Cusco South Valley

1 day (8 hours)

Up to 20

3,400m / 11,154ft

easy

1 day (8 hours)

20 pax

easy

3,400m

Overview

A journey through the history and culture of the Incas in the South Valley of Cusco. Visit Tipon, Pikillaqta and the church of Andahuaylillas, the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas".

A journey through the history and culture of the Incas in the South Valley of Cusco. Visit Tipon with its incredible Inca hydraulic system, Pikillaqta from the pre-Inca Wari culture, and the church of Andahuaylillas known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" for its stunning murals.

This tour combines Inca hydraulic engineering, pre-Inca Wari archaeology and colonial baroque art in a single day. A complete cultural experience that reveals the different layers of Cusco's history.

Experience Highlights

Itinerary at a Glance

Cusco – Tipon – Pikillaqta – Andahuaylillas – Cusco

Pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. We head south of Cusco to discover the historical treasures of this less-known but fascinating route.

First stop at Tipon, an impressive Inca archaeological complex famous for its sophisticated hydraulic system. The water fountains and channels still work perfectly after more than 500 years, demonstrating the Inca mastery of hydraulic engineering. Our guide will explain how the Incas controlled water flow with millimetric precision.

We continue to Pikillaqta, an extensive urban settlement of the Wari culture (pre-Inca, 6th-9th centuries). This site reveals an advanced civilization prior to the Incas, with organized streets, plazas and buildings up to three stories high.

We enjoy a typical lunch with dishes from Cusco's gastronomy. Afterwards, we visit the church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" for its spectacular baroque murals, golden ceilings and 17th-century canvases.

After the visit, we begin the return to Cusco, arriving approximately at 3:30 PM.

Accommodation

Max Altitude

3,400 msnm

Meals

What Is Included?

Included

Professional guide
Hotel pickup
Tourist transport
Lunch

Not Included

General Cusco Tourist Ticket: S/. 130 (Foreigners), S/. 70 (Nationals)
Partial Cusco Tourist Ticket: S/. 70 (Foreigners), S/. 40 (Nationals)
Tips
Personal expenses

Before You Go

Recommendations

Bring the Tourist Ticket purchased in advance or cash to buy it

Comfortable clothing, sunscreen and hat

Bring cash in soles for purchases and offerings at the church

Suitable for the whole family including children and elderly

Photography is not allowed inside the Andahuaylillas church

Pricing

2026 Tour Price

Price per person

US$18

This tour is guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 people. Prices may vary according to season.

Book Online

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Tourist Ticket?

It is a ticket that gives access to various archaeological sites in Cusco, including Tipon and Pikillaqta. It can be purchased at the INC office or at the entrance of each site.

Is the tour suitable for children and elderly?

Yes, the tour has low difficulty and is accessible for people of all ages. The walks are short and the terrain is mostly flat.

Can I take photos inside the church?

No, photography is prohibited inside the Andahuaylillas church to preserve the artwork. But you can take photos of the exterior.

Is altitude acclimatization needed?

The tour takes place at moderate altitudes (3,400 m.a.s.l.), similar to the city of Cusco. No additional acclimatization is required.