Explore the South Valley

The South Valley, a captivating region in Peru, beckons travelers with its rich cultural heritage and archaeological wonders. This tour promises to unveil the remarkable site of Tipon, showcasing the Inca’s advanced hydraulic engineering, and the expansive ruins of Pikillacta, reflecting the sophistication of the Wari civilization. On top of that, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the stunning Andahuaylillas church, often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of America, adorned with exquisite baroque art. Explore this unique area and discover the beauty and history that make it a must-visit destination for any discerning traveler.

Key Points

• Discover the impressive Inca hydraulic engineering at the archaeological site of Tipon, featuring an intricate network of canals and fountains.
• Explore the expansive Wari ruins at Pikillacta, a former administrative center showcasing the architectural sophistication of this pre-Inca civilization.
• Marvel at the baroque splendor of the Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its gilded altars and breathtaking frescoes.
• Opt for a Cusco tourist ticket, either partial or general, to efficiently navigate the rich cultural heritage of the South Valley.
• Enjoy a comprehensive 1-day tour with hotel pick-up, bilingual guide, and safety measures like a first aid kit and oxygen supply.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

For just $20.00 per person, visitors can explore the South Valley on a thrilling 1-day tour starting at 8:00 am.

The small group is limited to 15 participants and led by a live, bilingual guide. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes hotel pick-up, a first aid kit, and oxygen.

Highlights include visiting the archaeological site of Tipon, exploring Pikillacta, and touring the renowned Sistine Chapel of America, all before returning to Cusco around 3:00 pm.

Itinerary Highlights

Visiting the archaeological site of Tipon, visitors marvel at the site’s impressive hydraulic system, which demonstrates the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization.

Next, they’ll explore Pikillacta, an expansive archaeological complex of the Wari culture. Here, they’ll uncover the remnants of this ancient civilization’s architectural marvels and gain insights into their ways of life.

The tour culminates with a visit to the Sistine Chapel of America, the Andahuaylillas church, renowned for its gilded altars and baroque murals that captivate visitors.

The day concludes with a return to Cusco around 3:00 pm, leaving ample time to further explore the historic city.

Inclusions

The tour package includes hotel pick-up, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s adventure.

A bilingual guide will accompany the group, providing insights and commentary in both Spanish and English.

For your safety, a first aid kit and oxygen are included.

Plus, the tour grants entry to the renowned Andahuaylillas church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its gilded altars and baroque murals.

With these comprehensive inclusions, you can look forward to an enriching and well-supported exploration of the South Valley.

Tourist Tickets

Travelers to the South Valley have two main ticket options to consider.

The partial Cusco tourist ticket costs 70 soles and allows visitors to select specific sites.

The general tourist ticket, priced at 130 soles, is valid for 10 days and grants access to 16 sites, including the City Tour, Sacred Valley, and various museums.

This ticket selection offers flexibility for travelers:

1. The partial ticket is ideal for those with a focused itinerary, while
2. The general ticket caters to those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of the region.
3. Both options provide an efficient way to navigate the South Valley’s rich cultural heritage.

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Booking Information

You can check availability and reserve the South Valley tour now with the option to pay later. Simply select the number of participants and the date you’d like to take the tour. Once you’ve made your selections, you can secure your spot with a reservation. The booking process is straightforward and convenient, allowing you to plan your adventure with ease.

Feature	Details
Availability	Check online for open tour dates
Reservation	Select participants and date
Payment	Option to pay now or later

With the booking information taken care of, you can look forward to an enriching exploration of the South Valley’s archaeological wonders and cultural treasures.

Archaeological Site of Tipon

Situated atop a scenic hillside, the archaeological site of Tipon captivates visitors with its remarkably preserved hydraulic system.

This Inca engineering marvel features an intricate network of canals, fountains, and terraces that once provided a reliable water supply to the ancient city.

Highlights of a visit include:

1. Exploring the complex network of canals and channels that channeled water from nearby springs.
2. Marveling at the precisely engineered stone terraces and fountains that showcase the Inca’s mastery of hydraulic technology.
3. Learning about the site’s significance as a ceremonial and agricultural center during the height of the Inca Empire.

Tipon’s well-preserved ruins offer a glimpse into the sophisticated water management practices of the Inca, making it a must-see destination on any South Valley tour.

Explore Pikillacta

Nestled just outside the town of Lucre, Pikillacta beckons visitors with its impressive Wari ruins, offering a captivating glimpse into the ancient Andean civilization.

Spanning over 50 hectares, the archaeological complex was once a major administrative and ceremonial center of the Wari Empire, which flourished between the 7th and 11th centuries.

Visitors can explore the intricate network of plazas, housing compounds, and religious structures, marveling at the architectural sophistication and engineering feats of the Wari people.

From the monumental gateways to the elaborately decorated ceramics and textiles, Pikillacta provides a window into the rich cultural heritage of this enigmatic pre-Inca culture.

Sistine Chapel of America

After exploring the remarkable Wari ruins of Pikillacta, the tour now heads to a captivating site known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" – the Andahuaylillas Church.

This renowned baroque marvel features:

1. Gilded altars adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.
2. Breathtaking frescoes that adorn the church’s ceilings and walls.
3. Ornate architectural details that showcase the artistic brilliance of the colonial era.

The Andahuaylillas Church is a true testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region, leaving visitors in awe of its stunning visual splendor.

The tour provides the opportunity to take in this captivating masterpiece, recognized as one of the most impressive ecclesiastical structures in all of South America.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Snacks and Water?

No, snacks and water are not included, but the tour provides hotel pickup, a bilingual guide, first aid kit, and oxygen. Guests can bring their own refreshments if desired.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement. Children of all ages are welcome to join the small group excursion. However, parents should consider the activity level when deciding if the tour is suitable for young children.

Are There Any Physical Activity Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any strict physical activity requirements, but participants should be able to walk for extended periods and navigate uneven terrain at archaeological sites. The tour’s pace is moderate, allowing for rest breaks.

Can We Purchase Additional Tourist Tickets During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase additional tourist tickets during the tour. The tour includes the option to buy a partial or general Cusco tourist ticket, providing access to more archaeological sites and museums as desired.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Participants can speak with the tour guide to inquire about extending the duration and discuss any additional costs or modifications to the itinerary.

Recap

The South Valley tour offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and archaeological wonders. From the Inca’s advanced hydraulic engineering at Tipon to the Wari civilization’s sophisticated ruins at Pikillacta, and the breathtaking Andahuaylillas church, this tour provides a comprehensive experience of the area’s unique history and beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: