South Valley (Half Day)

Discover the captivating South Valley just outside Cusco. This half-day tour offers a chance to uncover ancient wonders and take in Peru’s rich cultural heritage. From the impressive Inca irrigation system of Tipon to the pre-Inca ruins of Pikillaqta, each site holds a unique story waiting to be explored. With private transportation, local meals, and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll embark on a personalized journey through this lesser-known region, leaving you intrigued to learn more.

About Your Stay

• The South Valley (Half Day) tour from central Cusco explores three historical sites: Tipon, Pikillaqta, and the Andahuaylillas church.
• The tour includes private transportation and a bilingual guide, with an additional cost for entrance fees ranging from $21 to $39 USD.
• The Andahuaylillas church has a separate entrance fee of 15 Soles, and the tour includes meals but not the entrance fees.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most visitors can participate, with a small group size capped at 15 travelers.
• The tour offers an authentic glimpse into the region’s history and culture, with a 5-star rating for the overall experience.

Tour Overview

This South Valley (Half Day) tour from central Cusco takes travelers to explore a trio of fascinating historical sites.

First, you’ll visit Tipon, where you’ll marvel at the Inca’s ingenious irrigation channels.

Next, it’s on to Pikillaqta, a pre-Inca archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

The final stop is the 16th-century church of San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas, which retains striking Inca remnants.

The 16th-century church of San Pedro Apostol de Andahuaylillas retains striking Inca remnants, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

This small-group tour includes private transportation and a knowledgeable bilingual guide to enhance your understanding of these unique cultural wonders.

Pricing and Fees

The South Valley (Half Day) tour from central Cusco costs from $65.00 per person.

Entrance fees are additional, running $21 USD for 2-day access or $39 USD for 10-day access to all sites.

Andahuaylillas church has a separate 15 Soles entry fee.

There’s a non-refundable policy – no refunds for cancellations.

The tour includes a bilingual guide, transportation, and meals, but entrance fees aren’t covered in the tour price.

Pickup is from hotels within Cusco’s historic center, not private residences or hotels outside the city center.

This small group tour has a maximum of 15 travelers.

Inclusions

The South Valley (Half Day) tour from central Cusco includes a bilingual tour guide to accompany travelers.

Private transportation with hotel pickup from the historic center is provided. Entry fees to the sites aren’t included in the tour price, so travelers will need to pay an additional $21 USD for 2-day access or $39 USD for 10-day access.

Entrance to the Andahuaylillas church costs 15 Soles. Meals are also included as part of the tour experience.

Pickup Information

Where does the tour pickup from? The South Valley tour picks up from hotels within the historic center of Cusco.

Here’s what you need to know about the pickup:

1. No pickup from private residences (e.g., Airbnb) or hotels outside the historic center.

2. Pickup is from your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about getting to a central meeting point.

3. The tour provides private transportation, so you’ll be taken directly to the first site.

4. Make sure to provide your hotel information when booking, so the tour can arrange the pickup.

Tour Experience and Accessibility

Although the South Valley tour takes visitors to less busy tourist areas, the experience is anything but dull.

Travelers will confirm their booking upon pickup from their central Cusco hotel. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most visitors can easily participate.

Guides ensure a small group experience, capping the tour at 15 travelers max. This intimate setting allows for a more personalized, immersive exploration of Tipon’s Incan irrigation channels, Pikillaqta’s pre-Inca ruins, and the 16th-century Andahuaylillas church.

With a perfect 5-star rating, this half-day adventure offers travelers an authentic glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.

Reviews

How do the reviews for this South Valley tour paint the overall experience? Overwhelmingly positive, the 5-star ratings from both Viator and Tripadvisor suggest an exceptional outing.

Travelers highlight several key aspects:

Knowledgeable and engaging guide, seamless transportation, fascinating historical and cultural insights, uncrowded off-the-beaten-path destinations.

1. Knowledgeable and engaging guide

2. Seamless transportation and coordination

3. Fascinating historical and cultural insights

4. Uncrowded, off-the-beaten-path destinations

With no lower ratings, this tour seems to consistently deliver on its promises, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore Cusco’s lesser-known but equally captivating sights.

The reviews indicate a high-quality, well-organized experience that immerses guests in the region’s rich heritage.

Tipon (Incan Irrigation Channels)

The South Valley tour begins with a visit to the remarkable Tipon, an Incan site known for its intricate irrigation channels.

Carved into the hillside, these channels showcase the engineering prowess of the Incas. Visitors can marvel at the precise craftsmanship and the ingenious way the system harnessed water from nearby springs. The channels still function today, demonstrating the durability of Incan construction.

Strolling along the terraced gardens, travelers can imagine the bustling agricultural activities that once took place here. Tipon offers a glimpse into the Incas’ advanced understanding of hydrology and their ability to harness the natural environment.

Pikillaqta (Pre-Inca Archaeological Site)

After marveling at the engineering feats of the Incas at Tipon, the South Valley tour moves on to the pre-Inca archaeological site of Pikillaqta.

This expansive site offers a glimpse into the Wari civilization, which flourished centuries before the rise of the Inca Empire.

Visitors can expect to:

1. Explore the well-preserved structures, including administrative buildings, plazas, and residential areas.

2. Admire the intricate stone masonry and the site’s strategic layout, showcasing the Wari’s advanced architectural and urban planning skills.

3. Learn about the site’s suspected role as a major administrative and religious center.

4. Appreciate the natural setting, with the site nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant landscapes.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Wear closed-toe shoes, and bring layers as the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. The focus is on exploring the sites, not formal attire.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include a lunch stop, but you can ask the guide about options to grab a quick bite during the tour. Many travelers bring snacks to enjoy between the sites.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour includes stops at several historical sites, and there should be restroom facilities available for guests to use during the tour. However, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and use the restroom before the tour departs.

Can We Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour. The guide will provide guidance on any restrictions or areas where photography may not be permitted for preservation purposes. Feel free to capture the highlights of your experience.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking. Visitors can expect to walk for around 2-3 hours throughout the day, with breaks in between visits. The terrain is mostly flat, but some uneven surfaces may be encountered at the archaeological sites.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The South Valley (Half Day) tour offers a captivating exploration of Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the Incan engineering marvel of Tipon, the pre-Inca wonders of Pikillaqta, and the charming Andahuaylillas church. With private transportation, meals, and a bilingual guide, this tour provides a personalized and insightful experience for small groups, showcasing the less crowded yet equally remarkable attractions around Cusco.