The South Valley Tour in Cusco is offered every morning from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. We will pick you up 30 minutes before the tour starts from your hotel, then head southeast of the city to explore a region filled with natural beauty and ancient architecture.
We’ll visit the Inca archaeological complex of Tipón, the pre-Inca Wari city of Pikillacta, and the stunning colonial church of Andahuaylillas, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”
Along the way, you’ll also enjoy glimpses of local life and the rich culinary offerings of the region.
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
Join us on an unforgettable journey through the South Valley of Cusco, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes come together for a truly unique experience. On this tour, we’ll explore some of the region’s lesser-known but equally stunning archaeological and historical treasures.
We begin our adventure at Tipón, an archaeological site that showcases the Incas’ impressive hydraulic engineering, featuring agricultural terraces and water channels that still function today.
Next, we head to Pikillacta, a vast city built by the Wari civilization, a pre-Inca culture that thrived in this region long before the rise of the Inca Empire. Its remains reveal an advanced and organized society.
Finally, we visit the church of Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” for its breathtaking colonial architecture and stunning frescoes.
This tour will take you through striking landscapes, where each site tells a unique story. Join us on this journey through time and discover the best-kept secrets of Cusco’s South Valley.
An unforgettable experience awaits!
This archaeological site belongs to the Inca period and is known for its impressive irrigation system.
You’ll observe water flowing through vertical and horizontal canals across stepped terraces, originating from a natural spring that still functions today.
Tipón was an important center for agricultural production and hydraulic experimentation.
Pikillacta is a large archaeological complex from the **pre-Inca Wari civilization**, believed to have been an important administrative center.
Its layout features organized streets forming quadrants, double-story structures, stuccoed walls, and paved floors — a testament to advanced urban planning long before the Incas.
Located about 45 minutes south of Cusco, the town of Andahuaylillas is home to a traditional Andean village and the famous colonial church known as the **”Sistine Chapel of the Americas”**.
Its interior is adorned with stunning Baroque paintings covering the walls and ceiling, offering a glimpse into colonial religious art in Peru.
The “South Valley Tour: Tipón, Pikillacta & Andahuaylillas” was a wonderful way to explore some lesser-known but fascinating sites near Cusco. I loved seeing the impressive Inca irrigation system at Tipón and the well-preserved ruins of Pikillacta. Andahuaylillas surprised me with its beautiful church, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.” The guide was friendly and shared great insights into the history and culture of each place. It was a relaxed and enriching day, perfect if you want to dive deeper into the region beyond the usual spots.
