Southern Valley Tour in Cusco
Location
Cusco, Peru
Trip Style
Cultural and Archaeological Tour
Daily Departure
Yes
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Southern Valley of Cusco, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes come together. This exclusive tour takes you to three remarkable sites: Andahuaylillas, home to the stunning “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” with its mesmerizing frescoes framed in gold; Tipón, a masterpiece of Inca hydraulic engineering featuring an intricate irrigation system still in use today; and Pikillaqta, a vast archaeological site built by the Wari civilization around 700 AD, with its impeccably preserved walls, chambers, and passageways.
Itinerary
Our daily departures allow you to explore at your preferred pace, whether on a private tour or as part of a small group. Just 30 km southeast of Cusco, this tour offers a deep dive into the region’s rich history and traditions:
- Tipón: Discover the ingenious Inca water channels, designed to provide a continuous water supply to local communities. These narrow and sophisticated fountains, still functioning today, showcase the advanced engineering skills of the Incas.
- Pikillaqta: Explore this impressive pre-Inca city of the Wari culture, with perfectly aligned walls and urban planning that influenced later civilizations.
- Andahuaylillas: Visit the 17th-century Andean Sistine Chapel, adorned with vivid murals, baroque altars covered in gold leaf, and a blend of Catholic and Quechua symbology.
- Additional highlights: Optional visits to a local museum showcasing Inca artifacts and a traditional handicraft market where you can interact with local artisans and purchase unique souvenirs.
After an enriching cultural experience, we will return to Cusco, where our services conclude.
Include
- Pick-up from your hotel
- Comfortable tourist transport
- Expert bilingual guide specialized in the region
- Entrance fees to all sites
Not Included
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Personal expenses or extra services
Suggestion
- To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend bringing:
- Sun hat & sunglasses
- Mosquito repellent
- Sunscreen
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Small cash denominations for souvenirs or personal expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour lasts approximately half a day (around 5–6 hours), starting in the morning and returning to Cusco in the early afternoon.
Yes, the tour is light and accessible, with minimal walking, making it perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
Yes, all entrance fees to Tipón, Pikillaqta, and the Andahuaylillas Chapel are included in the tour package.
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, and some cash for souvenirs or extra expenses.
Yes, the Southern Valley Tour departs daily, offering both private and small group options for flexibility.
