Cusco: Excursion to the South Valley

Cusco’s rich cultural heritage takes center stage with the "Excursion to the South Valley." This 5.5-hour journey immerses visitors in the region’s storied past, from the advanced water management of the Tipon Archaeological Site to the well-preserved pre-Inca city of Pikillacta. But the true highlight lies in the breathtaking Andahuaylillas Church, often dubbed the "Sistine Chapel of America." With convenient hotel pickups, bilingual guides, and flexible booking, this excursion promises an enriching adventure – one that unveils the captivating artistry and history that define Cusco.

Key Points

• Excursion to the South Valley near Cusco showcases the region’s cultural heritage and archaeological wonders, including Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas Church.
• The 5.5-hour excursion is priced at €18.39 per person and includes hotel pickup and bilingual guides.
• Highlights of the excursion include the impressive hydraulic canal system at Tipon, the well-preserved pre-Inca city of Pikillacta, and the stunning Andahuaylillas Church.
• Visitors can explore the advanced water management techniques and urban planning of the Inca and pre-Inca civilizations.
• The excursion offers flexible options with free cancellation and pay-later booking, making it convenient for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

Cusco: Excursion to the South Valley offers an engaging exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Priced from €18.39 per person, this 5.5-hour adventure showcases the area’s archaeological wonders, including the temple-like Tipon and the well-preserved pre-Inca city of Pikillacta.

Visitors will also marvel at the Sistine Chapel-esque Andahuaylillas Church, known for its stunning religious art. Offering the convenience of hotel pickup and bilingual guides, the excursion allows visitors to explore Cusco’s history while enjoying the flexibility of free cancellation and pay-later booking.

With a range of ticket options, this tour caters to diverse interests and budgets.

Itinerary Highlights

The excursion begins with a morning hotel pickup between 8:30 and 9:00 AM, setting the stage for a captivating exploration of the South Valley’s cultural treasures.

The excursion begins with a morning hotel pickup, setting the stage for a captivating exploration of the South Valley’s cultural treasures.

The first stop is the Tipon Archaeological Site, known as the "temple of the waters," featuring a remarkable hydraulic canal system and agricultural irrigation.

Next, visitors will discover the well-preserved pre-Inca city of Pikillacta, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Wari Culture near the Wakarpay lagoon.

The final highlight is the Andahuaylillas Church, renowned as the "Sistine Chapel of America," boasting religious art murals, baroque paintings, and gold leaf frames.

The excursion concludes around 3:00 PM in Cusco.

1. Visit Tipon Archaeological Site

2. Explore Pikillacta pre-Inca city

3. Marvel at Andahuaylillas Church

4. Return to Cusco around 3:00 PM

Tipon Archaeological Site

The Tipon Archaeological Site, known as the "temple of the waters," is the first stop on this captivating excursion.

Visitors will marvel at the site’s impressive hydraulic canal system and intricate agricultural irrigation. This Inca engineering masterpiece showcases the advanced water management techniques of the empire.

Exploring the terraced stone structures and carefully designed waterways provides a glimpse into the sophisticated agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.

The site’s tranquil atmosphere and stunning mountain backdrop make it a truly awe-inspiring experience, setting the stage for the rest of the day’s adventures.

Pikillacta: The Pre-Inca City

After visiting the impressive Tipon Archaeological Site, the excursion continues to Pikillacta, one of the best-preserved pre-Inca cities in the region.

This ancient Wari settlement showcases remarkable architecture, including:

1. Well-planned urban layout with stone buildings and plazas.

2. Sophisticated drainage and water management systems.

3. Remnants of advanced agricultural practices and food storage.

4. Intricate stonework and decorative elements reflecting the Wari culture’s artistic prowess.

Exploring Pikillacta provides a glimpse into the sophisticated civilizations that thrived in the Cusco region long before the rise of the Inca Empire.

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Andahuaylillas Church

After visiting the impressive Tipon Archaeological Site and the well-preserved pre-Inca city of Pikillacta, the excursion takes visitors to the renowned Andahuaylillas Church, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America."

This 17th-century marvel features stunning religious art murals, baroque-style paintings, and gold leaf frames. Regarded as one of the most beautiful churches in Peru, the Andahuaylillas Church showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage and artistry.

Visitors can admire the intricate details and craftsmanship that have earned this church its prestigious nickname, making it a highlight of the South Valley excursion.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The excursion to the South Valley includes several key features to enhance the experience.

The excursion to the South Valley includes several key features to enhance the experience.

The tour provides:

1. Hotel pickup and round-trip transportation, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

2. A bilingual guide to provide expert commentary and insights along the way.

3. A first-aid kit, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all participants.

4. Entrance to the Andahuaylillas Church, a highlight of the journey known as the "Sistine Chapel of America".

These inclusions create a comprehensive and worry-free experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the rich cultural and historical wonders of the South Valley.

Ticket Information

What are the ticket options for this excursion? There are two main types of tourist tickets visitors can purchase to access the sites on this South Valley excursion. The partial tourist ticket costs 70 soles and is valid for select sites, while the general tourist ticket costs 130 soles and provides access to 16 tourist sites over 10 calendar days, including the City Tour and Sacred Valley.

| Ticket Type | Cost (soles) | Validity |

|————-|————–|———-|

| Partial | 70 | Select Sites |

| General | 130 | 16 Sites, 10 Days |

These ticket options provide flexible choices for visitors to explore the cultural and historical highlights of the South Valley region.

Booking and Meeting Point

How does one book this excursion to the South Valley? Simply select the desired number of participants and the date on the booking platform.

Check availability, and then you’re ready to reserve your spot. No need to pay today – book now and pay later.

The meeting point is easily accessible, as it opens in Google Maps.

Here’s what to expect:

1. Select your preferred date and number of participants.

2. Check availability for the excursion.

3. Review the booking details and reserve your spot.

4. No payment required upfront – book now, pay later.

Things To Know

What Should I Bring on the Excursion?

Travelers should pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a light jacket, and water. Plus, bringing cash for any optional purchases or entrance fees is recommended. The excursion will provide a bilingual guide and transportation.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour seems suitable for children, as it includes a visit to a pre-Inca city and a famous church. However, parents should consider the 5.5-hour duration and ensure their kids can handle the activity level comfortably.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary to your preferences. You can discuss options with the tour operator, who’ll work to accommodate your requests within the overall tour structure.

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point if I’m Not Staying at a Hotel?

If you’re not staying at a hotel, you can get to the meeting point by arranging your own transportation. The tour operator provides clear instructions on how to reach the designated location, making it easy to join the excursion.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The excursion offers discounts for students and seniors, but specifics aren’t provided. Travelers should inquire about available discounts when booking the tour. The meeting point can be reached by various transportation options for those not staying at a hotel.

Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating history and stunning landscapes of Cusco’s South Valley. Explore the advanced water engineering of Tipon, marvel at the well-preserved Pikillacta, and be awestruck by the lavish Andahuaylillas Church. With convenient pickups, bilingual guides, and flexible booking, this enriching 5.5-hour excursion offers an unparalleled glimpse into Peru’s remarkable cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: