The South Valley Tour in Cusco is a unique experience that takes you through the region’s most stunning landscapes and lesser-known historical sites. This tour allows you to discover the ancient agricultural technology of the Incas, explore pre-Incan ruins, and admire a gem of colonial architecture. Here, we provide everything you need to know to make the most of this fascinating journey.
Our tour is an incredible half-day excursion with a fabulous itinerary, where you will experience a perfect combination of nature, culture, and history across three important stages: Inca, Pre-Inca, and Colonial.
We will pass through various towns that still preserve their colonial mansions. We will visit Tipón, a beautiful Inca temple dedicated to water, featuring an impressive irrigation system. Next, we will visit Pikillaqta, known as the “Cusco’s Great Wall,” a surprising urban center from the Pre-Inca Wari era.
Finally, we will visit Andahuaylillas, completing our South Valley Tour of Cusco, which is very popular for its artistic wealth, surrounded by unique artistic beauty.
Cusco hotel transfer.
08:00 AM.
Your incredible journey through the South Valley of Cusco begins at approximately 8:30 a.m. with a convenient pick-up from your selected hotel in the city of Cusco. In the morning, at the agreed time, our transportation will arrive to collect you and start the magical South Valley Tour Cusco. You’ll head southeast from Cusco along the Cusco–Puno route, venturing into one of the most fascinating areas of the region.
After about an hour of driving, you will reach the town of Tipon. From here, you will ascend the mountain in our vehicle to the archaeological site that shares the town’s name. Tipon is an impressive archaeological complex consisting of 12 agricultural terraces surrounded by beautifully crafted stone walls.
What stands out most about Tipon is its remarkable irrigation system, which is still in use today, serving the agricultural needs of the surrounding villages. As you explore, you’ll gain insight into how the Incas mastered water management to cultivate crops in this challenging terrain.
Following your visit to Tipon, you will return to the main road and proceed to Pikillaqta, a vast urban center that dates back to the pre-Incan Wari culture. This magical site was once a bustling city, consisting of more than 1,000 structures, including colcas (storage buildings), plazas, houses, temples, and streets.
These buildings, some of which were up to four stories high, offer a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity of the Wari people. As you walk through the ruins, you can imagine the vibrant life that once filled these now-abandoned streets.
The final stop on your South Valley Tour Cusco is the charming colonial town of Andahuaylillas. Here, you will visit the stunning 16th-century Church of Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of America” due to its exquisite interior. The church is adorned with beautifully decorated walls and ceilings from the 17th and 18th centuries, featuring gilded frames, baroque altarpieces, and breathtaking murals by the artist Tadeo Escalante.
In addition, as a special highlight, you will have the chance to admire the famous Pentalingu Gate, a unique relic that showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage. After your visit to Andahuaylillas, you will begin the journey back to Cusco, where our transportation will drop you off in the city center around 2:00 p.m.
The tour involves moderate walking, particularly at the archaeological sites. While it is not overly strenuous, some areas at Tipón are on a hillside, so a basic level of fitness is recommended.
Yes, this tour is suitable for visitors of all ages. However, be prepared for some walking at the archaeological sites, especially at Tipón, where you will explore the terraced landscape.
You can take photos at Tipón and Pikillaqta without restrictions. However, photography is not allowed inside the Church of Andahuaylillas to preserve the delicate artwork. You are welcome to photograph the exterior and surrounding areas.
Lunch is not included in the standard tour package, but you will have the opportunity to purchase snacks or meals at local establishments during or after the tour.
