Cusco South Valley – Tipón, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas (Half Day)

The Cusco South Valley offers a captivating journey through Peru’s rich history and stunning landscapes. This half-day tour takes visitors to the remarkable sites of Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas, showcasing the engineering prowess of the Incas and the artistic brilliance of the colonial era. With convenient transportation, an expert guide, and a delightful lunch, this excursion promises to immerse you in the enchanting legacy of the region. What secrets await within these historic gems?

Key Points

• This half-day tour explores historic and archaeological sites in the Cusco South Valley: Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and entrance tickets to the Chapel of Andahuaylillas.
• The meeting point is Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, with optional pickup available from select locations.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but may accommodate travelers with mobility issues with advance notice.
• Highlights include the engineered water channels and terraced fields of Tipón, the pre-Inca walled city of Pikillacta, and the 17th-century "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" in Andahuaylillas.

Tour Overview

The Cusco South Valley Tour offers a half-day exploration of the region’s historic and archaeological sites, including Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas.

Priced from $22 per person, the tour accommodates up to 16 travelers and is likely to sell out. Inclusions cover transportation, a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and entrance tickets to the Chapel of Andahuaylillas.

The tour departs from Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, with optional pickup available. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly, and infants can join while seated on laps.

With a 5.0 rating, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.

Inclusions

The Cusco South Valley Tour includes several key components.

For starters, you’ll be provided with round-trip transportation, taking the hassle out of getting to and from the sites. A knowledgeable guide will accompany you, providing insights into the history and significance of the landmarks.

Lunch is also included, so you can refuel during the adventure. Entry tickets to the Chapel of Andahuaylillas are covered, ensuring you can fully explore this architectural gem.

Plus, the tour provides travel insurance, giving you peace of mind on your journey. With these inclusions, you’re set for an immersive South Valley experience.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the Cusco South Valley Tour is Plaza Regocijo, located in Cusco 08002, Peru. Pickup is available at select points, so guests have the option to meet the group at the central location or be transported from a nearby spot. The activity ends back at the original meeting point, making it convenient for participants.

Pickup Option	Location
Plaza Regocijo	Cusco, Peru
Hotel Pickup	Select Cusco Hotels
AirBnB Pickup	Registered AirBnB Addresses
Hostel Pickup	Approved Cusco Hostels
Rental Pickup	Cusco Car Rental Locations

Accessibility

Although the Cusco South Valley Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Most travelers can participate, though those with mobility issues may find the uneven terrain and walking challenging. The tour operator advises potential guests to assess their physical abilities before booking.

With advance notice, the guide can provide additional assistance where possible. The tour’s accessibility depends on each visitor’s needs and limitations.

Those with concerns are encouraged to discuss them with the operator prior to reserving their spot.

Reviews and Confirmation

According to reviews, the Cusco South Valley Tour receives a 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Customers appreciate the convenience of the tour, with confirmation received at the time of booking and the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour also offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, providing flexibility for travelers.

The Cusco South Valley Tour seems to be a highly rated and well-organized experience, making it a great choice for those looking to explore the region.

1. Confirmation received at time of booking
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before experience starts (local time)
3. Reserve now and pay later option available

Visiting Tipón

One of the highlights of the Cusco South Valley Tour is the visit to Tipón, an impressive Inca archaeological site renowned for its meticulously engineered water channels and terraced agricultural fields.

Visitors can explore the complex’s intricate irrigation system, which was cleverly designed to distribute water evenly across the terraced landscapes.

The site’s well-preserved architecture and stunning natural setting make it a must-see for those interested in Inca engineering and agricultural practices.

With its scenic beauty and historical significance, Tipón provides a unique glimpse into the advanced civilization of the Inca Empire.

Exploring Pikillacta

After exploring the intricate Inca engineering at Tipón, the Cusco South Valley Tour continues to the impressive archaeological site of Pikillacta.

This pre-Inca walled city, constructed by the Wari culture, covers an expansive 576 acres and showcases their advanced urban planning.

Visitors can:

1. Wander through the remains of the administrative, residential, and religious structures that once thrived here.
2. Marvel at the well-preserved stone masonry and the complex layout of the city.
3. Learn about the Wari civilization and their influence in the Andes before the rise of the Inca Empire.

Discovering Andahuaylillas

The tour then takes visitors to the charming village of Andahuaylillas, home to the stunning Chapel of Andahuaylillas.

This 17th-century church, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas," features remarkable frescoes and gilded altars.

Visitors can admire the intricate religious artwork and learn about the chapel’s fascinating history.

The guide provides insights into the architectural and cultural significance of this important landmark.

With its vibrant colors and ornate design, the Chapel of Andahuaylillas offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s colonial past and the enduring traditions of the Cusco region.

Sum Up

This half-day tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Cusco South Valley. Travelers can explore the remarkable Inca engineering at Tipón, the advanced urban planning of Pikillacta, and the exquisite art of the Chapel of Andahuaylillas, all while enjoying round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and convenient pickup options at an affordable price of just $22 per person.