Setting out on a captivating 5-hour excursion from Cusco, travelers can explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas. This insightful tour, priced at just $20 per person, delves into the ingenious water management system of Tipon, the sophisticated Wari culture at Pikillacta, and the breathtaking "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" in Andahuaylillas. With a knowledgeable bilingual guide providing expert commentary, the journey promises to unveil the rich history and impressive engineering feats of these captivating destinations. The question is, what secrets will these ancient sites reveal?

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Key Points

This excursion from Cusco explores the archaeological sites of Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas, showcasing Inca and pre-Inca civilizations.
The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide, lasting approximately 5 hours with a cost of $20 per person.
Tipon is renowned for its impressive Inca water management system, featuring tiered agricultural terraces, canals, aqueducts, and fountains.
Pikillacta dates back to the 15th and 18th centuries, offering insights into the sophisticated urban planning of the Wari culture.
Andahuaylillas is home to the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas," a 17th-century church with stunning frescoes, gilded altars, and impressive acoustics.

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Excursion Overview

This excursion from Cusco takes visitors to three fascinating archaeological sites – Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas.

The tour lasts around 5 hours and costs $20 per person. Participants can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

This excursion from Cusco lasts around 5 hours and costs $20 per person with free cancellation and a reserve now & pay later option.

Pickup is at 8:30 a.m. from central Cusco hotels. The itinerary includes exploring Inca water worship at Tipon, the pre-Inca ruins of Pikillacta, and the renowned "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" in Andahuaylillas.

Entrance fees, transportation, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide are included.

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

Itinerary Highlights

The excursion begins with a pickup from central Cusco hotels at 8:30 a.m.

First, visitors explore the archaeological site of Tipon, renowned for its Inca worship of water. Guests marvel at the intricate stone-carved terraces and hydraulic engineering.

Next, they discover Pikillacta, a pre-Inca site dating back to the 15th and 18th centuries. Visitors wander among the stucco walls and learn about this ancient civilization.

The final stop is Andahuaylillas, a traditional village home to the chapel known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" for its ornate frescoes and gilded altarpiece.

Exploring Tipon

Visitors start their exploration at Tipon, an impressive Inca archaeological site renowned for its ingenious water management system.

The site features:

Tiered agricultural terraces, a complex network of canals, aqueducts, and fountains efficiently irrigating the land.

Tiered agricultural terraces that utilize a complex network of canals, aqueducts, and fountains to irrigate the land efficiently.
Impressive stone masonry, including intricately carved fountains and canals that were designed to control the flow of water.
The remains of Inca buildings and plazas, providing insight into the site’s religious and administrative functions.
Panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountains, adding to the site’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

Discovering Pikillacta

After exploring the intricate water systems at Tipon, the tour continues on to the pre-Inca site of Pikillacta.

This expansive complex dates back to the 15th and 18th centuries, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Wari culture. Visitors can marvel at the impressive stucco walls, which were a hallmark of Wari construction.

The guide provides insightful commentary on the site’s history and significance, shedding light on the sophisticated urban planning of this ancient civilization.

Exploring Pikillacta offers a glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of Peru’s rich archaeological heritage.

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Visiting Andahuaylillas

Finally, the tour arrives at the traditional village of Andahuaylillas, home to the renowned "Sistine Chapel of the Americas."

Visitors are immediately captivated by the ornate 17th-century church, its interiors adorned with stunning frescoes, gilded altars, and intricate paintings that rival the works found in the Vatican.

Visitors are immediately captivated by the ornate 17th-century church, its interiors adorned with stunning frescoes, gilded altars, and intricate paintings rivaling the Vatican.

The highlights of the chapel include:

Impressive murals covering the walls and ceilings
Ornate high altar decorated with intricate wood carvings
Beautifully preserved colonial-era artworks and artifacts
Stunning acoustics that enhance the church’s spiritual ambiance

The visit to Andahuaylillas provides a fitting conclusion to the day’s excursion, offering a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Inclusions and Exclusions

The excursion from Cusco to Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas includes several key amenities for participants.

Hotel pickup and return to central Cusco, as well as transportation by bus, are provided. An English and Spanish-speaking guide accompanies the group. Entrance fees to Andahuaylillas, Tipon, and Pikillacta are covered.

Hikers should bring their passport or ID card, personal medication, and a pen. Availability for start times should be checked.

The excursion doesn’t include any meals or personal expenses. The inclusions make for a well-rounded and hassle-free day trip from Cusco.

Important Considerations

Although the excursion includes hotel pickup and return, travelers should be ready at their hotel by the specified departure time of 8:30 a.m.

It’s recommended to bring:

Passport or ID card for entrance fees.
Personal medication.
A pen for any necessary documentation.
Comfortable walking shoes, as the sites involve some uneven terrain.

Plus, visitors should check availability for start times, as this excursion may be subject to schedule changes.

Following these simple considerations will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience during the Cusco excursion to Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas.

Customer Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced the Cusco excursion to Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas have consistently praised the quality of the guided tour.

With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 3 reviews, the tour has received positive comments on the knowledgeable and engaging guides.

The tour has received an impressive 4.7/5 rating, with praise for its knowledgeable and engaging guides.

Customers have appreciated the small group size, which allows for a more personalized experience.

The itinerary, covering a range of archaeological sites and a traditional village, has been well-received, providing a comprehensive look at the region’s history and culture.

Things To Know

Is There a Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size. Travelers can book the excursion individually or as part of a small group. The tour operates with a maximum of 12 participants to provide a personalized experience.

Can I Book the Tour in Other Languages Besides English and Spanish?

The tour is available in English and Spanish, but other language options may be possible upon request. Travelers should check with the tour provider to inquire about accommodations for additional language needs.

Are There Any Walking/Hiking Requirements During the Tour?

The tour involves some walking at the archaeological sites, but there are no strenuous hiking requirements. Visitors can explore the sites at their own pace and comfort level, with the guide providing information along the way.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Sites or in Cusco?

You can purchase souvenirs at the tour sites and in Cusco. The sites often have local artisans selling handicrafts, while Cusco’s markets and shops offer a wide variety of Peruvian souvenirs like textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Accommodations Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions or special accommodations. However, travelers should notify the tour operator of any dietary needs or accessibility requirements when booking to ensure they can be accommodated.

Sum Up

This enriching excursion from Cusco provides an immersive dive into the remarkable archaeological wonders of the region. Visitors will marvel at Tipon’s ingenious Inca water management system, uncover the sophisticated Wari culture at Pikillacta, and be captivated by the stunning frescoes of Andahuaylillas’ "Sistine Chapel of the Americas." With insightful commentary from a bilingual guide, this 5-hour tour offers a captivating exploration of Cusco’s remarkable ancient heritage at the affordable price of $20 per person.