Magpie

South Valley Half-Day Tour

From$67
4 hours
Cusco, Peru

About this activity

Experience the rich history and culture of Peru's South Valley on this half-day tour from Cusco, visiting Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas.

Highlights

  • Explore ancient Incan agricultural terraces at Tipon
  • Discover the pre-Incan city of Pikillacta
  • Visit the 'Sistine Chapel of the Andes' in Andahuaylillas
  • Enjoy scenic views of the Peruvian countryside
  • Learn about Incan history and culture from a local guide

Full description

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Peru's South Valley on this half-day tour from Cusco. Visit Tipon, an ancient Incan agricultural site with impressive terraces; explore Pikillacta, a pre-Incan city showcasing unique architecture; and admire the Andahuaylillas Church, often called the 'Sistine Chapel of the Andes' for its stunning art. Enjoy scenic views of the Peruvian countryside and gain insights into Incan history and culture from a knowledgeable local guide. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to delve deeper into Peru's heritage.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Cusco
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

We will pick you up from the hotel located in the city of Cusco. We will go to the South Valley of Cusco in a 1-hour journey, taking the highway until we reach our first stop. We are going to start the tour visiting the temple of water of Tipón, located 16 miles southeast of the city. This citadel, most dedicated to the water cult, has a big area with 12 incredible terraces. Their irrigation system is even more impressive, because it’s still working and it continues to irrigate crops until today. Another interesting fact is that the Inca Trail is part of it, and the entire site has an area of 24 acres, with an average altitude of 3,316 m.a.s.l.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
2

The next stop is at Pikillaqta, an important pre-Inca urban Centre, and a significant place for Huari Empire development between the 6th and 9th centuries. This archaeological site is located at 3,250 m.a.s.l., with an area of 50 acres.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
3

Then, we will continue the route to the town of Andahuaylillas. This traditional Andean town has an amazing chapel, well-known as “The Sistine Chapel of America”, built circa in the sixteenth century. This place is truly amazing, with Renaissance style outside and Baroque style inside, with an incredible decoration of gold, murals and canvases all around. At the end of this amazing experience, you will be taken to Plaza El Regocijo, one block from Plaza de Armas.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for weather conditions.
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Photography is allowed; please be respectful of local customs.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • Carry a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can vary.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Infants Required On Laps

Good to know

  • You should bring sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
  • At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to Plaza Regocijo, one block from Plaza de Armas.
  • If you choose to book without tickets included, you`ll have the flexibility to buy them as we go. Please be aware that purchasing Boleto Turistico Parcial on the day will involve queuing at the first ruin we visit, which covers the rest of ruins. It`s important to note that ticket purchases on the day must be made in cash using Peruvian soles, the local currency. We are unable to accept US dollars or any other forms of payment for these on-the-spot purchases.

Additional information

You should bring sunglasses, sunscreen, hat At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to Plaza Regocijo, one block from Plaza de Armas. If you choose to book without tickets included, you`ll have the flexibility to buy them as we go. Please be aware that purchasing Boleto Turistico Parcial on the day will involve queuing at the first ruin we visit, which covers the rest of ruins. It`s important to note that ticket purchases on the day must be made in cash using Peruvian soles, the local currency. We are unable to accept US dollars or any other forms of payment for these on-the-spot purchases.
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