Tipon Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas – South Valley tour of Cusco

Exploring Cusco’s South Valley: A Deep Dive Into Lesser-Known Treasures

This South Valley tour offers an eye-opening alternative to the crowds at Machu Picchu. For $69 per person, you’ll spend approximately 5.5 hours discovering the fascinating archaeological sites of Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas, with hotel pickup included. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this small-group journey (limited to 15) promises a personalized experience that reveals the rich layers of Peru’s ancient civilizations.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are its focus on less-visited sites—offering a more authentic feel—and the inclusion of lunch and transport in the price, which simplifies planning. The guide’s insights bring these sites to life, making history accessible and engaging.

However, a point worth considering is that admission tickets are not included for the sites, so you’ll need to budget extra if you wish to enter the churches or ruins. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a small-group, off-the-beaten-path experience and are keen on exploring beyond the usual tourist spots.

If you’re a history buff, a curious traveler wanting to connect with local life, or simply looking for a meaningful half-day adventure outside Cusco’s busy streets, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic sights like Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas offer insight into pre-Columbian and Inca cultures.
• Small-group format ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Includes hotel pickup, transport, and a bottle of water, adding convenience.
• Sites are less touristy, making for a more authentic experience, though entrance fees are extra.
• A flexible, well-paced itinerary with stops in local towns and opportunities to learn from guides.
• Good value considering transport, guiding, and included amenities.

A Closer Look at the South Valley Tour

When you first hear about the South Valley tour, it might seem like a typical day trip. But this one offers a chance to peek behind the tourist curtain and see sites that tell stories of Peru’s diverse past. It’s perfect if you’re eager to expand your understanding of the region’s history without the crowds that flock to Machu Picchu.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Bright and Early:
The tour kicks off at 8:00 am with hotel pickup, often a smooth process in Cusco, thanks to the inclusion of transportation. Your guide, who is likely to be engaging and friendly (as many reviews suggest), will set the tone for the day ahead.

Tipon – A Marvel of Water and Agriculture:
Your first stop is the Inca site of Tipon, famous for its impressive terraces and sophisticated water channels. This site reveals how the Incas mastered agricultural engineering and water management to support their civilization. We loved the way the site’s layout combines natural landscape with human ingenuity, giving a glimpse into Inca ceremonial water worship—a heady mix of engineering and spirituality.

Tipon also offers a taste of local life:
You might see guinea pigs roasting on spits, a local delicacy enjoyed on weekends, and get a feel for small-town life. The short drive to Oropesa, the bread capital of Peru, adds a charming glimpse into rural Peruvian routines—perfect for history lovers and foodies alike.

Pikillacta – A Wari Wonder:
Next, we visit Pikillacta, the only pre-Inca archaeological site in Cusco’s region. Built by the Wari culture (a civilization predating the Incas), it spans around 50 hectares of ancient adobe structures. What makes Pikillacta fascinating is its role as an administrative hub—many of the practices seen here, like terrace farming and urban planning, influenced later Inca methods.

One reviewer remembered feeling cheated because the guide only showed a small part of Pikillacta, but it’s typical for such a vast site to be partially explored during a half-day tour. Still, even a brief visit offers impressive views of adobe walls and a sense of ancient urban planning.

Andahuaylillas – The “Sistine Chapel of the Americas”:
Your final stop is the Andahuaylillas church, renowned for its extraordinary interior artwork and baroque architecture. The paintings, many from the Cusco Religious Art School, make this church feel more like an art gallery than a religious site. The colorful decorations and religious imagery are striking, and many consider it a must-see for art lovers.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

A highlight often mentioned in reviews is how the tour connects you with local life. You’ll pass through small villages, see people going about their routines, and enjoy the relaxed pace. The stops in Tipon and Saylla are perfect for sampling local foods like Cusco-style fried pork (chicharrones)—a must-try for foodies.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transport and Group Size:
The transport is either a private vehicle or a minibus, with a small group of up to 15 travelers. This setup balances comfort with intimacy, allowing your guide to give more personalized insights.

Cost and Value:
At $69, including hotel pickup, transport, and a bottle of water, the tour offers good value. Bear in mind, admission tickets are not included—you should plan extra for entrances if you want to explore the interiors thoroughly.

Timing:
Most travelers find the timing to be well-paced, with about 45-minute stops at each site. The tour wraps up by early afternoon, leaving you free to explore Cusco afterward or relax.

What the Reviews Say

Most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—many describe guides as friendly, informative, and eager to share their passion. One reviewer called their guide “amazing and very kind,” underscoring how much personalized attention you can expect.

However, some reviews express frustration over the limited coverage of Pikillacta or extra costs for entrance tickets. One reviewer felt cheated when the guide didn’t take them to Pikillacta, but the explanation provided was that only part of the site can be visited in the allotted time. Another pointed out the lack of water and lunch included, but these are minor issues considering the overall value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who prefers small groups and personalized attention, this tour is a good fit. It’s ideal for travelers interested in less-touristy sites and culture. Those who are comfortable with extra costs for entrances and are eager to learn from guides will find this experience rewarding.

It’s also suitable for travelers who want a well-organized, half-day trip that avoids the chaos of larger tours. If sightseeing at a leisurely pace, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and stop at small towns, sounds appealing, this is for you.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour provides a balanced mix of history, local life, and stunning landscapes. While it doesn’t include admission fees, the included transport, guide, and small group size make it a sensible choice for those wanting an authentic and relaxed experience outside Cusco’s hustle.

It’s especially good for history lovers eager to explore the Wari culture, Inca terraces, and colonial churches in one day. The focus on less-visited sites offers a richer, more genuine perspective of the region’s past and present.

For anyone craving a personalized, informative, yet relaxed day trip that combines history, culture, and cuisine, this South Valley tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the early afternoon.

What is included in the price?
You get transport, an English-speaking guide, a small-group experience, and a bottle of water. Lunch and admission fees are not included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, especially since it’s a half-day tour with manageable walking. Check with your guide if you have specific needs.

Can I visit the interior of sites like Andahuaylillas or Tipon?
Admission tickets are not included, so exploring the churches or ruins inside will require extra purchase.

What about the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 people, promoting a more intimate and engaging experience.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The sites are photogenic, with beautiful terraces, adobe walls, and colorful churches. Early morning or late afternoon may offer the best light.

To sum it up, this South Valley tour balances history, culture, and local flavor, all within a manageable and affordable package. It’s perfect if you want to see a different side of Cusco—one that’s rich in stories but less crowded. With good guides and authentic sites, it’s a memorable way to deepen your understanding of Peru’s diverse past, especially if you’re keen on exploring beyond the usual tourist spots.