Uncover the remarkable archaeological wonders of Peru’s past with the Half-Day Tour of Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas. This compact yet comprehensive excursion takes travelers on a journey through the advanced Inca agricultural practices, the impressive remnants of the Wari civilization, and the artistic grandeur of a church often dubbed the "Sistine Chapel of America." With a professional guide to provide insights, this tour promises an enriching exploration of Peru’s rich history. For those seeking an immersive cultural experience at an affordable price, this shared tour offers an enticing opportunity to explore the heart of the Andean nation’s archaeological legacy.
Key Points
- A half-day tour covering the archaeological sites of Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas Church, showcasing Inca and Wari cultural heritage.
- Tour duration of 4 hours, available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
- Guided tours at each site, providing detailed insights into the architectural and engineering feats of the Inca and Wari civilizations.
- Opportunity to visit the "Sistine Chapel of America," Andahuaylillas Church, known for its artistic and cultural significance.
- Comfortable transportation via van, allowing for efficient travel between the sites and focus on exploration.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Tipón
- Pikillaqta
- Andahuaylillas
- Transportation Details
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Preparation and Restrictions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
- What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
- Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
- Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group Only?
- How Far in Advance Should I Book This Tour to Ensure Availability?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Half-Day 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
This half-day tour takes visitors to three fascinating historical sites located outside of Cusco.
Priced from $35 per person, the tour lasts 4 hours and is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic center is included, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour covers the pre-Inca Wari site of Pikillaqta, the 500-year-old agricultural terraces of Tipon, and the stunning Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America."
Throughout the journey, a professional guide provides insights into the sites’ history and cultural significance.
This tour offers an engaging exploration of Cusco’s rich archaeological heritage.
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Itinerary Highlights
The half-day tour begins at Tipon, a site located 27 kilometers from Cusco. This Inca site features 12 cultivated terraces and an impressive irrigation system over 500 years old. Visitors can explore this for 30 minutes on a guided tour.
Next, the group travels to Pikillaqta, a Wari culture site predating the Inca. This expansive area covers over 3,000 hectares and contains 700 stone and mud structures, including a carved condor head. The 50-minute guided tour provides insight into this important pre-Inca civilization.
| Site | Distance from Cusco | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Tipon | 27 km | 30 minutes |
| Pikillaqta | N/A | 50 minutes |
| Andahuaylillas | 40 km | 45 minutes |
The tour concludes at the Church of Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its high-quality art and recently restored pipe organ. Visitors have 45 minutes to explore this unique site on a guided tour.
Tipón
Located 27 kilometers from Cusco, Tipon is an Inca site that captivates visitors with its 12 cultivated terraces and an impressive irrigation system over 500 years old.
The guided tour, lasting approximately 30 minutes, allows visitors to marvel at this well-preserved agricultural complex.
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The terraces were meticulously designed for efficient water management, demonstrating the Inca’s advanced understanding of hydrology and engineering.
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Tipon’s strategic location and unique features provide a glimpse into the Inca’s agricultural practices and their reverence for the land.
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This historical site offers a chance to take in the Inca’s architectural and engineering prowess, preserved through the centuries.
Pikillaqta
After visiting Tipon, the tour continues to Pikillaqta, a significant Wari culture site that predates the Inca.
Covering over 3,000 hectares, Pikillaqta features 700 stone and mud structures, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Wari civilization.
The highlight is the head of a condor carved into the rock, symbolizing the importance of this sacred site.
During the guided tour, visitors will learn about the Wari’s advanced urban planning and the site’s role in the pre-Inca history of the region.
The tour at Pikillaqta lasts approximately 50 minutes, providing an insightful glimpse into this lesser-known, yet captivating, archaeological wonder.
More Great Tours NearbyAndahuaylillas
From Pikillaqta, the tour travels just over 50 minutes to reach Andahuaylillas, a small town known for its impressive church.
The Church of Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America," is renowned for its high-quality art and recently restored original pipe organ. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church, learning about its fascinating history and stunning interior design.
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The church’s walls are adorned with vibrant murals and intricate religious artwork, showcasing the skill of colonial-era artists.
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The pipe organ, dating back to the 17th century, has been expertly restored, filling the church with its melodic tones.
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Andahuaylillas offers a chance to take in the rich cultural heritage of Peru, complementing the earlier visits to Tipón and Pikillaqta.
Transportation Details
The tour includes transportation via van throughout the journey, providing convenient pickup and drop-off at hotels within Cusco’s Historic Center.
The trip to Tipón takes approximately 30 minutes, while the drive to Pikillaqta is around 20 minutes.
At the end of the tour, the van will return you to your hotel in Cusco, with the total travel time back being 50 minutes.
The transportation is comfortable and efficient, allowing you to focus on exploring the fascinating pre-Inca and Inca sites without the hassle of navigating the roads yourself.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes pickup and drop-off services, along with a professional tour guide to accompany visitors throughout the excursion.
The tour also includes:
- Admission to the Andahuaylillas church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America"
- Gratuities for the guide and driver
- Snacks and beverages during the tour
However, the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) is required for entry to Tipón and Pikillaqta, and isn’t included in the tour price.
Plus, personal expenses aren’t covered, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Preparation and Restrictions
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended for the tour.
Participants should arrive at their hotel lobby 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and pets aren’t allowed.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Rates don’t apply for Peruvian citizens or foreigners who’ve stayed in Peru for more than 60 days.
Bringing personal items is permitted, but any expenses incurred during the tour are the responsibility of the participant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Customers cannot customize the tour itinerary on this shared group tour. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate special requests or offer a private tour with a more flexible schedule for an additional fee.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour has a shared group format, but the maximum group size is not specified in the provided information. The tour is conducted in a van, so the group size is likely limited to the vehicle’s capacity.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
There are no special discounts or offers mentioned for this tour. The price of $35 per person appears to be the standard rate. Additional costs include the Cusco Tourist Ticket required for Tipón and Pikillaqta.
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group Only?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. This option allows you to customize the experience and enjoy the sights without sharing the tour with other travelers. Private group bookings are available at an additional cost.
How Far in Advance Should I Book This Tour to Ensure Availability?
It’s recommended to book this tour at least 2-3 days in advance to ensure availability, as it’s a popular shared tour. Booking early allows you to secure your spot and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Half-Day Tour Tipón, Pikillaqta & Andahuaylillas Shared Tour
“My tour guide Jercy was excellent!!!”
Recap
This half-day tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Peru’s rich archaeological heritage. Visitors will explore the advanced Inca agricultural practices at Tipón, the extensive Wari culture at Pikillaqta, and the artistic splendor of Andahuaylillas Church. With a professional guide, travelers can enjoy Peru’s fascinating history, all within a convenient four-hour excursion from Cusco’s historic center for just $35 per person.
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