- Duration 1 Day
- Difficulty Easy
- Group size 8 to 12 people
- Max. altitude 3,600 m (11,810 ft)
- Travel style Tour, adventure
- Departure Cusco
Our South Valley tour from Cusco is a trip of about 5 and a half hours that leaves Cusco at 8:30 a.m. and returns around 2:00 p.m. We visit Tipón, Pikillacta and the Andahuaylillas church, with tourist transport, a guide in English, Spanish or Portuguese, entrance fees and water included, from US$45 per person.
It is a less crowded route than the region’s most famous ones, and it brings together Inca engineering, a pre-Inca city and colonial art in a single day. We travel in groups of 8 to 12 people, and our guides explain the historical background of every stop.
Where is the South Valley of Cusco?
The South Valley lies southeast of the city of Cusco, along the road toward Puno. Its sites are between 40 minutes and 1.5 hours by vehicle from the city, which makes it an easy day trip. You do not need to arrange transport: it is included for the whole tour.
What is the South Valley tour like?
Here is an overview of the day; the full details are in the itinerary tab.
| When | Stop | What you will see |
|---|---|---|
| 8:30 a.m. | Departure from Cusco | Drive southeast of the city |
| First stop | Tipón | Inca terraces, canals and fountains that still work today |
| Second stop | Pikillacta | A Wari citadel, older than the Incas, with high walls, plazas and narrow streets |
| Third stop | Andahuaylillas | The colonial church known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” |
| Around 2:00 p.m. | Return to Cusco | End of the tour, about 5 and a half hours after departure |
Tipón, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas
At Tipón you will see how the Incas mastered water: canals, fountains and farming terraces that still function. If this interests you, our post on Inca economy, engineering and religion gives more background. Pikillacta is a city built by the Wari before the Inca Empire, known for its urban planning. In Andahuaylillas, the colonial church impresses with frescoes, gilded altars and paintings that blend Andean and Catholic beliefs.
South Valley tour in Cusco: altitude and difficulty
The highest point of the route is about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) above sea level, only a little above the city of Cusco at roughly 3,400 m (11,150 ft). It is an easy tour with short walks, suitable for children and older travelers, although some sites have uneven ground. Even so, we recommend spending at least 24 hours in Cusco first and staying well hydrated.
Lunch is not included; there are local restaurants along the route where you can eat on your own. Bring cash in soles, since cards are not accepted everywhere. Photos are allowed inside the Andahuaylillas church, but without flash.
Best time to visit the South Valley
The tour runs all year. The dry season, from May to October, is ideal thanks to clearer skies. In the rainy months the landscape is greener; bring a light waterproof jacket, because the weather in the valley changes during the day.
South Valley or Sacred Valley?
The South Valley is a shorter, quieter day with fewer visitors, and it combines a Wari citadel, older than the Incas, with one of the most remarkable colonial churches in Peru. Our Sacred Valley VIP tour is a full day with Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray and Maras. If you have time, you can do both after our Cusco city tour.
Book with a local Cusco agency
We are a Cusco-based agency and run our own South Valley departures. Book through the form on this page or contact us: we will confirm your spot and send you the meeting point and departure time.
Full itinerary
South Valley of Cusco Tour Itinerary
Tipón: Inca hydraulic engineering
We start the day at Tipón, an archaeological site famous for its advanced hydraulic system and farming terraces. Here you will learn about the Incas' impressive water management and see canals and fountains that still work today.
Pikillacta: the pre-Inca city
Next, we head to Pikillacta, a citadel of the Wari culture (pre-Inca) known for its complex urban planning. The site is a remarkable example of pre-Inca organization, with high walls, plazas and narrow streets.
Andahuaylillas: the Sistine Chapel of the Americas
The tour continues in the town of Andahuaylillas, where we visit its colonial church, known as the Sistine Chapel of the Americas. The interior is decorated with frescoes, gilded altars and colonial paintings that reflect a unique blend of Andean and Catholic beliefs.
What is included
- Tourist transport for the entire tour
- Professional guide in English, Spanish or Portuguese
- Entrance fees to the archaeological sites (Tipón and Pikillacta) and the Andahuaylillas church
- Bottled water
Not included
- Lunch
- Other food and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips (optional)
Frequently asked questions
1. How long does the South Valley of Cusco Tour last?
The tour lasts about 5 and a half hours, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. approximately, which gives you plenty of time to explore each site at a relaxed pace.
