Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
CUSCO SOUTH VALLEY TOUR
the day beginning at 8:00 AM, when a private van and guide would pick me up from my hotel for the 40-minute journey southwest of Cusco.
Our first stop would be Tipón, a site that’s part of the legendary Qhapaq Ñan (Inca road system). At 25 km from Cusco, this place is famed as the “Temple of Water.” I can’t wait to see its incredible agricultural terraces, long stairways, and the stone-carved water channels—a unique work of hydraulic engineering that continues to astound modern scientists. I’d explore its thirteen terraces, all surrounded by perfectly polished stone walls, and the royal enclosures where the Incas paid tribute to water.
Next, we’d travel to the Pikillacta Archaeological Center, about 30 km from Cusco. This is one of the most famous and best-preserved pre-Inca cities, belonging to the Wari culture. The name itself is fascinating, coming from the Quechua words Piki (flea or small) and Llacta (town), translating to “Flea Town” or “Small Town.” I’d love to wander its 50-hectare grounds with my guide, learning about the pre-Inca stonework and appreciating its well-planned streets.
The final stop, and the one I’m perhaps most excited about, is the traditional town of Andahuaylillas. Located 36 km from Cusco, this town is part of the Andean Baroque Route. Here, I’d visit its incredible chapel: the Church of San Pedro Apóstol, better known as the Sistine Chapel of America. I’ve read about its beautiful woodwork and the stunning colonial paintings and decorations that cover every surface from floor to ceiling. The visual impact is said to be overwhelming. One of the details I’m dying to see is in its baptistery, where the archway bears the inscription, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen,” written in five languages: Latin, Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, and the rare Puquina.
Finally, after a culturally packed morning, we would head back to Cusco, with the tour finishing around 1:00 PM.
- Cusco Altitude: 3,350 m (10,990 ft).
- Tipón Altitude: 3,560 m (11,679 ft).
- Pikillacta Altitude: 3,250 m (10,662 ft).
- Andahuaylillas Altitude: 3,121 m (10,240 ft).
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
- Comfortable Tourist Van: Reliable transportation is provided for the entire tour, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey between all points of interest.
- First-Aid Kit: For your safety, both the guide and vehicle are equipped with a comprehensive first-aid kit to handle common issues like altitude sickness, scrapes, or digestive upset.
- Oxygen Tank: As a precautionary measure, an oxygen tank is carried in the vehicle. While the Southern Valley is at a lower altitude than Cusco, your safety is the top priority.
- English-Speaking Tour Guide: A professional, knowledgeable, and English-speaking guide will accompany you, providing fascinating historical context that will enrich your experience.
Not Included
- Tourist Ticket: Entry to the Inca archaeological sites is not included. You will need to purchase a tourist ticket separately. The partial ticket for this circuit costs 70 Peruvian Soles.
- Lunch: Lunch is not provided on this half-day tour. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a meal upon your return to Cusco.
- Tips for the Staff: Gratuities are not included and are entirely optional. However, if you are happy with the service, a tip is a much-appreciated gesture in Peru.
What to Pack
Prices
Pricing
Group Service Tour
Includes entrance to all tourist sites
Shared professional guide
Minimum of 2 participants
Price per person: USD 65.00
Private Service Tour
Includes entrance to all tourist sites
Private guide for a personalized experience
Minimum of 2 participants
Price available upon request
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
Faqs and Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions Cusco Tour South Valley 1 Day
What is the best season to visit the Southern Valley?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, the weather is more stable and visibility is clearer, as the landscape is less likely to be covered by clouds.
Can altitude sickness affect me on this tour?
The Southern Valley is located at a lower altitude than Cusco, which reduces the risk of altitude sickness. However, it is highly recommended to acclimatize in Cusco for one or two days before taking the tour and to engage only in light activities during that time.
Is the Southern Valley Tour suitable for children?
Yes, this tour is suitable for children. It is important to follow your travel agent’s recommendations. Children may also be eligible for discounts on certain entrance tickets.
Travel Guide
Things To Know
- Weekend Crowds: The Southern Valley is a popular weekend destination for families from Cusco. The towns of Tipón, Saylla, and Lucre are famous for their traditional cuisine, and restaurants can get very busy. Sundays typically see the heaviest crowds.
- An Authentic Experience: This region receives relatively few international tourists, offering a more authentic and less crowded experience. It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with the local way of life.
- Booking: Last-minute bookings are often possible. However, during the peak season (May to August), it’s wise to book at least a week in advance to ensure guide availability. Entrance tickets are always available.
- Water & Payments: Bottled water is easy to purchase along the route. Remember that cash is essential for buying tourist tickets on-site; credit cards are not accepted.
- Departures: Daily departures are available for this tour, with a minimum of two participants required.
Pro Tips:
- Acclimatize First: When you arrive in Cusco, give yourself at least one day to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude before heading out on tours.
- Prepare for Rain: Even in the dry season, a surprise shower can happen. Being prepared will keep you comfortable.
Lost Objects, Group Tours & Strikes
- Lost Objects: You are responsible for your personal belongings. Keep them with you at all times.
- Group Tours: Be aware that group tours include people of different ages and physical abilities. Everyone will move at their own comfortable pace, so patience and understanding are key.
- Strikes and Demonstrations: Protests are relatively common in Peru and can lead to road blockages. If a strike affects your tour, a reputable company will notify you immediately and offer a full refund for the impacted service or help you reschedule.
Cancellations and Refunds:
- Full Refund: You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour’s scheduled start (minus any non-refundable bank transaction fees).
- Partial Refund: If you cancel within 24 hours of the tour but before 7 PM the day before, you are eligible for a 50% refund.
- No Refund: No refund is available if you cancel after 7 PM the day before the tour.
Tourist Tickets for the Southern Valley
To enter the Inca sites, you must purchase a tourist ticket. You have two main options.
- The General Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico Integral): This is the best choice if you plan to explore Cusco extensively. It provides access to sixteen attractions, including sites in the Southern Valley, a Cusco city tour, and the Sacred Valley. It costs 130 Peruvian Soles (approx. $36 USD) and is valid for ten consecutive days. A discounted rate of 70 Soles (approx. $20 USD) is available for students with a valid ID.
Entrance Tickets
Partial Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico Parcial – Circuit II)
This is the most economical option for visitors who plan to explore only the Southern Valley. The ticket is valid for one day and includes entrance to the archaeological sites of Tipón and Pikillacta.
Price: 70 Peruvian Soles (approximately USD 20)
Student discounts: Not available
San Pedro Church Ticket (Sistine Chapel of the Andes)
This ticket is not included in the Tourist Ticket and must be purchased directly at the church.
Entrance fee: 25 Peruvian Soles
Includes access to Huaro Church; however, this tour itinerary does not allow time to visit it.
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