About this tour

Discover Cusco’s South Valley, a hidden gem blending rich history, vibrant traditions, and stunning landscapes. With INKANET ADVENTURE, explore Pikillacta, a pre-Inca Wari city, Tipón, an Inca site with intricate water channels still flowing, and Andahuaylillas, home to the “Sistine Chapel of America” with its exquisite colonial murals.

Journey through terraced fields, rolling hills, and breathtaking Andean scenery while learning about traditional Quechua farming practices. Visit quaint Quechua villages, connect with locals, and immerse in their crafts and daily life. This South Valley tour offers a perfect mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty, ideal for travelers seeking authentic Cusco experiences, historical insights, photography moments, and a deep connection to Peru’s timeless Andean traditions.

Price per person from

US$ 35 US$ 40

Highlights

Tipón Archaeological Site: Explore the Inca ruins of Tipón with agricultural terraces, irrigation channels, and ceremonial areas showcasing advanced Inca engineering techniques.

Andahuaylillas Church: Visit Andahuaylillas village and its famous church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes," with intricate frescoes and gold altars.

Pikillacta Archaeological Site: Discover pre-Inca Pikillacta ruins built by the Wari civilization, featuring ceremonial plazas, residential areas, and impressive defensive walls.

Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic South Valley landscapes, rolling hills, fertile farmland, and snow-capped mountains. Capture memorable photos along the tour route.

Cultural Immersion: Experience Andean communities, interact with locals, visit markets and workshops, and discover handmade crafts, textiles, and pottery by skilled artisans.

Itinerary

Set out from your hotel in Cusco at 7:00 AM for a full-day South Valley of Cusco tour (3,400 m / 11,155 ft). Explore terraces, irrigation channels, and ceremonial areas that highlight the Incas' sophisticated engineering at the breathtaking Tipón Archaeological Site (3,560 m / 11,680 ft). Proceed to Andahuaylillas Church (3,400 m / 11,155 ft), also referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes," and admire elaborate murals, gold leaf altars, and colonial artwork. Next, explore the vast Pikillacta ruins (3,500 m / 11,483 ft), built by the Wari civilization, featuring residential areas, ceremonial plazas, and defensive walls that demonstrate pre-Inca urban planning. In Saylla (3,350 m / 10,991 ft), take a leisurely lunch break to explore the town and try local fare (lunch not included). By 2:00 PM, conclude this Cusco day trip with a picturesque drive back to Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft), enjoying expansive Andean landscapes, snow-capped mountains, fertile farmland, and rolling hills, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Andes and its rich cultural legacy.

Durations

5 – 7 hours

Language

English

Espanol

Frequently asked questions

The South Valley of Cusco is a less-traveled route that offers a mix of archaeological sites, colonial architecture, and stunning landscapes. It includes attractions like Tipón, Andahuaylillas, and Pikillacta.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a camera. Depending on the weather, you might also need a rain jacket or extra layers.

The South Valley includes Tipón, known for its impressive Inca terraces and water channels; Andahuaylillas, home to the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas"; and Pikillacta, a pre-Inca Wari archaeological site.

The South Valley is approximately 23 to 30 kilometers (14 to 19 miles) southeast of Cusco, making it easily accessible for a day trip.