2. Is the South Valley Tour suitable for seniors or children?
Yes, this tour is easy and suitable for travelers of all ages, including seniors and children. The paths are accessible and the walking distances are manageable. If you are looking for more of a challenge, we recommend hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
3. Are photos allowed inside the Church of Andahuaylillas?
Yes, photography is allowed, but flash is strictly prohibited to protect the artwork. Please be respectful when taking photos at every site.
4. Are there restrooms available during the South Valley Tour?
Yes, there are restrooms at each stop, although a small fee may apply at some of them.
5. Should I bring cash for the South Valley Tour?
Yes, we recommend bringing cash in Peruvian soles, as small expenses such as restrooms or souvenirs may not accept card payments.
6. Is lunch included in the South Valley Tour?
No, lunch is not included. However, there are local restaurants along the route where you can try traditional Cusco cuisine.
7. What kind of transportation is used on the tour?
The tour includes comfortable tourist transport with air conditioning and professional drivers who know the route well.
8. Will everything be explained throughout the South Valley Tour?
Yes, the tour includes a professional guide in English, Spanish or Portuguese who provides historical and cultural context at every stop.
9. Is altitude sickness a concern in the South Valley?
The altitude in the South Valley is relatively low compared to other Cusco destinations, such as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Even so, we recommend acclimatizing and staying hydrated to avoid minor symptoms.
10. What is the highest altitude reached during the South Valley Tour?
The maximum altitude is around 3,600 m (11,810 ft) above sea level, lower than other hikes in Cusco, which makes this tour more comfortable for most visitors. For a hike at lower altitude, Choquequirao is a great option.
11. Can I do the South Valley Tour if I arrive in Cusco the same day?
It is possible, but we recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least 24 hours before the tour for a more pleasant experience.
12. Is the South Valley Tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour runs year-round. However, the dry season (May to October) is ideal because of the clearer weather. These months are also the best for most destinations in the region, including Machu Picchu.
13. What should I wear for the South Valley Tour?
Dress in layers with comfortable clothing. The weather in the South Valley can change during the day, so bring a light jacket and sun protection.
14. Is the South Valley Tour wheelchair accessible?
Some areas may be accessible, but full accessibility is limited because of uneven terrain. Please contact us in advance so we can plan accordingly.
15. How far is the South Valley from Cusco city?
The South Valley sites are between 40 minutes and 1.5 hours from Cusco city, making it a convenient and scenic day trip. After the tour, you can visit other attractions such as Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain.
16. Can I combine the South Valley Tour with other tours in Cusco?
Yes, since it is a one-day tour, you can continue with other experiences, such as Choquequirao, Machu Picchu's sister city.
17. Do I need to buy entrance tickets separately for the South Valley sites?
No, the entrance fees to Tipón, Pikillacta and the Church of Andahuaylillas are included in the tour price.
18. Is the South Valley of Cusco Tour worth it?
Absolutely. It is one of the most underrated day tours in Cusco, with cultural insights that will enrich your whole trip, plus beautiful scenery, all in one day.
19. How does the South Valley Tour compare to Machu Picchu?
While Machu Picchu is world-famous, the South Valley of Cusco offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience. It is perfect for those who want to explore Peru's culture beyond the Inca citadel.
20. How should I prioritize the South Valley if I also want to visit Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu?
If time allows, do all three. Start with the South Valley to gain cultural context, then visit Rainbow Mountain for its natural beauty, and finish with Machu Picchu.
21. What is Tipón known for?
Tipón is an Inca site famous for its hydraulic engineering: canals, fountains and farming terraces that still carry water today.
22. Who built Pikillacta?
Pikillacta was built by the Wari culture, before the rise of the Inca Empire. It stands out for its planned layout of high walls, plazas and narrow streets.
23. Why is the Andahuaylillas church called the Sistine Chapel of the Americas?
Because of the richness of its interior: frescoes, gilded altars and colonial paintings that blend Andean and Catholic beliefs. Photos are allowed, but without flash.
Recommendations and what to bring
What to bring
- Comfortable clothing and a light jacket for changing weather
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- Your passport or ID
- Cash in soles for personal expenses and tips
Recommended footwear
- Comfortable shoes, ideally sneakers or light trekking shoes
Local remedies
- Coca tea: helps prevent altitude sickness and is a traditional choice in Cusco
- Muña candies: help relieve mild altitude symptoms and are easy to carry
Medication
- Acetazolamide for altitude sickness prevention, only if your doctor recommends it
- Pain relievers for mild headaches or general discomfort
Possible issues during the tour
- Altitude sickness: the altitude is relatively low, but it is still a good idea to acclimatize and drink coca tea.
- Dehydration: drink enough water, as the dry climate can cause rapid fluid loss.
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