Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Cusco, the Half Day Tour of the Southern Valley promises an immersive experience. From the stunning Inca agricultural engineering of Tipon to the well-preserved pre-Inca city of Pikillaqta, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. But the true highlight may be the remarkable 17th-century "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" in Andahuaylillas, where visitors can discover the artistic and architectural wonders that have captivated travelers for centuries.

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Key Points

A half-day tour focusing on the Southern Valley of Cusco, visiting Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.
Priced at $31.00 per person with a 6-hour duration and free cancellation with full refund 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include Inca ruins, agricultural terraces, and the 17th-century "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" in Andahuaylillas.
Tour includes a live bilingual (Spanish and English) guide to enhance understanding of the historical and cultural significance.
Transportation and entry fees are included in the tour price, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The half-day tour of the Southern Valley includes visits to the archaeological sites of Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.

Explore the archaeological gems of Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas on this captivating half-day tour of the Southern Valley.

Priced from $31.00 per person, the 6-hour tour offers free cancellation with a full refund if cancelled 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour departs from Centro Histórico and concludes at Plaza de Armas. A live, bilingual tour guide in Spanish and English is included.

Transportation and entry fees for the tourist ticket and optional museum/chapel visits are also provided.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Highlights

This half-day tour takes visitors to three notable sites in the Southern Valley.

The first stop is Tipon, an Inca agricultural and hydraulic engineering marvel featuring terraced hillsides and an intricate irrigation system.

Next, the group explores Pikillaqta, a well-preserved pre-Inca city with remnants of stone buildings, plazas, and roads.

The final destination is Andahuaylillas, a charming town known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" due to its lavishly decorated 17th-century church.

The tour concludes at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco’s historic center.

Guidance and Language

A live tour guide is available to accompany visitors on this half-day excursion, providing commentary in both Spanish and English.

This ensures guests can fully understand and appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited. The official bilingual tour guide is included in the package, making it a seamless and informative experience for travelers.

Whether you’re a Spanish or English speaker, you’ll have a knowledgeable expert to guide you through the Inca ruins, agricultural terraces, and the renowned Sistine Chapel of America, enhancing your understanding of Cusco’s rich heritage.

Transportation and Entry Fees

Tourist transport is provided for the duration of the half-day Cusco Southern Valley tour.

The entry fees for this tour are as follows:

Tourist ticket: 70 soles for nationals, 130 soles for foreigners
Optional entry to Andean Rites Museum: 5 soles
Optional entry to the Chapel in Andahuaylillas: 10 soles for nationals, 18 soles for foreigners

All transportation and entry fees are included in the tour price, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience for visitors to explore the highlights of the Cusco Southern Valley.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tipon: Agricultural Terraces and Inca Architecture

Tipon boasts an impressive array of agricultural terraces and expertly-crafted Inca architecture. These terraces, carved into the hillside, were used for farming and demonstrate the Inca’s advanced irrigation system. Visitors can wander through the ruins, marveling at the ingenuity of the Inca engineers.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Terraces | Carved into the hillside for farming |

| Irrigation | Sophisticated system to water the crops |

| Architecture | Precisely engineered Inca structures |

| Views | Stunning vistas of the surrounding valley |

Exploring Tipon provides a glimpse into the agricultural prowess and building expertise of the Inca civilization.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Pikillaqta: Well-Preserved Pre-Inca City

Pikillaqta, a well-preserved pre-Inca city, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Wari civilization.

Pikillaqta, a well-preserved pre-Inca city, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Wari civilization.

Visitors can explore the site’s impressive ruins, which include:

Extensive plazas and administrative buildings
Intricate irrigation systems and terraced agriculture
Remnants of residential sectors and workshops

The city’s strategic location, advanced urban planning, and advanced engineering feats offer insights into the Wari’s influential regional power before the rise of the Inca Empire.

Touring Pikillaqta provides a unique glimpse into the rich pre-Columbian history of the Cusco region.

Andahuaylillas: The Sistine Chapel of America

The idyllic village of Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America," enchants visitors with its magnificent 17th-century church.

This architectural gem features exquisite Andean-Baroque art, including intricate frescoes, gilded altars, and impressive murals.

Stepping inside, you’ll be awestruck by the church’s striking interior, which rivals the beauty of its more famous Italian counterpart.

A visit to Andahuaylillas provides a unique cultural experience, allowing you to explore the remarkable fusion of Inca and Spanish influences that shaped this captivating place.

An optional entry fee grants access to the church’s chapel.

Important Information

Visitors should be aware that this half-day tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, as it involves some walking and uneven terrain.

This half-day tour involves walking and uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.

To make the most of this tour, it’s recommended to:

Bring your passport or ID card as required for the tourist ticket.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather.
Pack any personal items you might need, as the tour’s itinerary is subject to change.

While the sites promise a memorable experience, it’s important to check availability and starting times to ensure a seamless and enjoyable tour.

Things To Know

Can I Use the Tour Company’s Luggage Storage During the Tour?

The tour company does not offer on-site luggage storage during the tour. Participants will need to make their own arrangements for storing any bags or belongings they do not wish to carry with them.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can likely be extended to include additional sites. Customers should inquire with the tour company about customizing the itinerary and associated costs. Extending the tour may require a longer duration and additional fees.

Do I Need to Bring a Snack or Lunch for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any meals, so you’ll need to bring your own snacks or lunch. There are local eateries at some sites where you can buy food, but it’s best to come prepared.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The average group size for this tour is not specified. However, most small-group tours in the area accommodate around 8-15 participants to provide a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. Pricing is fixed at $31 per person, with no special rates available. However, the tour does provide free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Sum Up

The Half Day Tour of the Southern Valley offers an immersive experience in Cusco’s rich cultural heritage. From the impressive Inca agricultural engineering at Tipon to the well-preserved pre-Inca city of Pikillaqta and the stunning 17th-century church in Andahuaylillas, this tour provides an affordable and convenient way to explore the region’s remarkable history and architecture. With bilingual guidance and transportation, it’s an enriching journey for anyone interested in Cusco’s enduring legacy.