planning and infrastructure, which influenced the rise of the Inca Empire.
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Andahuaylillas church displays impressive baroque-style paintings and gold-leaf altars, reflecting the cultural fusion between European and Andean elements during the colonial period.
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The tour is priced at $20 per person, includes hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and a live guide, providing a comprehensive exploration of the South Valley’s historical and cultural significance.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Highlights
- Inclusions
- Important Participant Information
- Booking Instructions
- Inca Hydraulic Engineering
- Wari Civilization
- Colonial Art
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
- Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
- Is There a Bathroom Stop During the Tour?
- How Accessible Is the Tour for Visitors With Disabilities?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the South Valley region near Cusco, covering three significant archaeological sites – Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.
Priced at $20 per person, the 6-hour tour features a live guide in English and Spanish, with a group size limited to 15.
Visitors can look forward to witnessing Inca hydraulic engineering at Tipon, exploring the Wari civilization’s ruins at Pikillaqta, and admiring the baroque-style paintings and gold leaf altars in Andahuaylillas.
An optional tasting of chicharrón (fried pork belly) in Saylla is offered on the return trip.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and a first aid kit, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Itinerary Highlights
Across the South Valley region near Cusco, visitors explore three remarkable archaeological centers – Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.
At Tipon, they marvel at the Inca’s advanced hydraulic engineering, with its tiered stone fountains and canals.
Next, they discover the ruins of Pikillaqta, an ancient Wari civilization settlement.
The tour then continues to Andahuaylillas, where they admire the stunning baroque-style paintings and gold leaf altars of the local church.
Along the return trip, there’s an optional tasting of the traditional Peruvian snack, chicharron, in the town of Saylla.
Inclusions
This tour typically includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, a first aid kit, tourist transportation, and entrance fees. Participants will also have the option to purchase food and beverages during the tour. Tips and souvenirs are not included in the tour price, allowing for personal preferences and budgets.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Hotel Pickup | Food and Beverage (optional) |
| Professional Guide | Tips |
| First Aid Kit | Souvenirs |
| Tourist Transportation | |
| Entrance Fees |
Important Participant Information
Not suitable for individuals of certain physical or age limitations, this tour may pose challenges.
Pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, and people over 70 years old are advised not to participate. The walking and exploration of archaeological sites may be strenuous.
Participants should bring essential items like their passport or ID, biodegradable sunscreen, cash, and a reusable water bottle.
For last-minute reservations, it’s recommended to check availability with the supplier via email before booking. This ensures the tour can accommodate the participant’s needs and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking Instructions
When booking this tour, guests should ensure they provide their correct contact number with country code for WhatsApp communication. This allows the tour operator to easily reach the traveler if necessary.
For last-minute reservations, it’s recommended to check availability with the supplier via email before completing the booking. This ensures the tour still has space and can accommodate the request.
The booking process is straightforward, and guests can reserve their spot without paying upfront. By following these simple steps, travelers can secure their place on this exciting South Valley tour of Cusco.
Inca Hydraulic Engineering
The Inca civilization was renowned for its exceptional hydraulic engineering feats, exemplified by the archaeological site of Tipon.
This impressive complex features a series of terraced canals, aqueducts, and stone-lined pools that demonstrate the Inca’s mastery of water management.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate system of cascading water channels, which not only served practical purposes but also held symbolic and ceremonial significance.
The engineering prowess displayed at Tipon highlights the Inca’s deep understanding of hydrology and their ability to harness natural resources to create sophisticated water infrastructure.
This archaeological treasure offers a glimpse into the Inca’s remarkable achievements in hydraulic engineering.
Wari Civilization
The Wari civilization was a pre-Inca state that flourished in the central Andes of Peru from the 7th to 11th centuries CE. They were known for their advanced urban planning, sophisticated infrastructure, and expansive territorial control.
The Wari capital, Pikillaqta, was a well-organized city that featured residential areas, administrative centers, and religious structures. The Wari people were skilled artisans and engineers, as evidenced by their impressive architectural achievements and complex irrigation systems.
Although their empire eventually declined, the Wari left a lasting legacy that influenced the rise of the Inca civilization that followed.
Colonial Art
In Andahuaylillas, the tour you will have the opportunity to admire the baroque-style paintings and gold-leaf altars that reflect the colonial art legacy.
This small colonial town is home to the Church of San Pedro, which boasts an impressive interior adorned with intricate religious artwork. The opulent altar and ornate pulpit showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the era, blending European influences with local Andean elements.
Visitors can explore the church’s rich history and appreciate the remarkable preservation of this colonial architectural gem.
The Andahuaylillas stop provides a captivating glimpse into the artistic and cultural fusion that emerged during the colonial period in the Cusco region.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking, with visitors expected to cover approximately 2-3 miles over the course of the 6-hour itinerary. The terrain includes a mix of paved paths and uneven ground at the archaeological sites.
Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $20 per person, regardless of age or student status. The tour does have free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour includes an optional tasting of chicharron, so some snacks and beverages may be provided by the supplier as well.
Is There a Bathroom Stop During the Tour?
The tour includes a bathroom stop during the day. Participants will have the opportunity to use restroom facilities at various points along the itinerary, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout the 6-hour tour.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Visitors With Disabilities?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or visually impaired individuals, as the itinerary involves visiting archaeological sites with uneven terrain. Participants over 70 years old may also face challenges on this active tour.
Cusco: South Valley | Tipon – Pikillaqta |
Recap
The Cusco South Valley tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Tipon and Pikillaqta. Visitors can marvel at the advanced Inca hydraulic engineering and the Wari civilization’s urban planning, providing a fascinating insight into the rich history and cultural significance of the Andean region. This tour is an enriching experience for anyone interested in the ancient civilizations of Peru.
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