South Valley Cusco Tour
From US$16 per person
Tipon | Pikillacta | Andahuaylillas
Trip Summary
Total time
6 hours
Meals included
No
Group size
Up to 18 people
Transportation
Bus
Why Pick This Tour
Discover the South Valley route, the perfect alternative to complement your visit to Cusco with a half-day excursion (approx. 6 hours). This tour takes you through three crucial historical periods: the Inca hydraulic engineering of Tipon, the pre-Inca Wari urbanism in Pikillaqta, and the stunning colonial art at the Sistine Chapel of the Americas (Andahuaylillas). Ideal for those looking for history and culture without traveling long distances.
The best part of the tour: Guided tour of South Valley Cusco Tour
Over View – South Valley by Bus – Half Day
This fascinating tour of approximately 6 hours focuses on the historical, architectural, and cultural richness south of the city of Cusco.
The tour begins with pickup from your hotel and the first optional stop in Oropesa, famous for the traditional Chuta bread.
Tipon: The first archaeological site is Tipon, known as the “Temple of Water.” You will admire its impressive terraces and an Inca hydraulic system that still functions, a true engineering masterpiece.
Pikillaqta: Next, you will explore Pikillaqta, an ancient citadel of the Wari culture, noted for its pre-Inca urban planning.
Andahuaylillas: The final stop is the majestic Church of San Pedro Apostol in Andahuaylillas, acclaimed as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” for its murals, gilded altarpieces, and 17th-century baroque ornamentation.
The tour concludes with the return to Cusco at midday, with an optional stop to enjoy local cuisine (lunch not included) before ending at a central point in the city.
Day 1 : Cusco - Tipon - Pikillacta - Andahuaylillas - Return Cusco
We start the tour with pickup from your hotel in the historic center of Cusco. Once the group is assembled, we will depart toward the South Valley. Along the way, the guide will offer the option of a brief stop in Oropesa to taste the famous Chuta bread.
Continuing the tour, the first place we will visit is the Archaeological Complex of Tipon, known as the Temple of Water. This sacred place stands out for its impressive terraces and hydraulic channels, considered a masterpiece of Inca engineering.
Then, we will continue to the Archaeological Center of Pikillaqta, an ancient citadel of the Wari culture, known for its planned urbanism and more than 700 structures.
Finally, we will head to the town of Andahuaylillas, where we will visit the majestic Church of San Pedro Apostol, famous for being the Sistine Chapel of the Americas due to its frescoes and baroque decoration.
At the end of the tour, we will return to Cusco. On the way, there will be an optional stop to enjoy local cuisine (lunch not included). The tour concludes at a central point in the city, near Regocijo Square.
What’s Included
- Tourist Transportation: Transfer Cusco – Tipon – Pikillaqta – Andahuaylillas – Cusco.
- Bilingual Professional Guide: (English – Spanish) throughout the entire tour.
- Full-Time Assistance: Support and help from the organizing team.
What’s Not Included
- Partial Tourist Ticket (Required for Tipon and Pikillaqta).
- Admission Ticket to the Church of Andahuaylillas.
- Food & Beverages: Lunch not included (optional stop).
- Travel Insurance: Not included, but recommended.
- Extra Expenses: Craft purchases or Chuta bread.
Essential Recommendations
I. Logistics & Access
- Documents: Bring your original Passport/ID.
- Tickets Included: This tour includes the Partial Tourist Ticket and the admission to Andahuaylillas, so you do not need to purchase them separately.
- Cash (Soles): Recommended for purchasing Chuta bread in Oropesa or the optional lunch.
II. Essential Gear
- Comfortable Clothing: Light and comfortable clothing, with a warm jacket or windbreaker for mornings and the bus.
- Sun Protection: Hat or cap, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes.
2026 Rate – South Valley by Bus – Half Day
Discover the cultural and historical richness of the Cusco South Valley by visiting the archaeological complex of Tipon, known for its impressive Inca hydraulic system; the pre-Inca site of Pikillaqta, belonging to the Wari culture; and the beautiful colonial Church of Andahuaylillas, famous for its mural paintings and considered the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”
This tour is ideal for those who want to explore history, archaeology, and colonial art on a half-day cultural excursion.
I. 2026 Rate
- Adult: $16 USD per person
- Student: $16 USD per person
Our prices are designed to be market-competitive, offering an affordable option without compromising the quality and organization of the service.
📌 Rates valid for the year 2026.
Prices subject to season and availability.
Booking & Cancellation Policies 2026 – South Valley by Bus – Half Day
- Bookings & Payments
- A 50% advance payment of the total amount is required to confirm the booking.
- The remaining balance must be paid 1 day before the tour.
- The advance payment is non-refundable in case of cancellation by the passenger, although rescheduling may be considered subject to availability.
- Cancellations
- Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice: no refund applies.
- No Show (failure to appear on the day of the tour): 100% of the service will be charged.
- In case of voluntary withdrawal during the tour, there will be no partial or full refund.
- Date Changes
- Changes are allowed with a minimum of 48 hours’ notice, subject to availability.
- Weather Conditions
- The tour operates in almost any weather condition.
- In case of force majeure, the service may be rescheduled.
Are admission tickets included in the price?
Generally no. Tipon and Pikillaqta require the Tourist Ticket and Andahuaylillas has an additional cash admission. We recommend confirming when booking.
At what altitude does the tour take place?
The tour takes place between 10,170 and 11,483 ft (3,100 and 3,500 m.a.s.l.). It is recommended to acclimatize at least 1 day in Cusco.
How physically demanding is it?
It is an easy to moderate level tour, with short walks within the archaeological complexes.
Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the service is normally offered in Spanish and English. Other languages are subject to availability.
Is it a group or private tour?
It is regularly a shared service. Private service can also be requested at an additional cost.
Does it operate in the rain?
Yes, it operates in most weather conditions. In case of extreme weather, it may be rescheduled for safety.
Is it recommended for families?
Yes, it is a cultural tour suitable for families, always considering the altitude.
How far in advance should I book?
During peak season (May to October), booking several days in advance is recommended due to demand.
