South Valley Half-Day Tour

The South Valley Tour offers you the chance to experience both Inca and pre-Inca cultures, as well as colonial history. The half-day tour shows Tipon, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas from Cusco. This private service also visits Quechuan villages and its bakeries for the best local experience. Additionally, the South Valley is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and discover lesser-known but equally fascinating sites.

With our South Valley Half-day Tour you will enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Andean highlands, green valleys, lakes and agricultural terraces. The private south valley tour typically takes seven hours aboard your modern mini van. You and our local tour guide head towards the south, also known as the culinary route of Cusco. Our expert guide delivers an exceptional information as you visit the archeological sites and local villages.

The South Valley Half-day Tour takes place at the beginning of the road to Lake Titicaca and Rainbow Mountain. If you have an extra day, you will be able to visit the South Valley of Cusco. Travelers with short time hardly see these places because there are lots of things to do and see in Cusco. But the South Valley attractions in Cusco offer a tranquil environment with fewer people which adds an extra context to your experience.

This half-day South Valley Tour is an excellent way to explore the diverse history, culture, and natural beauty surrounding Cusco. Whether you’re interested in Inca archaeology, colonial art, or local traditions, this tour offers a more relaxed and intimate experience compared to the more popular attractions in the region. It’s also perfect for those who want to immerse in the local culture and discover the hidden gems from distinct historic stages.

SOUTH VALLEY HALF-DAY TOUR – HIGHLIGHTS

TIPON: Inca Hydraulic Engineering Marvel
Tipon is known for its remarkable irrigation system that showcases the ingenuity of Inca engineering. The site features:

Elaborate Canals: Tipon contains numerous channels that once transported water from nearby spring.
Water Distribution: This system effectively irrigated terraces used for agriculture, demonstrating advanced techniques.

The scale of Tipon’s irrigation system is impressive, with over 10 kilometers of canals thought to have served as both functional and ceremonial purposes. The stonework at Tipon is pristine, indicating the site’s importance as possibly a royal estate or agricultural hub within the Inca empire.

PIQUILLACTA: Pre-Inca City 
Piquillacta reveals a fascinating pre-Inca history tied to the Wari culture. Key points about Piquillacta include:

Wari Roots: This ancient city dates back to around 500 AD, featuring a unique layout that depicts the Wari’s sophisticated urban planning.
Archaeological Evidence: Ruins, including extensive walls and canals, show how the Wari utilized the landscape efficiently.

When the Incas arrived, they adapted the existing structures, altering Piquillacta for their own purposes. The site’s strategic location made it a critical point on the Inca road network, enhancing trade and communication across the region.

ANDAHUAYLILLAS: The Sistine Chapel of the Americas
Andahuaylillas is often dubbed the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” Its stunning history reveals how this church transformed from a simple structure into a breathtaking masterpiece. Highlights of Andahuaylillas include:

Significant Construction: Built in the 16th century, its development reflected the blend of indigenous and Spanish architectural styles.
Artistic Influences: The ornate interior showcases colorful frescoes and intricate altarpieces, combining European techniques with local traditions.

The preservation of this unique artwork is critical. Ongoing efforts ensure that the stunning visuals of Andahuaylillas continue to inspire visitors. From its architecture to the stories it tells, this site invites exploration and admiration.