South Valley in Cusco a lovely tour!!.

Discover the Hidden Corners of Cusco: South Valley Tour

If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots and get a real feel for local Cusco, this South Valley tour offers an excellent way to do just that. For around $22 per person, you’ll spend approximately six hours exploring less crowded but equally impressive sites, with the added comfort of hotel pickup. It’s a chance to see Inca engineering at Tipón, wander through the mysterious Wari ruins at Pikillacta, and marvel at the colonial art in Andahuaylillas.

What makes this tour special? First, it takes you out of the bustling city center into authentic neighborhoods and rural scenery—a real window into everyday life in Cusco. Second, its well-organized itinerary ensures you visit three distinct sites that showcase the diversity of Peruvian history, from pre-Inca civilizations to colonial art.

A quick consideration: this tour focuses on site visits and scenic drives, so if you’re after interactive activities or a more gourmet experience, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, if you prefer culture and historical insight in a manageable timeframe, it fits the bill.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authenticity, history, and beautiful landscapes, especially those eager to explore off-the-beaten-path spots with knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a value-packed day that combines learning and scenery.

Key Points

• Affordable value for a full-day tour of notable sites outside Cusco’s city center.
• Includes all entry tickets and transportation, simplifying logistics.
• Visits three unique locations: Tipón, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas, each with its own story.
• Small group experience with a maximum of 17 travelers, ensuring personal attention.
• Knowledgeable guides who enrich your understanding of local history and culture.
• Comfortable pickup at your hotel or designated meeting point.

A Closer Look at the South Valley Experience

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or a meeting point in Cusco between 8:30 and 9:00 am, giving you a fresh start to the day. The first stop is Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of America” because of its spectacular colonial murals and artwork. The church’s interior is a highlight that leaves visitors in awe. One reviewer praised it as “amazing once you enter, the mural painting it has is really wonderful,” emphasizing that this site is more than just a church — it’s a piece of art history.

Next, the group heads to Pikillacta, a site built by the Wari culture in the 6th century — predating the Incas. Its mysterious ruins and enormous stone walls give us a glimpse into a civilization that remains somewhat enigmatic, adding a layer of archaeological intrigue.

The final stop is Tipón, renowned for its ingenious water channels and terraced hillside. These Inca-engineered systems are a testament to their advanced hydraulic and agricultural techniques. Here, visitors can appreciate the precision and practicality of Inca engineering, which has allowed the site to survive remarkably well through centuries.

What You Can Expect at Each Spot

In Andahuaylillas, you’ll have about 45 minutes to explore the church’s interior and its artistic treasures. Expect to be amazed by the vivid murals and colonial-era craftsmanship.

At Pikillacta, your guide will likely point out the walled structures and pre-Inca architecture. Since admission tickets are not included, you might want to bring some extra cash if you wish to explore more deeply or purchase souvenirs.

The Tipón site offers another 45-minute visit — here, you’ll walk along Inca water channels and terraces, gaining insight into their sophisticated water management systems. The experience is both educational and aesthetically pleasing, with panoramic views and lush surroundings.

The Practicalities

Transport is included, making it easy to hop from site to site without worrying about logistics. The small group size ensures that you get more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions freely. All tickets for the sites are included, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs — though lunch is not included, offering flexibility to choose a local spot for a traditional Peruvian meal after the tour.

The meeting point is centrally located in Cusco, at Plaza Regocijo, which is convenient for most travelers. The tour ends back at your original meeting point, making logistics simple.

Authenticity and Reviews

One of the most praised aspects of this tour, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guide. Comments like “the tour guide was super friendly” and “responsible and with personalized service” highlight the value of having a guide who can share insights and humor, making the experience more engaging.

Travelers also emphasize the stunning scenery and beautiful sites. One reviewer noted, “Very few know this tour and if it is worth it. The places are very beautiful,” confirming that this is a less touristy way to see Cusco’s surroundings.

The Price and Value

At $22, this tour provides excellent value considering all transportation, guiding, and entry tickets are included. For a full day of exploration with authentic sites and small-group attention, it’s a budget-friendly way to deepen your understanding of Cusco’s diverse history.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and get a more local perspective. It’s perfect if you’re interested in ancient civilizations, Inca engineering, or colonial art. The small group setting makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to interact with guides and learn more about Peruvian culture. If you’re after an insightful, scenic, and reasonably priced cultural tour, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

The South Valley in Cusco tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances history, scenery, and local flavor. The sites visited show a diverse range of Peruvian heritage — from pre-Inca civilizations at Pikillacta to Inca engineering at Tipón, and colonial art at Andahuaylillas.

You’ll appreciate the professionalism of the guides, who seem genuinely invested in sharing their knowledge, and the scenic beauty of each location. Plus, the value for money cannot be overstated, especially when considering the all-inclusive approach.

This tour is best suited for those seeking an authentic cultural experience without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. It’s perfect for history buffs, photographers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative day outside the city.

In short, if you’re eager to discover less crowded sites that tell the story of Cusco’s past, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

What times does the tour start and end?
Pickup occurs between 8:30 and 9:00 am, and the tour finishes back at the meeting point in Cusco, typically around 3-4 pm.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transport between all the sites, making the day comfortable and hassle-free.

Are tickets to the sites included?
All tickets to the sites visited are included, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs for entrance.

How many people are typically in the group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 17 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat after the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a family-friendly activity, especially if your kids enjoy outdoor exploration and history.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Just wear comfortable shoes, bring some water, and be ready to enjoy a day filled with stunning sites and stories.

This South Valley tour offers an authentic and affordable way to deepen your understanding of Cusco’s origins and culture. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a meaningful day outside the city hustle, this experience delivers on all counts.