The South Valley of Cusco invites visitors on a captivating journey through Peru’s rich history and culture. Home to remarkable archaeological sites like Andahuaylillas, Pikillaqta, and Tipon, this region showcases the ingenuity and artistry of ancient civilizations. From the stunning "Sistine Chapel of America" church to the expansive Wari urban center and Inca irrigation systems, each site offers a unique glimpse into the past. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply curious to explore, the South Valley promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to delve deeper into its remarkable legacy.
Key Points
- The South Valley of Cusco features several notable archaeological sites, including Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas, known for their ancient Inca and Wari structures.
- Tipon showcases the Incas’ impressive water management and irrigation systems, while Pikillacta was a significant pre-Inca Wari urban center.
- Andahuaylillas church, nicknamed the "Sistine Chapel of America," blends indigenous and colonial art and architecture.
- The tour offers a chance to explore the region’s diverse cultural heritage and sample local cuisine, such as pork cracklings.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, and entry tickets to the key sites, providing a comprehensive and convenient experience.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Inclusions
- Important Information
- Customer Reviews
- Pickup and Transportation
- Archaeological Complexes
- Local Cuisine
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Visit These Sites on My Own or Do I Need a Guide?
- Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Archaeological Sites?
- What Is the Weather Like During the Tour Season?
- Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Items at the Sites?
- What Is the Best Way to Tip the Tour Guide and Driver?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The South Valley of Cusco tour offers an opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage. Spanning 7 hours, the tour takes visitors to archaeological sites like Tipon and Pikillacta, as well as the architectural gem of Andahuaylillas.
Priced between $30 and $24 per person, the tour provides great value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment, and the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, entry tickets, and lunch.
While the tour may not be suitable for certain groups, the overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and fascinating historical sites visited.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Itinerary Highlights
On the South Valley of Cusco tour, visitors begin their journey with pickup from central hotels in Cusco.
The first stop is the Tipón Archaeological Complex, renowned for its ancient irrigation system.
Next, they’ll explore the Pikillacta pre-Inca Wari urban center, featuring over 1,000 structures.
The final highlight is the Andahuaylillas church, nicknamed the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its ornate altars and vibrant ceilings.
After lunch in the pork cracklings-famous town of Saylla, the tour returns to Cusco, ending just one block from the main square.
- Tipón Archaeological Complex
- Pikillacta pre-Inca Wari center
- Andahuaylillas "Sistine Chapel of America"
Inclusions
Pickup from central hotels, a minivan transporting a maximum of 18 people, and a bilingual (English and Spanish) tour guide are all included in this South Valley of Cusco tour.
Travelers will also receive a partial tourist ticket for Pikillacta and Tipon, costing 70.00 soles, as well as an entrance ticket to Andahuaylillas, priced at 15.00 soles.
Lunch, drinks, and snacks are provided throughout the day, ensuring a complete and satisfying experience.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 70 years or pregnant women, and the use of drones isn’t permitted.
Important Information
Age and physical restrictions apply, as the tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 70 years or pregnant women.
Plus, the use of drones is strictly prohibited during the tour. Participants should check availability for their desired date and group size.
The tour includes:
- Pickup from central hotels in Cusco
- Minivan transportation with a maximum capacity of 18 people
- Bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish)
- Partial tourist ticket for Pikillacta and Tipon
- Entrance ticket to Andahuaylillas
- Lunch, drinks, and snacks
Customer Reviews
Customers have provided an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars for this South Valley of Cusco tour, based on 13 reviews.
Reviewers praised the knowledgeable guide who led them through the fascinating archaeological sites. However, some noted a language barrier and wished for more exploration time at the ruins.
The transportation received a 4.5/5 rating, while the value for money earned a 4/5.
Highlights included the ornate Andahuaylillas chapel, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America," and the ancient irrigation system at Tipon.
Pickup and Transportation
For this South Valley of Cusco tour, the day begins with convenient hotel pickup from central Cusco locations.
Travelers are transported in a comfortable minivan, which can accommodate up to 18 people.
The tour features the following transportation highlights:
- Efficient minivan transport to ensure a seamless journey
- Knowledgeable bilingual guide to provide insights throughout the tour
- Maximum group size of 18 participants for a more personalized experience
The transportation arrangements are designed to make the most of the day, allowing visitors to focus on exploring the fascinating archaeological sites and cultural attractions of the South Valley.
Archaeological Complexes
The tour then takes visitors to explore the remarkable archaeological complexes of the South Valley.
First, they visit Tipón, known for its ancient Inca irrigation system and terraced agricultural fields.
Next, they explore Pikillacta, a pre-Inca Wari urban center with over 1,000 structures, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
The final stop is the picturesque village of Andahuaylillas, home to the "Sistine Chapel of America," a church featuring ornate altars and colorful ceilings that showcase the blending of indigenous and colonial art.
These archaeological sites offer a captivating window into the diverse cultural heritage of the South Valley.
Local Cuisine
After exploring the archaeological wonders, the tour takes visitors to the town of Saylla, famous for its delicious pork cracklings.
The local cuisine of the South Valley is a delightful blend of Andean and Spanish influences. Visitors can savor:
- The renowned chicharrón, or pork cracklings, which are a staple in the region
- Cuy, or roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish
- A variety of hearty stews and soups, featuring local ingredients like potatoes, corn, and quinoa
These flavorful dishes showcase the rich culinary heritage of the area, offering a delightful complement to the cultural and historical experiences of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit These Sites on My Own or Do I Need a Guide?
You can visit these sites independently, but a guided tour is recommended to fully appreciate the archaeological significance and historical context. A local guide can provide valuable insights and ensure a more enriching experience.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Archaeological Sites?
According to the tour information, drones are not allowed at the archaeological sites. While specific photography restrictions are not mentioned, visitors should be aware of and follow any on-site rules regarding taking photos.
What Is the Weather Like During the Tour Season?
The tour season typically experiences mild temperatures and low rainfall, making it an ideal time to explore the archaeological sites. Daytime highs average around 65-75°F (18-24°C), with cooler mornings and evenings.
Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Items at the Sites?
Visitors can purchase souvenirs and local crafts at the archaeological sites, such as Andahuaylillas and Pikillaqta. These on-site markets offer a chance to support local artisans and bring home unique mementos from the tour.
What Is the Best Way to Tip the Tour Guide and Driver?
The best way to tip the tour guide and driver is to have some local currency on hand. A typical tip range is 10-20% of the total tour cost, which can be given directly to them at the end of the tour.
South Valley of Cusco. Andahuaylillas, Pikillaqta, Tipon
Recap
The South Valley of Cusco is a remarkable region that offers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s rich history and cultural heritage. From the stunning Andahuaylillas church to the impressive archaeological sites of Pikillacta and Tipón, visitors can enjoy the ingenuity and artistry of past civilizations. This captivating tour provides an opportunity to explore the region’s diverse treasures and gain a deeper understanding of Peru’s enduring legacy.
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