Full Itinerary of the Half Day Cusco South Valley

From living water to ancient cities and timeless art: Tipon – Piquillacta – Andahuaylillas

Pick up & drive into the South Valley

We start with a pickup in Cusco and head south into the open countryside. The city slowly fades into farmland, hills, and small communities. This is one of the reasons people love the South Valley: it doesn’t take hours to reach the first stop, so you spend more time exploring and less time sitting in the vehicle.

Along the way, your guide sets the scene with simple, helpful context—so the places you visit feel connected, not like a checklist.

Tipon: terraces and living water channels

Tipon is one of the best places near Cusco to see Inca water engineering up close. You’ll walk through green terraces and stone channels where water still runs today. It’s peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly precise, everything feels carefully built to guide water exactly where it needs to go.

This stop is also fantastic for photos: mountain views, terraces, and the sound of flowing water instead of city noise.

Walking is easy, but the paths can be uneven, so comfortable shoes make a difference.

Piquillacta: a pre‑Inca Wari settlement

Next, the landscape and history shift. Piquillacta is linked to the Wari (Huari), one of the major cultures in the Andes before the Incas. Unlike the organic style of many Inca sites, Piquillacta feels planned and geometric, like a designed settlement with long walls and a clear layout.

Your guide will point out what to look for and why it matters, so it’s more than “old walls.” This stop adds depth to your Cusco trip because it shows that the Andes had powerful civilizations long before the Inca Empire.

Andahuaylillas: San Pedro church and its artwork

Andahuaylillas is a small town with a big surprise. From the outside, the church looks simple, but inside, it’s full of color, paintings, and details that catch your eye in every corner. Many travelers call it the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” because of the murals and rich decoration.

Your guide helps you understand what you’re seeing and why it’s so important, so your visit feels meaningful, not rushed or confusing. If you enjoy art, history, or photography, this stop is often the highlight of the day.

Return to Cusco

After Andahuaylillas, we head back to Cusco. Depending on timing and your service type, there may be a short practical stop along the way (a restroom break, quick shop, or a local bakery). Then we drop you off at your hotel or a central point in the city.

It’s a smooth, easy half‑day that fits perfectly into a short Cusco itinerary, especially if you want something cultural without exhausting yourself.

Price of South Valley Peru tour

We run this tour as a small group to keep it relaxed and well‑paced. Want more flexibility? A private South Valley tour is a great option if you’re traveling with family or friends, want more photo time, or prefer a slower schedule.

Price per Person

• From US$XXX - Adults. Shared small‑group service.

 Price varies by day, group size, and what’s included (request a quote)

• From 4+ Travelers, contact us to get a special price: info@trexperienceperu.com

Private service: Available on request (best for couples, families, and photographers)

Optional Upgrades

• Private tour upgrade: Your group only, flexible pace
• Entrances included option: Add tickets in advance (when available) for a smoother day
• Special guide requests: English‑only guide / specialized guiding (subject to availability)
• Pickup outside central Cusco: Available depending on location and logistics

Booking & Payment

• To reserve, send: travel date, group size, hotel name/address, and preferred departure (morning or afternoon)
• We confirm: pickup time, meeting details, and the exact entrance ticket plan (Boleto Turístico + church ticket)
• Payment: We’ll share the available payment options during confirmation (online payment is typically available)

Student Discount

Student discounts may be available depending on the service type and current promotions. If you’re a student traveler, ask during booking and be ready to provide a valid student ID if required.

What place to visit in my South Valley of Cusco tour

Tipon Archaeological Park

Tipon is your close-to-Cusco window into Inca hydraulic genius: green terraces, carved stone channels, and fountains still flowing today inside a great archaeological park. There, your guide points out the Inca clever water flow. Easy walk, however wear comfy shoes for uneven paths. Entry is via the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC).

Pikillacta town

Pikillacta takes you back to the Wari (AD 500-900): a planned pre-Inca city of straight streets and walls up to 7 m high near Huacarpay Lagoon. Your guide helps you read the town layout, not just appreciate “old walls.” Mostly flat, little shade, bring a hat and water. Included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC).

Church of Andahuaylillas

San Pedro church in Andahuaylillas looks modest outside, then bursts with murals belonging of "Escuela Cusqueña" (Cusco School) Native art style, gold details, and Andean Baroque beauty, often called the “Sistine Chapel of America.” Your guide shares the mural iconografics so it feels meaningful. Open daily; entrance uses a separate church ticket. Photo rules can vary, ask first.

Cusco South Valley Packing List

Cusco mornings can feel chilly, while the sun gets strong fast, especially at this altitude. Dress in layers and bring the essentials in a small daypack.

What to bring for the South Valley of Cusco

Original passport

Plastic Rain Coat

Peruvian soles cash

Good-quality daypack

Water bottle

Lip balm

Sunscreen

Hand sanitizer

Sport pants

Walking shoes

Moisture-wicking shirts

Fleece

Waterproof and windproof jacket

Sun hat or cap with neck cover

Sunglasses

Camera + extra batteries

Snacks

Personal Medication

Please Avoid Bringing (Prohibited / Not Practical)

• Large bags or suitcases (not needed for a half‑day tour)
• Valuable items you don’t want to carry all day
• Anything that could be considered disrespectful inside a church (very revealing clothing, loud music, etc.)
• Drones (not practical and often restricted)

Cusco South Valley Travel Info

1) Tickets & Entrances: What You Need

Tipon and Piquillacta require the Boleto Turístico (Cusco Tourist Ticket), either partial or full, depending on your plans in Cusco. Andahuaylillas usually has a separate church entrance ticket. If you’re not sure which ticket makes sense, ask us before the tour and we’ll help you choose the simplest option.

2) Morning vs Afternoon Departures

Morning tours often have cooler air and softer light for photos. Afternoon tours can be a great fit if you arrive in Cusco later or want a slower morning. Either way, the pace stays easy and the route feels smooth.

3) Andes Weather Changes Fast

Even on a sunny day, you can feel cool shade, strong sun, and wind within minutes. Layers are the secret: a light jacket you can take on and off is more useful than one heavy coat.

4) Altitude: Easy Tour, High Elevation

This tour is easy, no hiking, but it’s still at high altitude. The best plan is simple: drink water, move at a steady pace, and take breaks when you need them. If this is your first day in Cusco, it’s one of the gentlest ways to explore while acclimatizing.

5) Facilities, Cash, and Connectivity

Restrooms on the route can be basic, and card payments aren’t always available in small towns. Bring small bills in Soles for tickets and quick stops. Phone signal can drop in parts of the valley, so keep key info saved offline and carry a power bank.

6) Visiting Andahuaylillas Respectfully

Andahuaylillas is a living church, not just a museum. Dress modestly, keep voices low, and follow any photography rules inside (sometimes there are limits). A respectful visit makes the experience better for everyone.

Frequently Ask Questions of South Valley Cusco tour