Tour Valle Sur Cusco Tipon, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas

The Tour Valle Sur Cusco explores some of the region’s most captivating archaeological sites and cultural landmarks. Visitors will uncover the ingenious Incan engineering at Tipon, discover the urban planning of the Wari civilization at Piquillacta, and marvel at the breathtaking Baroque artistry of Andahuaylillas Church. With knowledgeable guides, shared transportation, and inclusive pricing, this half-day excursion promises an enriching glimpse into Cusco’s remarkable history and heritage. What secrets might these ancient sites hold?

Key Points

• A half-day group excursion that explores unique archaeological sites and the Andahuaylillas church in the Valle Sur region near Cusco.
• Highlights include the Incan site of Tipon, the pre-Incan Wari site of Piquillacta, and the stunning 17th-century "Sistine Chapel of America" church.
• Priced from $30 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, shared transport, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees.
• The tour is suitable for moderate fitness levels and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 7 reviews.
• Cancellations are non-refundable, and the tour has a maximum capacity of 30 travelers with confirmation provided at booking.

Tour Overview

This Valle Sur Cusco tour is a half-day group excursion that takes visitors to explore a selection of unique archeological sites and a renowned church in the Cusco region.

Priced from $30 per person, the tour visits Tipon, an Incan archeological site, Piquillacta, a pre-Inca ruin, and the Andahuaylillas church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its stunning interior.

This half-day tour explores Incan and pre-Incan sites, including the renowned "Sistine Chapel of America" church, for $30 per person.

With hotel pickup, shared transport, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees included, the tour has a maximum capacity of 30 travelers.

Confirmation is provided at booking, though the tour is non-refundable upon cancellation.

Exploring Tipon

The tour begins with a visit to the Incan archaeological site of Tipon. This well-preserved site features impressive stone water channels, terraced gardens, and ceremonial plazas.

Visitors marvel at the innovative hydraulic engineering of the Incas, who channeled water from nearby springs to irrigate the terraced hillsides. Tipon’s stunning vistas offer a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the Inca Empire.

The guide shares insights into the site’s history and significance, allowing guests to imagine the bustling community that once thrived here. Exploring Tipon sets the stage for the journey through the Valle Sur region’s pre-Incan and colonial wonders.

Discovering Piquillacta

From Tipon, the tour continues to the pre-Incan archaeological site of Piquillacta.

This well-preserved city dates back to the Wari civilization, which pre-dated the Inca Empire. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, including plazas, aqueducts, and residential areas.

The site provides insights into the advanced urban planning and engineering of the Wari people. Piquillacta’s strategic location along trade routes made it an important regional center.

The guide shares stories about the site’s history and significance, allowing travelers to gain a deeper understanding of Peru’s rich pre-Columbian past.

Marveling at Andahuaylillas Church

After exploring the ancient ruins of Piquillacta, the tour moves on to the final stop of the day – the stunning Andahuaylillas Church.

Nicknamed the "Sistine Chapel of America," this 17th-century church boasts a breathtaking Baroque interior adorned with magnificent frescoes, ornate gilded altars, and intricately carved wooden ceilings.

Visitors marvel at the church’s exceptional state of preservation and the vibrant colors that still shine after centuries.

The tour provides the opportunity to wander through the church and its adjacent museum, gaining insight into the region’s rich religious heritage and artistic legacy.

Inclusions and Pricing

Along With the captivating historical sites, the Valle Sur Cusco tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the experience.

The tour price starts at $30 per person and covers hotel pickup, shared transportation, and a bilingual guide. Travelers will also receive the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which grants access to the Andahuaylillas church and museum.

The tour is a half-day group excursion, with a maximum capacity of 30 people. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level.

Cancellations are non-refundable, and the tour has an overall rating of 4.7 based on 7 reviews.

Pickup and Start Time

When does the Valle Sur Cusco tour start? The tour kicks off at 8:00 am with pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco.

The pickup time is arranged during booking, so you’ll know exactly when to be ready.

The tour includes:

Convenient hotel/Airbnb pickup, shared tourist transport, and drop-off in central Cusco at the end of the Valle Sur Cusco tour.

• Convenient hotel/Airbnb pickup

• Shared tourist transport throughout the day

• Pickup at an agreed upon time, typically around 8:00 am

• Drop-off in central Cusco at the end of the tour

The tour duration is around half a day, providing ample time to explore the unique archaeological sites and marvel at the stunning Andahuaylillas church without feeling rushed.

Additional Considerations

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation.

Travelers with back problems may find the moderate physical fitness level required challenging.

Confirmation is received at booking, and the tour is non-refundable upon cancellation.

With an average rating of 4.7 out of 7 reviews, the tour offers a unique experience, exploring archaeological sites and the stunning Andahuaylillas church, often missed by travelers.

Guests can expect a bilingual guide, shared transport, and the Cusco Tourist Ticket included in the price, which starts from $30 per person for the half-day group tour.

Review Highlights

The tour has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 7 reviews, with guests praising the unique experiences and knowledgeable guides.

Reviewers highlighted:

• Visiting lesser-known archaeological sites like Tipon and Piquillacta, which offer a glimpse into Peru’s pre-Inca and Incan history.

• The stunning, ornate interior of the Andahuaylillas church, often called the "Sistine Chapel of America."

• The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the small group size for a more personalized experience.

• The overall value, with the Cusco Tourist Ticket and entrance fees included in the reasonable tour price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Add Additional Stops or Customize the Tour?

The tour operator may allow customization or additional stops, but it depends on the specific package and availability. Travelers should inquire about the flexibility of the tour when booking to determine if modifications can be made.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Attraction?

The tour provides about 1-2 hours at each attraction, allowing visitors to explore the archeological sites of Tipon and Piquillacta, as well as the Andahuaylillas church. The schedule is designed to offer a rundown within the half-day tour duration.

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age or height restrictions for this tour. It is suitable for travelers of all ages and physical fitness levels, though a moderate level of fitness is recommended due to the nature of the activities.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

During the tour, travelers can purchase souvenirs at the sites visited, including the Andahuaylillas church and museum. However, the tour does not include dedicated souvenir shopping time, so purchases should be made during free time.

What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and water. It’s also recommended to bring cash for any optional purchases or tips. Depending on the weather, a light jacket or sweater may be useful.

The Sum Up

The Tour Valle Sur Cusco offers a comprehensive half-day excursion that showcases the rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders of the region. Visitors can marvel at the impressive Incan hydraulic engineering at Tipon, explore the advanced urban planning of the Wari civilization at Piquillacta, and admire the stunning Baroque artistry of the Andahuaylillas Church. With a convenient hotel pickup, shared transport, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide, this tour provides an informative and enriching experience at a reasonable price.