South Valley:Tipon, Piquillacta and Andahuaylillas.

Exploring the South Valley of Cusco: Tipon, Piquillacta, and Andahuaylillas

This tour takes you on a 5-hour journey through some of the most fascinating archaeological sites outside Cusco, including Tipon, known for its sophisticated irrigation system; Piquillacta, a sprawling pre-Inca city built by the Wari culture; and Andahuaylillas, home of the “Sistine Chapel of America.” The experience costs $120 per group for up to 7 people, making it an affordable way to see these highlights at your own pace.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is its flexibility. You get personalized pickup from your hotel, and the one-hour wait at each site ensures you’re not rushed through what matters most to you. The modern, well-maintained vehicle means you travel comfortably between locations, which can be a relief after a morning of sightseeing in high-altitude regions.

A potential consideration is that entrance fees, meals, and guided tours are not included**, so if you want a deeper historical dive, you’ll need to plan for those extras. Still, for travelers eager to explore these sites without the hassle of organizing transport or feeling rushed, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a relaxed, self-paced visit with the flexibility of a private driver.

Key Points

• Flexible, private transport tailored to your schedule and pace
• Visit three diverse sites: Inca terraces, Wari city, and colonial art
• Includes ample time at each location to explore comfortably
• Cost-effective for small groups, with personalized service
• No guide included, so a self-guided approach suits those with some prior knowledge
• Good for travelers seeking authentic sites away from the crowds

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the South Valley Tour

When considering a trip outside Cusco, the South Valley stands out because it combines archaeological marvels with cultural heritage, all within a manageable half-day trip. The tour’s structure, beginning with your hotel pickup, makes it easy. You won’t need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or coordinating multiple entrances—your driver takes care of that.

Tipon: The Wonder of Inca Engineering

Your first stop is Tipon, renowned for its complex irrigation system and terraced agricultural fields that demonstrate the Inca’s mastery of water management. We loved how this site feels alive with history—stone channels and terraces blend into the landscape, and you can imagine how Inca farmers once used this land for flourishing crops. The site is less crowded than Machu Picchu but equally impressive, offering a more intimate experience. One reviewer mentioned, “Tipon’s water channels are incredible, and it’s a peaceful place to walk around.”

Piquillacta: The Wari Urban Planning

Next, you’ll visit Piquillacta, a large pre-Inca city constructed by the Wari culture. The sprawling ruins showcase well-preserved walls and a complex urban grid. It’s a stark contrast to Tipon’s agricultural terraces, offering a glimpse into a different era and civilization. The site’s large stone structures and defensive walls stand as a testament to Wari ingenuity. Visitors have commented on how “Piquillacta feels like stepping into a lost city,” and that the scale of the ruins makes it easy to imagine its past grandeur.

Andahuaylillas: The Colonial Art Treasure

Your final stop is Andahuaylillas, famous for its colonial-era church often called the “Sistine Chapel of America.” Inside, you’ll find beautiful murals and gold-leaf altars, a vivid reminder of the blending of indigenous and Spanish influences. It’s a small site but packed with artistic details that reward careful viewing. Many travelers appreciate the quiet, contemplative atmosphere and the chance to see remarkable colonial art. One reviewer noted, “The church’s murals are stunning, and I loved the peaceful vibe after the archaeological sites.”

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The Practicalities: What to Expect

Your driver, a professional who knows the sites well, will pick you up at your hotel and take you comfortably from one site to the next. The one-hour wait at each location means you can explore without feeling hurried, and you’re free to spend as much or as little time at each site as you like. Since entrance fees aren’t included, you might want to bring cash, especially as some sites may charge a small fee to access certain areas.

The modern vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, and the small group size (up to 7 people) keeps the experience intimate. Keep in mind that meals or drinks are not included, so you might want to bring a snack or water, especially if visiting during the warmer months.

Authenticity and Value

This tour is a practical choice for those curious about pre-Inca civilizations, Inca engineering, or colonial art, but who prefer a self-guided, flexible experience. The price reflects good value for the personalized service and the convenience of transportation, especially when compared to larger group tours that might rush through sites or lack flexibility.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s best suited for travelers who want to see diverse sites without the hassle of organizing transport, and who enjoy exploring at their own pace. It’s also ideal for small groups or families looking for an affordable, comfortable, private outing. If you’re keen on photography, history, or archaeology, the stops along the South Valley provide plenty of material.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of ancient engineering, warlike urban planning, and artistic heritage, all wrapped in a flexible format that respects your pace. For those wanting to experience authentic sites away from the crowds while enjoying the comfort of a private vehicle, it’s a prime choice. The cost per group makes it an accessible way to explore some of the lesser-known but equally impressive parts of the Cusco region.

It’s especially well-suited for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or families seeking a relaxed yet insightful half-day adventure. While there’s no included guide, the driver’s local knowledge and your curiosity will keep the experience engaging. With a little planning for entrance fees and snacks, this tour delivers a genuine, memorable glimpse into the tapestry of Cusco’s surroundings.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees are not included. You should budget for the sites’ admission costs separately, or ask your driver for details on what’s needed.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting from your hotel pickup and including travel time between sites, with one hour allocated for exploring each.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since it’s a private, relaxed experience. Just note that babies under 1 year are not recommended, based on the tour guidelines.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your passport or ID card for site access. Also, consider water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private service, you may discuss specific interests or timing preferences with your driver, making it a flexible experience suited to your needs.

Is food or drinks allowed in the vehicle?
No, food and drinks are not permitted inside the vehicle, so plan accordingly before starting the trip.

In all, this South Valley private tour combines history, culture, and comfort in a way that makes for a thoughtful half-day outing. Whether you’re a history lover, an art enthusiast, or someone eager to see beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour offers enough flexibility and depth to satisfy most curious travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby