Cusco South Valley Tour – South Valley Tour Cusco

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  • Length Of The TourHalf Day Tour
  • Group SizeUpto 9 People
  • Max. Altitude3,500 meters (11,480 feet) - Tipon
  • DifficultyEasy

Cusco South Valley Tour Details

The Cusco South Valley Tour will take you through a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As we explore the valley of Cusco, you will encounter a blend of stunning landscapes and archaeological wonders. This region is distinct from the more well-known Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

This tour will offer a unique experience as we journey to some of the most fascinating sites in the region.

We will start from the vibrant city of Cusco and make our way into the heart of the South Valley. Along the way, we will visit historical treasures like Tipón, an ancient agricultural site. Here, we will marvel at the impressive Inca water channels and agricultural terraces, demonstrating the engineering genius of the civilization that thrived here. Our expert tour guide will share insights into how these structures were used, giving you a deeper understanding of the pre-Inca and Inca heritage of this valley in Cusco.

Another highlight of the tour will be the visit to Pikillacta, a fascinating pre-Inca city built by the Wari civilization. We will wander through its extensive ruins, imagining what life was like in this bustling city over a thousand years ago. You will feel the history come alive as we explore its complex layout, revealing the intricate planning of one of Peru’s most influential ancient cultures.

The journey will also take us to the charming town of Andahuaylillas, home to the Church of San Pedro. Often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of America,” this church will amaze us with its intricate murals, gold-leaf altars, and exquisite artwork. This visit will provide a glimpse into the region’s colonial past and its blend of European and Andean influences. It is a cultural gem that complements the tour’s archaeological highlights.

Throughout the Cusco South Valley Tour, we will travel across a landscape dotted with small traditional villages and scenic views. We may also spot local farms where Andean crops are grown. Perhaps we may even see the famous Peruvian guinea pigs, a staple in the local diet. The valley of Cusco sits at an elevation of about 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) above sea level. We will ensure everyone has ample time to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness as we explore.

A valid Cusco Tourist Ticket will be required for entry to some of these archaeological sites. As a responsible tour operator, we will assist you in obtaining this ticket if needed. The South Valley Tour will be an enriching experience, different from the popular Rainbow Mountain and Sacred Valley routes. It will provide an off-the-beaten-path adventure for those eager to learn more about the diverse history and culture of the Cusco region.

Luan Travel Peru will guide you every step of the way. We will be ensuring a seamless and memorable journey through this less-explored yet equally captivating part of the Cusco region. By the end of the tour, you will have gained a deeper appreciation for the valley’s unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness.

South Valley Tour Cusco Includes

  • Tick
    Professional bi-lingual local tour guide
  • Tick
    Tourist transportation
  • Tick
    Cusco Tourist ticket
  • Tick
    Entrance Ticket to Andahuaylilas

South Valley Tour Cusco Excludes

  • Cross
    Meals
  • Cross
    Any Personal Expenses

What to Expect from Cusco South Valley Tour?

On the Cusco South Valley Tour, you can expect to explore fascinating archaeological sites, charming villages, and breathtaking Andean landscapes. We will visit the “Sistine Chapel of America” in Andahuaylillas, marvel at the Inca engineering at Tipón, and uncover the mysteries of the pre-Inca city of Pikillacta. Each stop will immerse you in the rich history and culture of the Cusco region, guided by our knowledgeable team.

Throughout the journey, you will enjoy stunning views of the valleys and mountains, passing through traditional villages along the way. The tour will take place at high altitudes, so we will pace our explorations to ensure you acclimatize comfortably. Expect an enriching experience filled with history, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories.

Cusco South Valley Tour Itinerary

South Valley Tour Cusco

We will start the South Valley Tour Cusco with a pick-up from your hotel in the morning. Our first destination will be the village of Andahuaylillas. It is located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Cusco City at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,170 feet). Here, we will visit the famous Church of San Pedro. It is called the “Sistine Chapel of America” because of its stunning artwork. 

As we step inside, you will marvel at the intricate murals and the impressive gold-leaf altar. After exploring the church, we will take a leisurely walk through the village’s main square, which is beautifully decorated with “pisonay” (coral trees) and palm trees.

Next, we will continue the journey to the Archaeological Complex of Tipón, situated east of Cusco. This site covers around 2,200 hectares (5,436 acres) and sits at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,480 feet). Here, we will explore a series of royal rooms built by the Inca Wiraqocha for his father, Yawar Wakaq. 

The site boasts 12 fertile agricultural terraces that are still cultivated today. You will be amazed by the intricate irrigation system, an example of advanced Inca hydraulic engineering. The water channels, crafted with precise stonework, include almost vertical waterfalls that are still functional. 

Some of the fountains here may have served ceremonial purposes. Due to its location and surrounding wall, Tipón was likely an exclusive site for the Inca elite. 

As we walk around, we will also see the remains of an ancient cemetery, known as “Pitopuqyo,”. Here broken ceramic pieces still lie scattered.

Our final stop will be the Pikillacta Archaeological Complex, covering an expansive area of 3,421 hectares (8,453 acres). Located about 32 kilometers (20 miles) southeast of Cusco at an altitude of 3,350 meters (11,000 feet), Pikillacta dates back to the Wari civilization. On our way there, we will pass the scenic Wakarpay Lagoon, which sits at 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) above sea level. 

Once at Pikillacta, we will explore the vast layout of this ancient city. Its name, meaning “town of the flea” in Quechua, was given during the colonial period, though its original name remains unknown. As we walk through the ruins, you will gain insights into the advanced urban planning of the Wari culture.

After we explore Pikillacta, we will conclude the tour and begin our return journey to Cusco City.

Cusco South Valley Tour FAQ

How long does the Cusco South Valley Tour take?

The tour typically takes around 6 to 7 hours. We start in the morning with hotel pick-up and return to Cusco in the afternoon.

What is the altitude of the sites visited on the tour?

The South Valley sites range from 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) at Andahuaylillas to 3,500 meters (11,480 feet) at Tipón. We recommend taking it easy during the tour to acclimatize to the altitude.

What should I wear and bring for the tour?

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and layers as the weather can change quickly. Bring a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and some snacks for the journey.

Do we need to worry about altitude sickness on this tour?

Altitude sickness can affect some visitors, as the sites are located above 3,000 meters (9,840 feet). We recommend drinking plenty of water, taking it slow, and possibly bringing coca leaves or candies to help with acclimatization.

Can I book the Cusco South Valley Tour on short notice?

We recommend booking in advance to secure your spot, but we do our best to accommodate last-minute bookings based on availability.

Price
From$55
Available: 9 seats
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