Explore the captivating legacy of the Incas on this immersive day tour through the South Valley of Cusco. Explore the rich history etched in ancient sites like Tipón and Pikillacta, marveling at the architectural marvels that have stood the test of time. But the experience doesn’t end there – savor the flavors of local pork chicharrones and uncover the stunning Andahuaylillas church, a hidden gem that’s sure to leave you in awe. With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and incredible value, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into Peru’s cultural heritage.
Key Points
- A day-long guided tour of the South Valley of the Incas around Cusco, including visits to the ancient Incan and pre-Incan sites of Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas.
- The tour is priced at $16 per person, includes hotel pickup, transportation by minivan, and an expert bilingual guide.
- Tour duration is 6 hours, with opportunities to explore agricultural terraces, witness the "Sistine Chapel of Peru," and savor local pork chicharrones.
- Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a water bottle are recommended, and drones are prohibited during the tour.
- Customer reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, good value, and suggestions for improved meal options and extended time at archaeological sites.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The "Cusco: South Valley of the Incas Day-Tour" offers travellers a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region at an unbeatable price.
Priced at just $16 per person, it’s a steal considering the incredible sights you’ll witness. The 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a comfortable minivan, and an expert bilingual guide to bring the ancient Incan sites to life.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s easy to lock in your spot without risk. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about Peru’s stunning South Valley – book now and pay later!
Itinerary Highlights
Dive into the captivating Itinerary Highlights of the Cusco: South Valley of the Incas Day-Tour.
Explore the ancient Incan site of Tipón, marveling at its elaborate agricultural terracing, baths, and aqueducts.
Uncover the pre-Inca mysteries of Pikillacta, built by the Huari people.
Then, behold the "Sistine Chapel of Peru" in Andahuaylillas, with its golden altars and intricate paintings.
The tour culminates with a visit to Saylla, where you’ll savor the famous pork chicharrones.
Throughout the journey, you’ll be accompanied by a bilingual guide, ensuring an immersive and enriching experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes pickup from your hotel in the historical center of Cusco, if selected, as well as transportation by minivan throughout the day.
You’ll have a bilingual guide to provide insights in both English and Spanish. The entrance fee to the Temple of Andahuaylillas is covered.
However, meals and drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for those. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and rain gear. Drones aren’t allowed on the tour.
No pickups are offered from hotels outside the city center.
Preparation and Restrictions
To get the most out of this tour, visitors should wear comfortable shoes and pack sun protection like a hat or sunscreen.
Bringing a water bottle is also a good idea to stay hydrated.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility issues should consider other options.
Drones aren’t permitted, so leave those at home.
Finally, those staying outside the city center won’t be able to take advantage of the included hotel pickup – you’ll need to meet the group at the starting point in Cusco’s historical center.
Following these simple preparations ensures a seamless, enjoyable experience.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
According to the 37 customer reviews, the Cusco: South Valley of the Incas Day-Tour has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and informative guides, who earn a 4.4/5 rating. The transportation gets a 4.2/5, with some suggestions for improved organization and communication.
Customers deem the tour a good value at 4.2/5. While most are satisfied, some recommend better meal options and more time at the archaeological sites.
Exploring Tipón Archaeological Complex
The Tipón Archaeological Complex beckons visitors with its awe-inspiring agricultural terraces and intricate Incan engineering.
Wandering through this ancient site, you’ll marvel at the scale and precision of the stone structures, including baths and aqueducts.
Imagine the bustling royal gardens that once flourished here, fed by the ingenious irrigation system.
Climb the stepped terraces and soak in the serene atmosphere, transporting you back to the height of the Inca Empire.
With knowledgeable guides to share the site’s fascinating history, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the Incas’ advanced agricultural and hydraulic technologies.
Discovering Pikillacta and Rumicolca
From Tipón, the tour continues on to explore the pre-Inca site of Pikillacta, an impressive archaeological complex built by the Huari people between 700-900 A.D.
Sprawling across a vast area, the site’s massive stone structures and plazas offer a glimpse into the powerful Huari civilization that predated the Incas.
Sprawling across a vast expanse, the site’s colossal stone structures and plazas offer a glimpse into the mighty Huari civilization before the Incas.
Nearby, the Inca site of Rumicolca, with its distinctive stone gateway, provides further insights into the region’s rich history.
Wandering through these evocative ruins, visitors can almost feel the ghosts of the past, imagining the bustling activity that once filled these ancient spaces.
Visiting Andahuaylillas and Saylla
After exploring the impressive ruins of Pikillacta and Rumicolca, the tour takes visitors to the charming town of Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of Peru."
Stepping inside the quaint church, one is immediately struck by the stunning golden altars and intricate, vibrant paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings, creating an atmosphere of awe and reverence.
The final stop is the nearby town of Saylla, famous for its delectable pork chicharrones.
Visitors can savor these crispy, mouthwatering pork cracklins, a delightful culinary highlight capping off the immersive South Valley tour.
Things To Know
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policies prohibit bringing animals for safety and comfort reasons. Guests should leave their furry friends at home and enjoy the beautiful Inca sites with just themselves.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
No, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. The itinerary includes visits to archaeological sites with uneven terrain and stairs, which wouldn’t be suitable for wheelchair users. The tour description clearly states it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour has a max group size of 18 people, so you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience exploring the ancient Inca sites. You’ll travel comfortably in a minivan with a knowledgeable bilingual guide to bring the history to life.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead?
Yes, you can request a private tour instead. That way, you’ll have the guide all to yourself and can customize the itinerary to your preferences. A private tour offers a more personalized and flexible experience than the regular group tour.
Are There Any Covid-19 Safety Protocols in Place?
The tour operator follows strict COVID-19 safety protocols, including mandatory mask-wearing, temperature checks, and sanitization of all vehicles and surfaces. They prioritize guest safety while ensuring an enjoyable and informative experience.
Sum Up
This immersive day-tour through the South Valley of the Incas offers an unbeatable value for discovering Peru’s rich cultural heritage. From the impressive Incan ruins of Tipón and Pikillacta to the stunning Andahuaylillas church, you’ll be captivated by the region’s fascinating history. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and delicious local cuisine, it’s the perfect way to experience the wonders of the Inca civilization.
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