From US$127 per person.
South Valley Full Day
- Tipón's hydraulic engineering: Marvel at the grand royal terraces where water still flows flawlessly through finely carved stone channels.
- Pre-Incan metropolis of Pikillacta: Explore the massive, fortified urban center of the Wari culture, featuring impressive stone walls and symmetrical streets.
- The Sistine Chapel of America: Visit San Pedro church in Andahuaylillas and admire its stunning gold-leaf altars, murals, and Mudéjar-style ceilings.
- Peaceful crowd-free journey: Discover the hidden treasures of Cusco's southern valley at your own pace, completely away from traditional tourist crowds.
Discover the most emblematic sites of the South Valley, a cultural route where water temples, pre-Inca cities, and colonial art of incalculable value come together.
Explore Cusco's fascinating South Valley, a less crowded route yet full of living history, wide landscapes, and temples that reveal the engineering and spirituality of ancient Andean cultures. This tour combines the hydraulic majesty of Tipón, the enigmas of the pre-Inca Wari city of Pikillacta, and the artistic beauty of the Sistine Chapel of America in Andahuaylillas. Ideal for cultural travelers, history lovers, and those looking for an authentic experience beyond traditional routes.
At a glance
- Days: 1
- Highest point: 3600 m
- Price: From US$127 per person
Itinerary
Day 1: South Valley Exploration, Temples, pre-Inca cities, and colonial art
Altitude: 3100 a 3600 m · Meals: · Overnight: Cusco (3400 m)
The tour begins with hotel pickup between 08:30 and 09:00 hrs to explore the fascinating South Valley of Cusco, one of the most authentic cultural circuits in Peru. The first visit will be to the archaeological complex of Tipón, famous for its extraordinary system of channels and water fountains built by the Incas. We will then explore Pikillacta, one of the most important cities of the Wari culture, recognized for its advanced urban planning and great historical value, before continuing to Andahuaylillas, home to the impressive Sistine Chapel of the Americas, a jewel of colonial Baroque art.
In addition to its historical richness, this tour is known as the Gastronomic Route of Cusco, where travelers can taste traditional specialties such as chicharrón de cerdo (fried pork), artisanal oven-roasted cuy (guinea pig), and the emblematic Pan Chuta from Oropesa, considered one of Peru's most representative breads. The tour ends with the return to the city of Cusco at around 16:00 hrs, offering a perfect experience for those looking to combine archaeology, heritage, local gastronomy, and Andean culture before or after visiting Machu Picchu. This tour is especially recommended for travelers from Europe and the United States who wish to discover authentic, less crowded destinations in the Cusco region.
What is included
- Tickets and permits Partial tourist ticket, South Valley (Tipón, Pikillacta).
- High-quality service and safety Pre-departure briefing, official bilingual guides, first aid kit and 24/7 assistance.
- Transportation Shared round-trip transfer from your hotel in Cusco.
What is not included
- Ticket to the Sistine Chapel of Andahuaylillas Adults: PEN 15 (US$5). Students and children (11-17 years old): PEN 10 (US$4). Adults: EXT 20 (US$6). Students and children (11-17 years old): EXT 15 (US$5).
- Meals Breakfast, lunch, and dinner not included.
- Tips Optional but appreciated by our staff.
Frequently asked questions
What places does the Southern Valley Full Day tour visit?
The tour visits Tipón (Inca terraces and water channels), Pikillacta (pre-Inca Wari ruins), Lake Huacarpay and Andahuaylillas (known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas"). Duration: 8 hours.
Are entrance fees included?
Some entries may be included depending on the package. Tipón and Pikillacta require the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Check with us to confirm what is covered in your booking.
What time does the tour depart and return?
Departure is at 9:00 AM from the hotel in Cusco and return is around 5:30, 6:00 PM. Lunch at a local restaurant is included.
Is it a private or group tour?
We offer both options. Shared group tours are more budget-friendly, while a private tour gives you more flexibility in schedule and pace.
Can it be combined with the City Tour or Sacred Valley?
Yes. The Southern Valley can be combined with the City Tour (morning + afternoon) or as part of a multi-day itinerary. Contact us to design the ideal package for you.
What is the Southern Valley of Cusco?
The Southern Valley is the archaeological corridor south of Cusco that concentrates a series of historic sites less visited but equally fascinating as the Sacred Valley: from the Inca hydraulic complex of Tipón to the pre-Inca ruins of Pikillacta and the colonial gem of Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas".
What is Tipón and why is it special?
Tipón is an Inca archaeological complex at 3,200 m / 10,500 ft known as the Inca "water garden." Its system of canals, fountains and agricultural terraces with permanently running water 500 years later demonstrates Inca mastery of hydraulic engineering. It is one of the most underrated and magical sites in the Cusco region.
Is the Southern Valley tour suitable for all ages?
Yes. The Southern Valley tour is accessible for all ages. Visits to Tipón, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas involve short walks on relatively flat terrain. Lunch at a local restaurant is also a comfortable family experience. The altitude (3,000, 3,400 m / 9,840, 11,150 ft) is lower than other Andean destinations.
What is the best time to visit the Southern Valley?
The Southern Valley can be visited year-round. The dry season (May, October) is most recommended for clear skies. In the rainy season (November, April) Tipón's terraces become even greener and more lush. The tour operates every day of the year except local holidays.
What is Andahuaylillas and why is it called the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas"?
Andahuaylillas is a small town 37 km from Cusco whose 17th-century Jesuit church is notable for its interior walls completely decorated with frescoes, gilding and Andean Baroque paintings of extraordinary richness. This floor-to-ceiling decorative profusion earned it the nickname "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" and it is one of the masterpieces of Latin American Baroque.
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