The Cusco South Valley Tour offers a captivating exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Priced at $50 per person, this 5-hour excursion features visits to stunning Inca and pre-Inca sites, as well as the renowned Andahuaylillas Chapel. With hotel pickup, transportation, and a bilingual guide included, the tour provides a convenient and immersive way to discover the area’s architectural marvels. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- This 5-hour excursion from Cusco explores the Inca ruins of Tipón, Pikillacta, and the ornate Andahuaylillas Chapel.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and an English or Spanish-speaking guide, with a stop for free time in the traditional village of Saylla.
- Highlights of the tour include guided exploration of the water worship architecture at Tipón and the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" at Andahuaylillas.
- The total entry fees of S/ 80 (US$ 21.50) per person are included in the starting price of $50 per person.
- Travelers should bring their passport or ID and cash for any additional expenses during the tour.
Tour Overview
The Cusco South Valley Tour is a 5-hour excursion that takes visitors to explore the region’s rich Inca and colonial history.
Priced from $50 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and an English or Spanish-speaking guide.
Highlights include guided visits to the Inca archaeological sites of Tipón and Pikillacta, as well as the charming village of Andahuaylillas, home to a chapel known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas."
The tour offers free time in Saylla for local treats and beverages before returning to central Cusco.
Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.
Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary
After hotel pickup in central Cusco, the tour begins with a visit to Tipón, an Inca archaeological complex renowned for its worship of water. Next, the group explores Pikillacta, an important pre-Inca site dating back to the 15th century. The final stop is Andahuaylillas, a traditional village with a chapel known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" for its beautiful interior paintings.
| Site | Time Spent | Highlights |
| — | — | — |
| Tipón | 1.5 hours | Inca water worship architecture |
| Pikillacta | 1.5 hours | Pre-Inca archaeological site |
| Andahuaylillas | 1 hour | Ornate chapel interior |
The tour then returns to central Cusco near the Plaza de Armas.
Highlights
Though the Cusco South Valley Tour packs in a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, its key highlights include guided explorations of the awe-inspiring Inca site of Tipón and the lesser-known pre-Inca ruins of Pikillacta.
The tour also features:
-
A visit to the beautiful Andahuaylillas Chapel, often called the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" for its stunning colonial-era frescoes and artwork.
-
Free time in the traditional village of Saylla, where visitors can sample local treats and beverages.
-
Return to Cusco’s central Plaza de Armas, providing easy access to explore the city further.
Inclusions
As part of the Cusco South Valley Tour, the package includes hotel pickup and drop-off in central Cusco.
Travelers are transported by bus, accompanied by an English and Spanish-speaking guide.
Travelers are transported by bus, accompanied by an English and Spanish-speaking guide.
Entry fees to the archaeological sites of Tipón, Pikillacta, and the Andahuaylillas Chapel are also covered.
The total cost of these entry fees amounts to S/ 80 (US$ 21.50) per person.
Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, as well as cash for any additional expenses.
It’s important to ensure the contact number provided has the correct country code and is accessible via WhatsApp.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, as well as cash for any additional expenses.
Other important information includes:
-
Ensure the contact number provided is correct and includes the country code, as well as having WhatsApp installed for easier communication.
-
For last-minute reservations, check availability with the supplier by email before booking to confirm tour openings.
-
This tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off in central Cusco, allowing for a seamless start and end to the experience.
Exploring Tipón
The Inca archaeological complex of Tipón is renowned for its remarkable water management system, which was designed for the worship and reverence of this precious resource.
Visitors can explore the intricate network of canals, terraces, and fountains that once supplied water to the structures and gardens.
The tour guide will provide insights into the Inca engineering feats and the cultural significance of this site.
The tour guide will provide insights into the Inca engineering feats and the cultural significance of this remarkable water management system.
Tourists can witness the precision and craftsmanship of the Inca water architecture, gaining a deeper appreciation for their advanced hydraulic technology and reverence for nature.
Discovering Pikillacta
After exploring the remarkable Inca engineering at Tipón, the tour continues to the important pre-Incan archaeological site of Pikillacta.
Pikillacta dates back to the 15th century and was constructed by the Wari civilization, predating the Inca Empire. Visitors can explore this expansive site and discover:
-
The large central plaza, surrounded by various structures and complexes.
-
Impressive masonry work and architectural styles characteristic of the Wari culture.
-
Remnants of an advanced water management system, showcasing the engineering prowess of the Wari people.
The tour then proceeds to the final stop, the charming village of Andahuaylillas.
Visiting Andahuaylillas
After exploring the impressive Inca and Wari archaeological sites, the tour culminates in the charming village of Andahuaylillas.
Here, visitors will marvel at the stunning Andahuaylillas Chapel, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" for its exceptional frescoes and paintings.
Guests can wander through the traditional village, soaking in the local culture and trying regional snacks or beverages.
The final stop of the day, Andahuaylillas provides a glimpse into Peru’s colonial past and the country’s artistic heritage before the return to Cusco’s city center near the Plaza de Armas.
Since You Asked
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children and adults of all ages are welcome to participate. The tour is suitable for families and individuals alike.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any specific policies or restrictions regarding outside items.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration can’t be extended, but customers can explore the sites at their own pace during the free time. Extending the tour would require booking an additional private tour with the supplier.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, they do provide a free cancellation policy and allow customers to reserve their spot without paying upfront.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, the tour operator offers private tours. Private tours can be requested instead of the group tour. Private tours provide a more personalized experience and allow for customized itineraries to meet the traveler’s specific needs.
The Sum Up
The Cusco South Valley Tour offers a captivating exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. Highlighting the impressive Inca site of Tipón, the pre-Inca ruins of Pikillacta, and the ornate Andahuaylillas Chapel, this 5-hour excursion provides an immersive experience that’s priced at $50 per person. With hotel pickup, transportation, and a bilingual guide included, it’s an excellent way to discover the area’s unique historical treasures.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Morning in Cusco
- 08am Departure Rainbow Mountain Tour: Late Morning Tour
- Cusco: Sunrise at the Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca
- From Cusco: Magical Sunrise in a Captive Balloon
- From Cusco: Magical Sunrise in a Captive Balloon
- From Cusco: Magical Sunrise in Captive Balloon
- Cusco: Sunrise In Hot Air Balloon Flight | Over Cusco Canyon
More Tour Reviews in Cusco
Still browsing? Here are more Cusco experiences we've covered recently
- Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Full Day
- Peru & Bolivia Tour Package: 13 Days
- South 12 Days: Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco 4 Star Hotel.
- Andean Inca Marriage 6 Days – Shared
- Peru and Bolivia 16 Days 15 Nights
- Andean Inca Wedding 6 Days Basic
- Extraordinary Perú 13D | Huacachina,Uros,Machu Picchu |
- From Cusco: 4 Days Trekking to Choquequirao
- Adventure 13D in Peru and Bolivia – Machu Picchu |Hotel☆☆☆☆|
- Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu