The South Valley of Cusco in Peru offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage. From the intricate stone irrigation system of Tipón to the expansive ruins of the Wari urban center at Pikillaqta, this tour promises a captivating journey through the area’s remarkable sites. And in Andahuaylillas, the 17th-century church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America," awaits those seeking to marvel at its artistic splendor. Discover the treasures that lie within the South Valley, where history and stunning landscapes converge.

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Key Points

The South Valley Tour offers a 7-hour exploration of three major archaeological sites: Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas, with transportation and entrance fees included.
Tipón features an intricate stone irrigation system and well-preserved terraced agricultural platforms, showcasing the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices.
Pikillacta is a significant pre-Inca urban center built by the Wari civilization, featuring over 1,000 structures and advanced engineering.
Andahuaylillas is home to a 17th-century church known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its stunning frescoes and gilded altars.
The tour is facilitated by experienced local drivers and bilingual guides, providing personalized attention and knowledgeable explanations of the historic sites.

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Overview of the South Valley Tour

The South Valley of Cusco offers a day tour that allows visitors to explore a rich tapestry of Andean history and culture. For $30 per person, the 7-hour tour departs around 8:30 am with pickup from central Cusco hotels.

Highlights include the ancient irrigation system at Tipón, the pre-Inca Wari site of Pikillacta, and the ornate "Sistine Chapel of America" in Andahuaylillas. An optional pork crackling lunch stop is available.

The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customer reviews praise the sites visited, though note larger groups and average lunch quality.

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

Exploring the Tipón Archaeological Complex

One of the first stops on the South Valley tour is the Tipón Archaeological Complex, located 24 km southeast of Cusco.

This Inca site is known for its intricate stone irrigation system that’s still functional today.

Visitors can explore:

Visitors can explore the terraced agricultural platforms, canals, aqueducts, impressive stone masonry, and stunning mountain vistas of the Tipón Archaeological Complex.

Terraced agricultural platforms carved into the hillside.
Canals and aqueducts that skillfully distribute water.
Impressive stone masonry and architectural features.
Stunning mountain vistas overlooking the valley.

The Tipón site provides a glimpse into the advanced agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.

Exploring this well-preserved complex is a highlight of the South Valley tour.

Discovering the Wari Urban Center of Pikillacta

After exploring the impressive Inca site of Tipón, the tour continues southeast to the Wari urban center of Pikillacta.

Dating back to the 6th century AD, Pikillacta was a major pre-Inca city built by the Wari civilization. Visitors can wander through the extensive ruins, discovering over 1,000 structures, including temples, plazas, and residential areas.

The site showcases the Wari’s advanced urban planning and engineering skills. Highlights include the well-preserved walls, foundations, and irrigation systems.

Exploring Pikillacta provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich pre-Columbian history before continuing on to the final stop, the "Sistine Chapel of America" in Andahuaylillas.

Visiting the "Sistine Chapel of America" in Andahuaylillas

Visitors conclude the South Valley tour with a stop at Andahuaylillas, a charming town known as the "Sistine Chapel of America."

Here, they marvel at the ornate 17th-century church, its walls and ceilings adorned with mesmerizing frescoes and gilded altars. The church’s unique blend of indigenous and European artistic influences represents the cultural fusion of the Andes.

Notable features include:

Elaborate entrance portal with intricate stone carvings.
Baroque-style altars and pulpits adorned with gold leaf.
Stunning ceiling frescoes depicting biblical scenes and local imagery.
Well-preserved architectural elements showcasing Andean craftsmanship.

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Optional Lunch Stop in Saylla

On the return to Cusco, the tour makes an optional stop in the charming town of Saylla, renowned for its famous pork cracklings.

Visitors can savor these delectable crispy morsels at one of the local eateries. The pork cracklings, known as chicharrón, are a beloved regional delicacy.

Diners can enjoy them on their own or as part of a traditional Andean meal. The stop in Saylla provides a chance to experience the local cuisine and culture before heading back to Cusco.

It’s a tasty way to round out the South Valley tour experience.

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Transportation and Guides

The tour includes minivan transportation with a maximum capacity of 18 people, which ensures a comfortable and intimate group experience.

The vehicles are well-maintained and driven by experienced local drivers. The tour also features a bilingual guide who provides informative commentary in both English and Spanish.

The guide’s expertise offers insights that enhance the overall experience.

Some key benefits of the transportation and guides include:

Personalized attention from the guide.
Comfortable and efficient transportation.
Seamless coordination of the itinerary.
Knowledgeable explanations of the historic sites.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes several key inclusions that ensure a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.

Pickup from central Cusco hotels and minivan transportation with a maximum capacity of 18 people are provided. A bilingual guide fluent in English and Spanish accompanies the group throughout the day.

Partial tourist tickets for Pikillaqta and Tipón, as well as the entrance fee for Andahuaylillas, are covered. Permanent assistance is available during the tour.

However, lunch, drinks, and snacks aren’t included. The tour also excludes individuals over 70 years old or pregnant women, and the use of drones is prohibited.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

How do customers rate this South Valley of Cusco tour? Based on 16 reviews, the overall rating is 4.2 out of 5.

Customers praise the knowledgeable bilingual guide, awarding a 5/5 rating. However, the transportation scores a 3.8/5, with some mentioning larger groups than expected.

Regarding value for money, the tour earns a 4/5 rating. Some reviews note average lunch quality, but highlight the fascinating visited sites, including the "Sistine Chapel of America" in Andahuaylillas.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

While the tour doesn’t include meals, the overview doesn’t explicitly prohibit bringing your own food and drinks. As long as they don’t disrupt the group, you’re likely able to enjoy your own snacks during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but you can arrange a private or customized tour for a longer experience. Additional fees may apply for extending the tour.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour operator offers private options for those who prefer a more personalized experience, but at an additional cost compared to the standard group tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not specifically mention discounts for students or seniors. However, you can inquire with the tour operator about any available discounted rates for these groups when making your booking.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific language for the tour guide. The tour offers a bilingual guide in both English and Spanish, so you can request your preferred language when booking the tour.

Sum Up

The South Valley of Cusco offers a captivating journey through rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stone irrigation system and terraced platforms of Tipón, explore the expansive ruins of the Wari urban center at Pikillacta, and admire the artistic splendor of the 17th-century church in Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America." This tour provides a unique insight into the cultural heritage of the region.