South Valley of Cusco
Cusco, Peru
Half day
Beyond the familiar streets of Cusco, a different story unfolds across the South Valley. Here, Inca engineering meets colonial architecture, traditional villages preserve their character, and ancient agricultural landscapes surround some of the region’s most fascinating historical sites.
This journey follows a route where every stop reveals a different side of Andean heritage. At Tipón, water flows through stone channels designed centuries ago. At Pikillacta, the remains of a pre-Inca city reveal the planning and ambition of the Wari civilization. In Andahuaylillas, an unassuming church holds an extraordinary collection of religious art that has earned it the nickname “the Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”
The South Valley is also a journey through local flavors and everyday life, offering a closer look at the cultural richness that extends beyond Cusco’s most visited landmarks.
Itinerary
Ancient roads, living traditions and flavors of the Andes
- Tipón – Water Engineering in Stone: We begin the tour with a drive from Cusco toward Tipón, an impressive archaeological complex associated with Inca hydraulic engineering.
- The site features agricultural terraces, stone channels and fountains designed to guide water through the landscape with remarkable precision. As we walk through the complex, our guide will explain how water management supported agriculture and reflected the Incas' close relationship with their environment.
- The flowing water and green terraces create a striking contrast with the surrounding hills, making Tipón one of the most distinctive stops on the route.
- Pikillacta – A City From Before the Incas: We continue toward Pikillacta, an extensive archaeological settlement built by the Wari civilization before the rise of the Inca Empire.
- Unlike many Inca sites characterized by carefully fitted stone walls, Pikillacta is known for its large-scale urban layout, long streets and organized sectors. Walking among the remains reveals the planning of a civilization that helped shape the cultural history of the Andes.
- Our guide will explain the importance of the Wari and how their presence contributed to the region's development long before the Incas established their capital in Cusco.
- Andahuaylillas – The Sister Church of the Andes: The journey continues to the traditional town of Andahuaylillas, home to one of the most remarkable colonial churches in Peru.
- From the outside, the Church of Saint Peter the Apostle appears modest. Inside, however, its painted ceilings, elaborate decorations, murals and religious artwork create an extraordinary visual experience. The combination of European artistic traditions and Andean influences reflects the cultural transformations that followed the Spanish conquest.
- During the visit, we learn about the church's history and the artistic details that make it such an important part of the region's heritage.
- Church entrance is subject to opening hours and the applicable admission fee.
- The South Valley – Landscapes and Local Life: Between the main stops, the road passes through agricultural fields, small settlements and open Andean landscapes.
- These stretches of the journey offer a glimpse of the countryside surrounding Cusco, where farming traditions and community life remain closely connected to the seasons and the land.
- Depending on the schedule, there may be time to stop for photographs or enjoy a short break before returning to the city.
- Return to Cusco: After visiting the scheduled attractions, we begin the return journey to Cusco.
- The tour concludes in the city, leaving you with a broader understanding of the civilizations, architecture and traditions that shaped the region beyond the Inca capital.
Includes
- Tourist transportation throughout the tour
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Hotel pick-up within the designated area of Cusco
- Guided visits to the scheduled attractions
- Assistance throughout the excursion
Does not include
- Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico), if required
- Entrance fees to Tipón and Pikillacta, where applicable
- Entrance fee to Andahuaylillas Church
- Food and beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Services not mentioned in the itinerary
Recommendations
- Tourist transportation throughout the tour
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Hotel pick-up within the designated area of Cusco
- Guided visits to the scheduled attractions
- Assistance throughout the excursion
Book now
Price
$ 350.00
Per Person