South Valley Tour: Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas

The South Valley Tour offers an enriching exploration of Peru’s archaeological wonders. Travelers will visit Tipón, Pikillacta, and the stunning Andahuaylillas church, guided by a knowledgeable bilingual expert. Though food and drinks aren’t provided, the tour covers all entrance fees and transportation. With a maximum of 16 participants, visitors can expect an intimate atmosphere as they uncover the rich history of these remarkable sites. Preparing for the journey ahead, one can only imagine the captivating tales waiting to be discovered.

Key Points

• The South Valley Tour visits the archaeological sites of Tipón, Pikillacta, and the Andahuaylillas church, providing a comprehensive exploration of the region.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and covers entrance fees to the sites and church.
• The tour lasts approximately a full day, starting at 9:00 am, with a maximum capacity of 16 travelers.
• Travelers can choose a pickup point, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and well-organized transportation.

Tour Overview

The South Valley Tour takes visitors to three notable sites in the Cusco region: Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas.

The tour includes round-trip transportation and a bilingual guide. Entrance fees are covered for the archaeological sites of Tipón and Pikillacta, as well as the Church of Andahuaylillas.

Includes round-trip transportation, bilingual guide, and covers entrance fees for archaeological sites and church.

The tour lasts approximately a full day, with a 9:00 am start time. Confirmation is provided upon booking, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and has a maximum capacity of 16 travelers.

Reviews for this tour are excellent, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars across 5 total reviews.

Inclusions

This tour includes round-trip tourist transportation and a bilingual tourist guide who can provide information in both Spanish and English.

The tour also includes agency services, as well as entrance fees for the following sites:

1. Tipón archaeological site and Pikillacta: S/. 70 Soles

2. Church of Andahuaylillas: S/. 15 Soles

However, food, drinks, and snacks aren’t included in the tour package.

Travelers should come prepared with their own refreshments and meals, as the tour doesn’t provide catering services.

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers can select a pickup point for the South Valley Tour. The tour starts at 9:00 am, so travelers should be ready at their chosen location.

The tour operator provides round-trip tourist transportation, ensuring a convenient and seamless experience. The bilingual guide, fluent in both Spanish and English, will accompany the group throughout the tour, providing informative commentary.

With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate and personalized atmosphere. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, allowing travelers to plan their day accordingly.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility limitations should consider this during their booking.

Expectations

Once travelers have booked the South Valley Tour, they can expect to receive confirmation immediately.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility challenges may need to make alternate arrangements. The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Guests should be aware of the following:

1. Round-trip transportation is provided.

2. A bilingual guide will accompany the group.

3. Entrance fees to the archaeological sites and the church are included.

4. Food, drinks, and snacks aren’t provided.

Reviews and Ratings

A total of 5 reviews have been documented for the South Valley Tour, with an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars across platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor.

All of the reviews are positive, with no ratings below 3 stars. Travelers praise the knowledgeable bilingual guides, well-organized transportation, and the opportunity to explore important archaeological sites and the charming church of Andahuaylillas.

The tour’s inclusions, such as entrance fees and agency services, also receive favorable mentions.

Tipón Archaeological Site

The Tipón archaeological site, situated amidst the picturesque Andean landscape, showcases the remarkable engineering feats of the Inca civilization.

Visitors can explore an intricate system of agricultural terraces, canals, and water fountains that demonstrate the Inca’s advanced hydraulic engineering.

The site features:

1. Precisely engineered stone channels that channeled water through the terraces.

2. Meticulously crafted agricultural terraces for crop cultivation.

3. Well-preserved stone structures that housed the Inca nobility.

4. Stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Exploring Tipón provides a glimpse into the sophisticated infrastructure and urban planning of the Inca Empire.

Pikillacta

Pikillacta, an impressive Wari archaeological site, sits just south of Cusco, a testament to the architectural prowess of this pre-Inca civilization.

This vast urban complex, covering over 150 hectares, was once the administrative center of the Wari empire. Visitors can explore the site’s well-preserved remains, including plazas, storehouses, and residential areas.

The site’s intricate layout and engineering feats showcase the Wari’s advanced urban planning and construction techniques.

Pikillacta offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural achievements of this ancient civilization, providing a captivating experience for visitors.

Church of Andahuaylillas

One of the highlights of the South Valley Tour is the Church of Andahuaylillas, a stunning example of colonial architecture that captivates visitors.

The Church of Andahuaylillas, a stunning example of colonial architecture, is a highlight of the South Valley Tour.

Also known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas", the church features breathtaking frescoes, altarpieces, and ornate gilded carvings.

Some key features of the church include:

1. Intricately decorated interior with vibrant murals and ornate gold leaf.

2. Impressive Baroque-style altarpiece adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.

3. Stunning frescoes covering the church’s ceilings and walls.

4. Historical significance as a significant example of colonial religious architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour overview doesn’t mention any discounts or special offers. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly as they may have occasional promotions or deals available that aren’t listed on the description.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary can’t be customized. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate special requests or modifications within reason. It’s best to inquire about any flexibility when booking the tour.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking. Visitors can expect to walk for approximately 2-3 hours throughout the day, exploring the archaeological sites and visiting the church. The terrain is mostly flat and well-maintained.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit These Sites?

The best time to visit these sites is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is mild and sunny. Crowds are smaller, and the sites are more accessible during this peak tourist period.

Are Audio Guides Available for Self-Exploration of the Sites?

The tour doesn’t provide audio guides, but visitors can explore the sites independently. However, a bilingual guide is included to provide commentary and answer questions, enhancing the overall experience.

The Sum Up

The South Valley Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating archaeological sites of Tipón, Pikillacta, and the stunning Andahuaylillas church. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees covered, it’s an enriching experience for travelers. However, remember to bring your own food and drinks as they’re not provided. This tour provides an immersive look into the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage.