South Valley (Tipón, Pikillacta, Andahuaylillas)
Explore the hidden gems of the Cusco South Valley, an essential route that transports you from ingenious Inca hydraulic systems to the vestiges of a pre-Inca civilization and the splendor of colonial Baroque art. This tour is a deep and accessible immersion into the historical diversity of the Andes. You will visit the agricultural complex of Tipón, a masterpiece of water engineering. Then, you will discover Pikillacta, an enigmatic pre-Inca Wari citadel dating back over a thousand years. Finally, you will marvel at the “Sistine Chapel of America,” the church of Andahuaylillas, famous for its murals and Baroque ornamentation. The South Valley is the perfect route to complement your experience in Cusco, offering cultural richness without the large crowds.
Cusco, South Valley (Tipón, Pikillacta, Andahuaylillas)
Historical, Architectural, Sacred Art
Spanish and English
Group, Maximum 18 people
Itinerary
The tour begins with morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We start the journey toward the South Valley, where our first stop is the impressive Tipón archaeological complex. This often-overlooked site is a marvel of Inca hydraulic engineering, famous for its perfectly preserved agricultural terraces and water channels that flow impeccably through ceremonial fountains. Your guide explains the importance of water worship to the Incas as you explore the platforms and fountains. We continue our journey to the ancient pre-Inca city of Pikillacta (Quechua for “Flea City”). This is one of the few pre-Inca sites in the region and one of the largest and best-preserved Wari cities. You explore its vast adobe walls, straight streets, and square structures, learning about this mysterious civilization that flourished long before the Incas. Finally, the route takes us to the picturesque village of Andahuaylillas, home to the famous Church of San Pedro Apóstol, nicknamed the “Sistine Chapel of America.” You will be astonished by the interior, profusely decorated with murals, gold leaf, and rich Baroque iconography. After this cultural visit, we begin the return journey to Cusco, concluding the tour in the mid-afternoon. If the Full Day option is offered, lunch will be included at a local restaurant near Tipón or Saylla (famous for its chicharrones).
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and group tourist transportation (round trip).
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English) specializing in Andean history.
- Guided visit to the Tipón Archaeological Park (Inca).
- Guided visit to the Pikillacta Archaeological Park (Wari).
- Guided visit to the Sistine Chapel of America in Andahuaylillas.
- Permanent assistance throughout the tour.
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC): Mandatory for entry to Tipón and Pikillacta (the Partial BTC Circuit I or the Comprehensive BTC is recommended).
- Entrance Ticket to the Church of Andahuaylillas: Paid on site, in cash.
- Lunch (unless the Full Day option with lunch is contracted).
- Personal expenses, tips, or souvenirs.
- Travel insurance.
- Tourist Ticket: Purchase the BTC before the tour, as it is required for two of the three sites.
- Documentation: Bring your original passport or ID.
- Clothing: Comfortable clothing for walking and a light jacket. The weather in the valley is usually milder than in Cusco.
- Footwear: Comfortable shoes with good grip.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, a cap, and sunglasses.
- Camera: The interiors of the Andahuaylillas church generally prohibit photography. Ask before taking pictures.
- Acclimatization: This is an ideal tour for the second or third day, as the altitude is lower than in Cusco.