South Valley Tour of Cusco

The South Valley of Cusco is a lesser-known but equally fascinating region filled with archaeological ruins, natural landscapes, and rich history. This tour is perfect for those looking to explore areas off the beaten path, focusing on pre-Inca and colonial culture. The journey will take travelers to Tipón, an agricultural terrace complex, Piquillacta, a pre-Inca city of the Wari culture, and the Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas," famous for its colonial art.

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary (Full Day):

7:30 am – Departure from Cusco:

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 7:30 am. Travelers will board a comfortable vehicle to start the journey towards the South Valley. The first stop will be Tipón, located about 30 minutes from Cusco.

8:00 am – Visit to Tipón:

The first stop is Tipón, an impressive archaeological site known for its agricultural terraces and Inca hydraulic system. Tipón is famous for its water channels, which are still functional, and its terraces, which were used for agriculture during the Inca Empire. The site offers panoramic views of the valley and is a great place to learn about Incan agricultural engineering and their relationship with water.

9:30 am – Departure to Piquillacta:

After visiting Tipón, the tour will continue towards Piquillacta, an important archaeological site of the Wari culture, located about 30 minutes from Tipón.

10:00 am – Visit to Piquillacta:

At Piquillacta, travelers will explore the ruins of an ancient pre-Inca city, dating back to approximately the 6th century. Piquillacta was a city of the Wari culture, and while it was not built by the Incas, it is an impressive site due to its size and the stone walls that remain intact. Travelers will learn about the history and customs of the Wari culture, which influenced the Inca Empire, though it predates their arrival.

11:30 am – Departure to Andahuaylillas:

After visiting Piquillacta, the tour will continue towards Andahuaylillas, a charming village known for its colonial church, which is the next stop on the itinerary.

12:00 pm – Visit to Andahuaylillas Church:

The Andahuaylillas Church, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas," is famous for its interior decoration in the Baroque style, with murals and paintings dating back to the 16th century. Travelers will admire the masterpiece of colonial religious art, including stunning frescoes and gilded carvings. The church is a testament to the religious art of the colonial era and the cultural syncretism between Spanish colonizers and Andean peoples.

1:00 pm – Lunch on the Way:

Next, the group will stop for a traditional lunch at a local restaurant in the South Valley. Travelers will be able to enjoy regional dishes such as cuy chactado, roast chicken, and local soups.

2:30 pm – Return to Cusco:

After a delicious lunch, the tour will begin the return journey to Cusco, with an estimated arrival time around 4:00 pm. During the drive, travelers will enjoy panoramic views of the South Valley and its natural surroundings.