Half-Day Tour Tipón, Pikillaqta & Andahuaylillas Shared Tour

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Peru has never been more accessible. The Half-Day Tour of Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through Inca engineering marvels and a breathtaking 17th-century church. At just $39 per person, this 4-hour shared tour provides a convenient and budget-friendly way to uncover the fascinating history that lies beyond Cusco’s historic center. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural adventure, this tour promises to leave you captivated and eager to dive deeper into Peru’s remarkable past.

Key Points

• This half-day tour includes guided visits to the pre-Inca site of Pikillaqta, the Inca-era hydraulic engineering site of Tipón, and the historic Andahuaylillas Church.
• The tour duration is 4 hours and is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, with hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center.
• Visitors can explore the advanced irrigation system and agricultural techniques at Tipón, the ancient Wari settlement at Pikillaqta, and the ornate Andahuaylillas Church.
• Admission to Andahuaylillas Church is included, while the Cusco Tourist Ticket is required for the other sites.
• The tour is priced from $39 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The half-day tour takes visitors to explore three renowned sites near Cusco – Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas.

Priced from $39 per person, the 4-hour tour is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center is included, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include guided tours of Inca irrigation terraces, the Wari archaeological site, and the Sistine Chapel of America. Admission to Andahuaylillas church is covered, but the Cusco Tourist Ticket for Tipón and Pikillaqta is extra.

Comfortable attire and sun protection are recommended.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a 30-minute guided visit to Tipón, located 27 kilometers from Cusco.

Guests will explore the Inca-era irrigation terraces and aqueducts, a hydraulic engineering masterpiece featuring 12 cultivated terraces.

Next, the group will spend 50 minutes exploring the Wari archaeological site of Pikillaqta, which predates the Incas.

The site covers 3,000 hectares and includes 700 stone and mud structures, as well as a carving of a condor.

The final stop is a 45-minute visit to the Church of Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its high-quality art and restored pipe organ.

Tipón

As the first stop on the tour, Tipón lies 27 kilometers from Cusco and features a remarkable Inca-era irrigation system.

The site boasts:

1. 12 cultivated terraces that were expertly engineered to maximize water flow and distribution.

2. Aqueducts and canals that demonstrate the Incas’ advanced hydraulic engineering.

3. A meticulously designed layout that showcases the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of land management and agricultural techniques.

Visitors can explore this well-preserved archaeological gem and marvel at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

Pikillaqta

After exploring the impressive Inca-era irrigation systems of Tipón, the tour then moves on to the archaeological site of Pikillaqta.

Visitors will have about 50 minutes to explore this pre-Inca Wari civilization settlement, which dates back to the 6th century AD.

The site covers an impressive 3,000 hectares and features over 700 stone and mud structures.

One notable highlight is the carving of a condor, a sacred Andean animal.

Guests will have the opportunity to wander through the ancient ruins and learn about the history and significance of this important archaeological site.

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Andahuaylillas

Following the tour of the Wari archaeological site of Pikillaqta, the half-day excursion concludes with a visit to the Church of Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America."

Guests will spend approximately 45 minutes exploring this magnificent 17th-century church, which is renowned for:

1. Its high-quality art pieces, including intricate frescoes, sculptures, and gilded altarpieces.

2. The restoration of its original pipe organ, which is considered one of the finest in South America.

3. The unique architectural blend of Andean and European influences.

Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a professional tour guide, and admission to the Church of Andahuaylillas. Snacks and beverages are also provided.

However, the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) required for the Tipón and Pikillaqta sites isn’t included. Participants are responsible for their personal expenses and gratuities.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pets, or unaccompanied minors, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Additional sales taxes may apply for participants from Peru or those staying over 60 days.

Important Information

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen, and dress in comfortable clothing.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pets, or unaccompanied minors. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Plus, participants from Peru or those staying over 60 days may incur additional sales taxes.

The key considerations for this tour are:

1. Appropriate attire and sun protection are essential for the outdoor activities.

2. Mobility restrictions may limit participation for some individuals.

3. Additional taxes may apply for certain participants.

Booking Instructions

To book this tour, customers can check availability for their selected date and number of participants.

Once they’ve confirmed the tour is open, they’ll arrive at their hotel lobby 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The itinerary is subject to change, so customers should reference it only as a guide.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pets, or unaccompanied minors.

Participants from Peru or staying over 60 days may incur additional sales taxes.

Customers can also take advantage of the reserve now, pay later option.

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour itinerary doesn’t specifically mention accommodating dietary restrictions. However, it includes snacks and beverages, so participants with dietary needs should contact the tour operator to inquire about available options or arrangements.

Can We Make Changes to the Itinerary Based on Our Preferences?

Yes, participants can request minor changes to the itinerary, though major changes may not be accommodated. The tour operator is flexible within reason to ensure a personalized experience for guests.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Senior Citizens?

There are no specific student or senior citizen discounts mentioned for this tour. However, participants from Peru or those staying over 60 days may incur additional sales taxes, which could potentially offset some of the costs.

Can We Book Private Tours Instead of Shared Tours?

Yes, private tours are available for this trip. Customers can choose to book a private tour instead of a shared tour, which offers more flexibility and personalized attention. Prices may vary for private tours.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is during the dry season, typically from May to September. The weather is pleasant, and the sites are less crowded, making for a more enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Peru’s rich heritage. Visitors will experience the advanced Inca irrigation systems at Tipón, the pre-Inca settlement of Pikillaqta, and the stunning 17th-century Church of Andahuaylillas. With hotel pickup, a knowledgeable guide, and the flexibility of free cancellation, this tour provides a stress-free and immersive journey into Peru’s captivating past, all for the affordable price of $39 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here: