South Valley Cusco Tour: Tipon & Pikillac…

Sobre el tour

Explore colonial temples, pre-Inca cities, and historical landscapes in the fascinating South Valley of Cusco.

Cusco, Tipon, Pikillacta, Andahuaylillas, Huaro

The South Valley of Cusco is a fascinating cultural journey that allows you to discover important archaeological sites, colonial temples, and traditional villages located south of the city. During this half-day tour, you will visit the impressive archaeological complex of Tipon, renowned for its sophisticated Inca hydraulic systems and beautiful agricultural terraces that are still functional today. You will also explore Pikillacta, an ancient city of the Wari culture, considered one of the best-preserved pre-Inca complexes in the region.

The tour continues to the charming town of Andahuaylillas, home to the famous Church of San Pedro Apóstol, known worldwide as the «Sistine Chapel of America» for its stunning frescoes and baroque art. In addition, you will visit the traditional town of Huaro, famous for its 17th-century colonial murals. This tour is ideal for those who want to see a different side of Cusco, combining history, culture, and Andean landscapes into an authentic experience.

Cusco Tour

Step by step

Itinerary – South Valley of Cusco

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08:30 a.m.

Hotel Pick-up in Cusco

We begin the adventure with a pick-up from your hotel in the historic center of Cusco. Our tourist transport will be ready for the entire journey.

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09:30 a.m.

Arrival at Tipon

We will visit the Tipon archaeological complex, an agricultural laboratory famous for its Inca terraces and advanced spring-water hydraulic systems.

⏱ Approx. 45 minutes of visit.

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10:45 a.m.

Arrival at Pikillacta

We will explore this pre-Inca site of the ancient Wari culture, observing its immense planned urban design and well-preserved stone structures.

⏱ Approx. 45 minutes of visit.

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11:45 a.m.

Andahuaylillas and Huaro

We will admire the baroque architecture and impressive murals of the «Sistine Chapel of America». Then, a short walk through Huaro to see its famous 17th-century paintings.

⏱ Approx. 1 hour of visit.

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01:00 p.m.

Local Lunch (Optional)

We will enjoy free time for a typical lunch in the region. This is an excellent opportunity to try the local gastronomy of the South Valley.

⏱ Approx. 1 hour.

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02:30 p.m. – 03:00 p.m.

Return to Cusco

We return to the city, enjoying panoramic views of the South Valley and the mountain range, finishing the tour near the main square.

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Included

Comfortable tourist transportation to and from your hotel (historic center).
Transfers to all locations mentioned in the itinerary.
Bilingual Official Tour Guide (Spanish – English).
Permanent assistance throughout the tour.

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Not Included

Cusco Tourist Ticket (Partial or General BTG required for Tipon and Pikillacta).
Entrance Ticket to the Andahuaylillas Temple (Approx. S/ 15.00).
Food and beverages.
Tips (optional) and personal expenses.

Tour duration

Half Day (Approx. 6 to 7 hours).

Schedule

Start: 08:30 a.m. – End: 03:00 p.m. approx.

Max altitude

11,679 ft / 3,560 m (Tipon).

Difficulty

Easy. Short walks on mostly flat terrain, suitable for all ages.

Tour type

Cultural Tours

Destinations & altitudes

Cusco: 11,152 ft / 3,399 m
Tipon: 11,679 ft / 3,560 m
Pikillacta: 10,498 ft / 3,200 m
Andahuaylillas: 10,242 ft / 3,122 m

Frequently Asked Questions

Any questions?

The tour includes guided visits to the Inca hydraulic complex of Tipon, the pre-Inca Wari city of Pikillacta, the town of Huaro, and the colonial church of Andahuaylillas.

No. It is an easy-level tour. The walks are short, along accessible paths, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including children and older adults.

Yes. To enter the complexes of Tipon and Pikillacta, the Cusco Tourist Ticket (General or Partial) is required. You can purchase it before the tour or directly at the first archaeological site we visit.

No, this entrance is not included in the tour price nor is it part of the Tourist Ticket. You must pay a small entrance fee (approx. S/ 15.00) directly at the church door.

Yes, definitely. It is an excellent half-day option because it does not require intense physical effort, and the altitude is similar to Cusco city, allowing you to acclimatize progressively.

Recommendations

Get ready to enjoy to the fullest

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Bring Sun Protection

The sun in the Andes can be intense even on cloudy days. We strongly recommend bringing sunscreen, a good hat, and sunglasses at all times.

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Wear Comfortable Clothes

We recommend light, layered clothing for walking, as well as a windbreaker jacket, since the weather can change quickly during the day.

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Bring Cash

It is essential to carry cash in Peruvian soles to pay for your Tourist Ticket, the entrance to Andahuaylillas, your lunch, or to buy handmade souvenirs.

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Stay Hydrated

Carry a reusable water bottle with you. Also, make sure to bring your cell phone or camera with a fully charged battery for photographs.

South Valley 1/2
Day

Explore colonial temples, pre-Inca cities, and historical landscapes in the fascinating South Valley of Cusco.

Itinerary – South Valley of Cusco

Any questions?

Get ready to enjoy to the fullest

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Explore colonial temples, pre-Inca cities, and historical landscapes in the fascinating South Valley of Cusco.

Itinerary – South Valley of Cusco

Any questions?

Get ready to enjoy to the fullest

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