Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of the South Valley near Cusco on this captivating half-day tour. Uncover the terraced wonders of Tipon, the pre-Inca urbanscape of Pikillaqta, and the breathtaking Andahuaylillas Church – the "Sistine Chapel of America." With a knowledgeable guide, convenient transportation, and all-inclusive pricing, this tour offers an immersive experience that’s sure to leave you wanting more. Discover the region’s remarkable architectural and cultural gems and gain insights into its fascinating past.

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Good To Know

A half-day tour from Cusco to the South Valley region, including visits to Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas, with professional guide and hotel transfers.
Tour highlights include the terraced landscape and irrigation system of Tipon, the pre-Inca urban center of Pikillaqta, and the "Sistine Chapel of America" in Andahuaylillas.
Priced at $61.83 per person, available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Suitable for travelers with a reasonable fitness level, but not recommended for wheelchair users.
Tours depart from centrally located hotels in Cusco’s Centro Histórico and return to El Regocijo Square after the guided visits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This half-day tour from Cusco takes visitors to the South Valley region, providing a chance to explore notable Inca and pre-Inca sites.

Priced from $61.83 per person, the 6-hour tour is available in English and Spanish. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for flexibility.

Visitors are picked up from centrally located Cusco hotels and transported between the sites of Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.

The tour includes a professional guide, entrance fees, and hotel transfers, though food, drinks, and tips are excluded.

A reasonable fitness level is required, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

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

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from centrally located hotels in Cusco’s Centro Histórico.

The first stop is Tipon, known for its 12 terraces and working irrigation system spread across 240 hectares at an altitude of 3,316 meters.

Tipon, renowned for its 12 terraces and functional irrigation system, spans an impressive 240 hectares at an elevation of 3,316 meters.

Next, the group visits Pikillaqta, a pre-Inca urban center significant for the Huari culture from the 6th-9th centuries, covering 50 hectares at 3,250 meters.

The final stop is Andahuaylillas, home to the "Sistine Chapel of America," a 16th-century church featuring Renaissance and Baroque styles.

After the guided tours, the tour returns to El Regocijo Square in Cusco.

Tipon: Terraced Wonders

Tipon is a remarkable archaeological site located in the South Valley of Cusco, renowned for its extraordinary terraced landscape.

Spanning an area of 240 hectares at an altitude of 3,316 meters, Tipon’s impressive features include:

12 terraces, expertly engineered with a functioning irrigation system that continues to amaze visitors.
The terraces were likely used for agricultural purposes, demonstrating the advanced water management practices of the Inca civilization.
Guided tours allow visitors to explore the site and learn about its historical significance, providing a glimpse into the ingenuity of the Inca people.

Pikillaqta: Pre-Inca Urban Center

After exploring the terraced wonders of Tipon, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Pikillaqta.

This pre-Inca urban center is significant for the Huari culture, which flourished between the 6th and 9th centuries. Spanning 50 hectares at an altitude of 3,250 meters, Pikillaqta offers a glimpse into the architectural and urban planning skills of the Huari people.

Visitors can expect a 40-minute guided tour of the site, which includes witnessing the impressive remnants of buildings, plazas, and the intricate water management system.

A 40-minute guided tour showcasing the impressive ruins, plazas, and intricate water system of the pre-Inca urban center of Pikillaqta.

The tour then moves on to the final stop, the Andahuaylillas Church.

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Andahuaylillas: The "Sistine Chapel of America"

Following the journey through the South Valley, the tour arrives at the final destination: Andahuaylillas. This 16th-century church is affectionately known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its ornate interior.

The tour guide leads visitors on a 40-minute guided exploration of this remarkable structure:

Visitors marvel at the church’s Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles, blending indigenous and European influences.
The guide highlights the intricate frescoes, gilded altars, and exquisite artwork that adorn the church’s interior.
Tourists learn about the church’s historical significance and its role in the region’s cultural heritage.

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Transportation Details

The tour includes transportation between the three main sites by van.

The journey from Tipon to Pikillaqta takes around 40 minutes. Afterward, it’s a 25-minute drive to reach Andahuaylillas.

The trip from Tipon to Pikillaqta takes around 40 minutes, followed by a 25-minute drive to Andahuaylillas.

Finally, the return trip to El Regocijo Square in Cusco’s historic center takes 75 minutes.

Transportation is provided as part of the tour package, allowing visitors to focus on exploring the sites without the hassle of arranging their own logistics.

The vans are comfortable and driven by experienced local drivers, ensuring a smooth and efficient transfer between the destinations.

Inclusions

The tour package includes several key inclusions to provide a comprehensive South Valley Cusco experience.

These include:

Hotel pickup and drop-off at El Regocijo Square, ensuring a hassle-free transportation experience.
Professional tour guide services, providing valuable insights and commentary throughout the tour.
Cusco tourist ticket, granting access to the designated sites on the itinerary.

Notably, the tour excludes food, drinks, and gratuities, allowing visitors to personalize their experience.

With these inclusions, the South Valley Cusco Half Day Tour offers a well-rounded and convenient exploration of the region’s cultural and historical highlights.

Important Information

Although the South Valley Cusco Half Day Tour is an excellent way to explore the region’s historical and cultural highlights, it’s important to note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain. Participants should have a reasonable fitness level to navigate the sites comfortably. Children under 2 can join for free if seated on a parent’s lap. Visitors should bring essential items like their passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect themselves from the sun.

| Requirement | Details |

| — | — |

| Fitness Level | Reasonable |

| Wheelchair Accessibility | Not suitable |

| Children | Under 2 free on lap |

| Recommended Items | Passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Based on the tour overview, pets are not mentioned as being allowed on the tour. The tour details indicate it is not suitable for wheelchair users, so it’s likely pets would not be permitted either. Participants should check with the tour operator to confirm if pets can be brought along.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a fixed 6-hour half-day itinerary from Cusco to the South Valley sites. Extending the tour isn’t available based on the information provided.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?

Tickets don’t need to be purchased in advance. The tour operator offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option, allowing travelers to secure their spot without upfront payment. Advance booking isn’t required, but it’s recommended to ensure availability.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?

The tour does not include any meals. However, the guide can assist in recommending nearby restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan options. Participants are responsible for arranging and purchasing their own meals during the tour.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, private tours can be requested for this South Valley tour from Cusco. Travelers can opt for a private tour instead of a group tour, which may come at an additional cost.

The Sum Up

The South Valley Cusco Half Day Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and architectural wonders. From the impressive terraced ruins of Tipon to the stunning Andahuaylillas Church, this tour provides an immersive experience for history enthusiasts. With professional guidance, convenient transportation, and all-inclusive pricing, it’s an excellent opportunity to discover the cultural treasures of the South Valley near Cusco.