The South Valley Tour from Cusco offers an engaging half-day excursion to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will discover three remarkable archaeological sites, each with its own unique history and significance. From the impressive Incan terraces of Tipon to the enigmatic Wari structures of Pikillaqta, the tour provides a captivating glimpse into the past. But the highlight may well be the stunning colonial-era church of Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes." With personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, this affordable tour promises an unforgettable experience for those eager to uncover the secrets of the South Valley.
Key Points
- A half-day group tour from Cusco that visits Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas, providing insights into Inca engineering, spirituality, and pre-Inca heritage.
- Maximum group size of 15 people for a personalized experience, with complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off within Cusco’s historic center.
- Tipon offers impressive agricultural terraces and water channels, showcasing the Inca’s advanced hydrology and land management practices.
- Pikillaqta, an ancient Wari settlement, highlights the region’s rich pre-Inca history and urban planning techniques.
- The Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America," features intricate frescoes, murals, and precious metal altars and sculptures.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Tipon Archaeological Site
- Pikillaqta Wari Structures
- Andahuaylillas Church
- Pricing and Tickets
- Pickup and Meeting
- Traveler Reviews
- Recap
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Join the Tour Without a Group?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
- What Type of Transportation Is Provided?
- Can I Take Pictures at the Sites?
- Is There Flexibility in the Tour Schedule?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks 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 group tour from Cusco takes visitors to three lesser-known Andean attractions: Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.
The small group size is limited to a maximum of 15 people, ensuring a personalized experience. Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off within Cusco’s historic center are provided.
Throughout the tour, a bilingual guide (English and Spanish) offers in-depth commentary on Incan history. Guests are given free time for independent exploration at each site.
The tour highlights the advanced Inca engineering at Tipon, the ancient structures of Pikillaqta, and the artistic significance of the Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America."
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Tipon Archaeological Site
The tour begins at the Tipon archaeological site on the outskirts of Cusco. This Inca site demonstrates advanced engineering with its impressive agricultural terraces and intricate water channels.
Tipon was likely a ritual garden, significant for spiritual practices related to water worship. Visitors can explore the well-preserved structures and learn about the site’s history from the knowledgeable guide.
Though the admission ticket isn’t included in the tour price, the 30-minute visit provides a glimpse into the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of hydrology and land management.
This lesser-known attraction offers a unique opportunity to experience the engineering marvels of the Inca civilization.
Pikillaqta Wari Structures
Located at an elevation of 3,350 meters above sea level in Quispicanchis Province, Pikillaqta features structures that have been inhabited for nearly 2,000 years, originally by the Wari culture.
The name Pikillaqta derives from the Quechua words meaning "flea town." This archaeological site provides a glimpse into the Wari civilization, which predated the Inca Empire.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved structures and gain insight into the advanced urban planning and construction techniques employed by the Wari people.
The tour allows approximately one hour to experience this lesser-known Andean attraction, offering an opportunity to step back in time and discover the region’s rich pre-Inca heritage.
Andahuaylillas Church
Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America," serves as the next stop on the South Valley Tour from Cusco.
This baroque church is renowned for its artistic and architectural significance.
The tour includes exploring the church’s interior, which features:
- Intricate frescoes and murals adorning the walls and ceilings
- Ornate altars and sculptures crafted from precious metals
- Delicate stained glass windows that filter in natural light
- A grand pipe organ that enhances the spiritual ambiance
Visitors have the opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural importance of this remarkable ecclesiastical site during the tour.
Pricing and Tickets
Priced from $23.59, the South Valley Tour from Cusco offers a comprehensive exploration of three lesser-known Andean attractions.
Entrance to the Iglesia de San Pedro in Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America," costs an additional S/. 15 per person.
Visitors also need to purchase a Cusco Tourist ticket, which comes in either an integral (S/. 130) or partial (S/. 70) option.
The tour doesn’t offer refunds, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
Pickup is provided from designated hotels within Cusco’s historic center, but the service doesn’t extend to private residences.
The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, ensuring a full day of discovery.
Pickup and Meeting
The South Valley Tour from Cusco provides complimentary hotel pickup within the city’s historic center.
However, the tour doesn’t offer pickup from private residences, such as Airbnb accommodations.
The tour departs promptly at 9:00 am, so it’s crucial for participants to be ready on time.
- Pickup locations are limited to designated hotels in Cusco’s historic center.
- The tour doesn’t offer pickup from private homes or vacation rentals.
- Participants should be prepared for the 9:00 am departure to ensure a punctual start.
- Ensuring a timely pickup and meeting point is essential for the smooth running of the South Valley Tour.
Traveler Reviews
According to traveler reviews, the South Valley Tour from Cusco has consistently received an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.
Positive feedback highlights the guide’s impressive knowledge of Incan history as well as the opportunity to explore lesser-known but beautiful sites. Some travelers noted occasional language barriers due to the guide’s English proficiency, though this didn’t detract from the overall experience.
Highlights mentioned include the scenic landscapes, family-friendly atmosphere, and the chance to visit attractions like the "Sistine Chapel of America" in Andahuaylillas.
Reviewers describe the tour as a comprehensive and highly enjoyable way to discover the South Valley region from Cusco.
Recap
The South Valley Tour from Cusco offers a comprehensive and engaging opportunity for visitors to explore lesser-known yet captivating Andean attractions beyond the city’s historic center.
The tour’s highlights include:
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Visiting three unique archaeological sites – Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas – each with its own historical significance and architectural marvels.
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Experiencing Inca engineering feats and cultural practices related to water worship and spirituality.
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Exploring the stunning baroque Iglesia de San Pedro, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America."
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Enjoying the benefit of a knowledgeable, bi-lingual guide who provides in-depth commentary on the region’s history.
While some guests noted minor language barriers, the overall experience is highly praised, making the South Valley Tour a family-friendly and immersive way to discover Cusco’s cultural riches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Join the Tour Without a Group?
No, the tour is only available as a group experience. Individual travelers cannot join the tour on their own. The tour has a maximum group size of 15 people.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join the group tour. Families with kids can enjoy the educational and cultural experience at the Andean attractions.
What Type of Transportation Is Provided?
The tour provides complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off within Cusco’s historic center. Transportation is likely a small group van or minibus, accommodating up to 15 people, to the lesser-known Andean attractions featured on the itinerary.
Can I Take Pictures at the Sites?
Yes, visitors can take photos at the tour sites. The tour allows ample time for independent exploration and picture-taking at the archaeological sites and historic church, though flash photography may be prohibited inside the church.
Is There Flexibility in the Tour Schedule?
There’s some flexibility in the tour schedule. Visitors can explore the sites independently during the allocated free time, though the overall itinerary and duration at each attraction are fixed to provide a comprehensive experience.
South Valley Tour From Cusco (Half Day)
“My wife and I enjoyed the tour. We were in the Cusco area for 11 days , if you have less time I would prioritize other sites. Majority of the guest…”
Recap
The South Valley Tour from Cusco offers a captivating half-day experience, exploring the region’s remarkable archaeological sites and cultural heritage. With personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, travelers can discover Incan history and stunning landscapes. Priced affordably, the tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the area’s rich past and appreciate its significance.
