The Excursion to the South Valley promises a captivating journey through the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Cusco region. Travelers can explore well-preserved archaeological sites, marvel at impressive architecture, and uncover the intriguing stories that have shaped this remarkable destination. With a flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guides, this excursion offers a hassle-free opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of the area. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to learn about the beauty of the Andes, this excursion holds the potential to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- A 5.5-hour exploration of the South Valley, starting from $20 per person with a free cancellation policy and option to reserve and pay later.
- Highlights include visits to Tipon Archaeological Site, Pikillacta pre-Inca city, and Andahuaylillas Church, showcasing rich history and architectural marvels.
- Includes round-trip transportation and a bilingual guide to enhance understanding of the historical and cultural information.
- Offers flexibility to choose between partial or general Cusco tourist tickets based on individual interests.
- Provides opportunities to explore significant Inca and pre-Inca archaeological sites, such as the Tipon hydraulic system and the well-preserved Pikillacta city.
Excursion Overview
The excursion to the South Valley offers a captivating 5.5-hour exploration, with prices starting from $20.00 per person.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Alternatively, they can reserve their spot now and pay later, offering convenience and flexibility.
The excursion promises to uncover the rich history and architectural marvels of the region, including the Tipon Archaeological Site, Pikillacta, and the renowned Andahuaylillas Church.
With round-trip transportation and a bilingual guide provided, this excursion is an immersive and hassle-free way to discover the South Valley’s hidden gems.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Andahuaylillas.
Itinerary Highlights
Throughout the excursion, visitors can expect to enjoy the rich history and architectural marvels of the region.
The first stop is Tipon Archaeological Site, known as the "temple of the waters," featuring a sophisticated system of hydraulic channels and agricultural irrigation.
Next, the group will explore Pikillacta, one of the best-preserved pre-Inca cities, showcasing the impressive Wari Culture architecture near the Wakarpay lagoon.
The tour concludes at the renowned Andahuaylillas Church, famous for its religious art murals, baroque-style paintings, and gold leaf frames.
Transportation and Meeting Details
Pickup for the excursion is from your hotel in Cusco, scheduled between 8:30 to 9:00 am. Round trip transportation is included for the tour.
The excursion features:
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off
- Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Arrive at the South Valley sites in a timely manner
- Explore the archaeological wonders with ease
- Check availability for start times that suit your schedule
The transportation ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on the captivating South Valley sites during this 5.5-hour excursion.
Guide and Language
For the excursion, a live tour guide is available to lead the group in both Spanish and English. The guide is fluent in both languages, ensuring all participants can fully understand and engage with the historical and cultural information provided throughout the tour.
Having a bilingual guide allows the excursion to cater to a diverse audience, making it accessible to Spanish and English speakers alike. This multilingual approach enhances the overall experience, enabling guests to gain a deeper appreciation for the South Valley’s rich heritage and architectural wonders.
The guide’s expertise and language abilities play a crucial role in making the excursion informative and enjoyable for all.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTicket Information
Along With the guided commentary, the excursion offers two ticket options for visitors.
The partial Cusco tourist ticket costs 70 soles and is valid for selected sites.
Alternatively, the general tourist ticket is priced at 130 soles and provides access to 16 tourist sites over 10 calendar days, including the City Tour, Sacred Valley, South Valley, and various museums.
Notably, the entrance to the Andahuaylillas Church is included in the excursion.
Visitors have the flexibility to choose the ticket that best suits their interests and itinerary.
- Partial Cusco tourist ticket: 70 soles, valid for selected sites
- General tourist ticket: 130 soles, valid for 10 calendar days, covering 16 tourist sites
- Entrance to Andahuaylillas Church included
- Validity for City Tour, Sacred Valley, South Valley, and various museums
- Flexibility to choose the suitable ticket option
Inca Archaeological Sites
The excursion takes visitors to two important archaeological sites of the Inca empire. At Tipon, the "temple of the waters," guests can explore the remarkable hydraulic channels and agricultural irrigation systems built by the Incas. Then, the tour visits Pikillacta, one of the best-preserved pre-Inca cities, showcasing the impressive architecture of the Wari culture. The sites offer a glimpse into the engineering prowess and rich cultural heritage of these ancient civilizations.
| Site | Significance |
|---|---|
| Tipon | Features a complex system of hydraulic channels and agricultural irrigation |
| Pikillacta | One of the best-preserved pre-Inca cities, showcasing Wari Culture architecture |
Tipon Hydraulic System
A complex system of hydraulic channels and agricultural irrigation defines the archaeological site of Tipon.
This remarkable Inca engineering marvel, known as the "Temple of the Waters," features:
- An intricate network of aqueducts, canals, and fountains
- Impressive stone terraces used for crop cultivation
- Precise water management techniques to control flow and distribution
- Architectural elements designed to optimize agricultural practices
- A testament to the Inca’s advanced understanding of hydrology and land use.
The Tipon site offers visitors a glimpse into the Inca’s sophisticated water management systems and their reverence for the natural world.
Pikillacta Pre-Inca City
Pikillacta stands as one of the best-preserved pre-Inca cities, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Wari culture.
Located near the Wakarpay lagoon, this ancient settlement offers a glimpse into the sophisticated urban planning of the Wari people.
The site features a grid-like layout, with residential areas, administrative buildings, and religious structures all arranged in a well-organized manner.
Visitors can explore the remains of plazas, aqueducts, and stone structures that once housed a thriving population.
Pikillacta’s impressive scale and state of preservation make it a must-see destination for those interested in the rich pre-Columbian history of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Bring on the Excursion?
Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and snacks. It’s also recommended to bring the appropriate tourist tickets for the sites visited during the excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Both children and adults are welcome to participate. The excursion is suitable for all ages, allowing families to explore the historical sites together.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
Yes, the tour company offers a private excursion option. Guests can book a private South Valley tour with a dedicated guide and transportation, allowing for a more personalized experience.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour company allows travelers to customize the itinerary to their preferences. They can modify the sites visited or adjust the schedule to accommodate personal interests and needs.
Are There Any Dietary Requirements for the Excursion?
The excursion does not have any specific dietary requirements. Participants can bring their own snacks and meals if they have any dietary needs or preferences. The tour focuses on the cultural and historical aspects of the sites visited.
Recap
The Excursion to the South Valley offers a captivating 5.5-hour journey through the region’s rich history and architectural wonders. Priced from $20.00 per person, the tour includes visits to the remarkable Tipon Archaeological Site, the well-preserved pre-Inca city of Pikillacta, and the stunning Andahuaylillas Church. With round-trip transportation and a bilingual guide, participants can enjoy a hassle-free experience and discover the area’s cultural treasures with the convenience of a flexible cancellation policy.
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