South Valley of Cusco. Andahuaylillas, Pikillaqta, Tipón

If you’re looking to escape the bustling streets of Cusco and step into a quieter world of striking landscapes and ancient architecture, the South Valley tour from TRIP TOUR offers a compelling day out. For just around $40 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours exploring four highlights: the Tipón archaeological complex, Pikillacta ruins, Andahuaylillas church, and a scenic drive through charming villages like Saylla.

What we love about this experience is how it balances impressive Incan engineering at Tipón with the pre-Incan Wari culture at Pikillacta—offering a well-rounded glimpse into different eras of Peruvian history. The visit to Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of America”, is a highlight for art lovers and those curious about local religious traditions.

A possible downside is that the entrance fees for Pikillacta and Tipón (70 soles) and Andahuaylillas (15 soles) aren’t included in the base price, so you’ll want to budget for those. Also, since the tour is quite structured, if you’re after a highly flexible or personalized experience, this might feel a bit regimented.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, scenic drives, and authentic local sites—especially those who want a taste of both the ancient and the colonial in a manageable half-day trip. It’s ideal for visitors who prefer a guided experience that takes the hassle out of navigating on their own and want to learn from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Authentic sites: Visit Tipón’s irrigation system, Pikillacta’s pre-Incan ruins, and the beautiful church at Andahuaylillas.
• Scenic drive: Enjoy stunning views as you travel through the lush Cusco countryside.
• Cultural contrast: Experience the difference between Inca and pre-Incan architecture.
• Local insights: Guides provide context that makes the history come alive.
• Affordable: Great value for a full day of exploring with included transportation.
• Limited free time: You’ll spend about an hour at each site, which is enough to appreciate the highlights but not to explore every corner.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the South Valley Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early, around 8:30 AM, with hotel pickup in Cusco. This logistics detail is a real convenience—no need to worry about navigating or finding parking in the city. The group is transported in a comfortable minivan that fits up to 18 people, balancing intimacy with enough space for a relaxed ride.

The journey southeast along the Cusco-Puno route is visually rewarding—rolling hills, traditional villages, and glimpses of the Andes. The timing means you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy the morning light, which makes the scenery even more captivating.

Tipón: An Agricultural Marvel

Your first stop is Tipón, located 24 kilometers southeast of Cusco. This site is lesser-visited compared to Machu Picchu but is equally impressive for its remarkable Inca engineering. Most notable is its irrigation system, which still functions today, watering the surrounding farms. It’s easy to see why this complex is considered one of the most sophisticated Inca water management systems.

We loved the way the terraces and channels blend into the natural landscape, giving a sense of harmony between the architecture and environment. The site’s quietness makes it a peaceful place to contemplate the ingenuity of the Incas. Although some may find the site smaller than other archaeological parks, the detail and craftsmanship are worth appreciating.

Pikillacta: The Wari Urban Center

Next up is Pikillacta, a sprawling pre-Incan city built by the Wari culture, which predates the Incas by centuries. Here, you’ll find over a thousand buildings, including houses, plazas, and temples. Some structures, like the Rumicolca, are up to four stories high, giving a sense of a bustling urban hub.

A guide can explain how Pikillacta functioned as a travel checkpoint for the Incas, and what daily life might have looked like in this ancient city. One review describes it as “a trip back in time,” emphasizing the impressive size and layout of the site. Walking through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine the lives of people who lived there centuries ago, making it a very tangible experience.

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Andahuaylillas: The “Sistine Chapel of America”

The visit to Andahuaylillas is a welcome contrast—the colonial church is a visual feast. Inside, you’ll find gilded altars, colorful paintings, and multi-colored ceilings that have earned the nickname. The outside is modest and unassuming, but once inside, the wealth of artwork and decoration is striking.

Reviews mention the fascinating walls and artistic detail, making it a must-see for lovers of religious art and architecture. This church reflects the deep Catholic influence that has blended with local traditions. It’s a short stop, but one that leaves a memorable impression.

Return Journey and Local Flavors

On the way back to Cusco, passing through Saylla offers a chance to sample famous pork cracklings—a local delicacy. It’s a nice touch for those interested in Peruvian cuisine, and many find it a tasty way to conclude the day.

The tour ends back near Cusco’s main square, making it very convenient for exploring the city afterward or continuing your adventure.

Cost and Value

While the $40 price covers transportation, guide service, and site visits, bear in mind that entrance fees for Pikillacta and Tipón (70 soles) and Andahuaylillas (15 soles) are paid separately. This means the actual out-of-pocket cost is a bit higher, but the combined experience—expert guides, comfortable transport, and expertly curated sites—offers good value.

The guides we encountered are bilingual, providing insights in both English and Spanish, which enhances understanding and engagement. Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides who make history accessible and lively.

Overall Experience and Traveler Fit

This tour shines for those eager to get a broad understanding of different Peruvian cultures—from the sophisticated Inca terraces to the pre-Incan Wari city, and the colonial religious art. If you enjoy scenic drives combined with archaeology and history, this is a perfect choice.

However, if you prefer more time at each site or highly personalized experiences, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, those not keen on paying additional fees might want to budget accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time outside Cusco without sacrificing depth. It’s especially suitable for visitors interested in ancient engineering, pre-Incan cultures, and colonial art. It’s also a good choice if you like comfortable group settings with guides who can answer your questions and bring history alive.

If you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized way to see some of the most interesting sites in the South Valley, this tour offers a solid, authentic experience that balances scenic beauty and cultural discovery.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 8:30 AM with hotel pickup and returning near Cusco’s main square in the early afternoon.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve your spot and pay later, which offers flexibility.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides provide commentary in both English and Spanish.

What should I bring?
Make sure to bring your passport or ID, cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, and some snacks or water for the day.

How much does entrance to sites cost?
Entrance fees for Pikillacta and Tipón total around 70 soles, and Andahuaylillas costs about 15 soles, paid separately from the main tour price.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, small-group minivans are used, ensuring a comfortable ride and good views along the way.

What are the main highlights?
Tipón’s irrigation system, Pikillacta’s pre-Incan ruins, the colonial art in Andahuaylillas, and the scenic drive through the Cusco countryside.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
This tour is fixed in structure; for more personalized or longer visits, consider private options or other tours.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Cusco who wants a taste of the region’s diverse history and landscape, this South Valley day trip is a fantastic choice. It offers a well-balanced mix of nature, archaeology, and culture at a price that makes sense. The sites visited are less crowded than Machu Picchu but equally compelling, providing an authentic look into Peru’s past.

Travelers who appreciate atmospheric ruins, scenic drives, and local art will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s a smart, practical way to deepen your understanding of Peru beyond the city streets, all while enjoying beautiful vistas and engaging storytelling.

Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or someone eager to experience authentic Peruvian culture, this tour delivers a meaningful glimpse into the country’s layered past—without feeling rushed or overly commercial. It’s a solid choice for those seeking value, comfort, and a touch of adventure outside of Cusco.

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