Cusco South Valley Tour – Explore the Cultural Wealth in One Day
Our one-day South Valley tour is perfect for those who want to discover the strengths that await on another side of Cusco.
From
US$ 20.00
per person
South Valley of Cusco – Half Day
- Duration: 6 hours approx.
- Start: Cusco
- Guide language: Spanish, English and Portuguese
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Maximum altitude: 3,500 m.a.s.l.
Description
A unique cultural experience
The South Valley of Cusco tour is a unique cultural experience that takes you through ancient routes of the Collasuyo, one of the regions of the Inca Empire. With serene landscapes, mountains, lagoons, and traditional villages, this route connects you with a past full of history, impressive architecture, and spirituality.
During the tour you will learn about the hydraulic ceremonial center of Tipón, the pre-Inca city of Pikillaqta, built by the Wari, and the church of Andahuaylillas, jewel of colonial art. All this in the midst of a unique Andean landscape, ideal for lovers of history, photography, and living culture.
Highlighted sites of the tour
Places we will visit
- Tipón: Known for its Inca hydraulic system, considered a marvel of engineering. It has agricultural terraces, water channels, and royal precincts.
- Pikillaqta: Ancient settlement of the Wari culture, with narrow streets and structures of adobe, stone, and mud. From here you can see the Huacarpay lagoon.
- Andahuaylillas: Small colonial town that houses the famous church of San Pedro, decorated with murals, baroque altarpieces, and paintings of the Cusco school.
Why choose this experience?
Reasons to choose us
- Ideal for those looking to discover places outside the traditional tourist circuit.
- Connects Inca, pre-Inca, and colonial culture in a single tour.
- Perfect for travelers interested in archaeology, history, and art.
- Suitable for the whole family and without the need for great physical demands.
Detailed Itinerary
Itinerary
- Pick-up at your accommodation – Cusco
Our transportation will pick you up directly from your hotel to begin the route towards the southern Sacred Valley.
- Visit to Tipón
We explore this Inca ceremonial center known for its advanced hydraulic system and agricultural terraces.
- Visit to Pikillaqta
We will learn about this pre-Inca city built by the Wari culture, notable for its straight streets and adobe structures.
- Visit to Andahuaylillas
We admire the church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, famous for its interior decorated with murals, altarpieces, and colonial art.
- Return to Cusco
We conclude the tour returning comfortably to the city, ending at your accommodation or agreed point.
Not Included
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, or other meals not specified in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees to attractions:
- Qoricancha Entrance Ticket: S/ 20 per person.
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC):
- General: S/ 130 (valid for 10 days for multiple sites).
- Partial Circuit I (Saqsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay): S/ 70 (valid for 1 day).
- Partial Circuit II (Tipón, Pikillaqta): S/ 70 (valid for 2 days).
- Entrance to Andahuaylillas: S/ 15 (approx.)
- Tips for guide and driver (optional).
- Personal expenses.
*Entrance fees are for reference and may vary. It is recommended to purchase the appropriate Tourist Ticket or individual entries according to the sites visited.
What's Included / Not Included
Services Included in the Experience
- Transfer from the historic center of Cusco: Pick-up from your hotel or designated meeting point in the historic center. Due to the narrow streets of the city, on some occasions, the guide will coordinate a nearby and accessible point for group pick-up, ensuring punctuality and comfort.
- Tourist Transportation: You will have a modern, comfortable, and safe tourist transportation service throughout the tour. Our vehicles meet safety standards and are equipped to provide you with a pleasant travel experience between the different points of interest.
- Professional Guide: You will be accompanied by a professional, bilingual tour guide (Spanish and English) with extensive experience. The guide will provide detailed and enriching information about the history, culture, and points of interest visited, ensuring a deep understanding of the experience.
- Return to Plaza Regocijo (Historic center of Cusco): At the end of the tour, transportation will drop you off at the central Plaza Regocijo, located a few steps from the Plaza de Armas, facilitating your return to your accommodation or the continuation of your activities in the heart of Cusco.
Services Not Included
- Meals or drinks: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, or drinks during the tour are not included, unless explicitly specified in the detailed itinerary description. It is recommended to bring water and personal snacks.
- Entrance to the Sistine Chapel of Cusco (Church of San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas): The entrance fee to this important religious and artistic attraction is not covered by the tour. It must be purchased by the passenger on site.
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC): This ticket is necessary to enter various archaeological sites and museums in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. It is not included in the tour price. The cost is 70 soles for foreign tourists (partial) and 40 soles for national tourists (partial), subject to change by authorities. You must purchase it separately.
- Other services not mentioned: Any other service, personal expense, tips for the guide or driver, purchases, or activities not clearly specified in the "SERVICES INCLUDED" section are not covered.
What to Bring on the Tour
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Dietary restrictions (veg/vegan)
If you follow a special diet, please let us know. This way we can ensure suitable options are available for you during the tour.
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Warm clothing
Temperatures vary greatly at altitude. Bring several layers to adapt to daytime and nighttime conditions.
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Sunglasses
UV radiation is stronger at altitude. Good sunglasses protect your eyes and make the trip more comfortable.
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Sunscreen
Mountain sun is strong, even on cloudy days. Wearing sunscreen prevents burns and protects your skin throughout the tour.
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Wool hat
Cold can be intense, especially mornings and evenings. A wool hat helps retain body heat.
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Wool gloves
Hands get cold quickly at altitude. Wool gloves provide the warmth needed for a comfortable trip.
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Appropriate footwear
Terrain can be uneven and rocky. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction to avoid slips and improve stability.
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Snack
Physical effort at altitude requires extra energy. Carrying a snack helps you stay active and avoid fatigue during the tour.
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Water
Staying hydrated is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Bring a reusable bottle to refill along the way.
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Personal documents
Some entrances require ID. Carry your ID or passport for access and for registration in case of emergency.
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Small backpack
A compact backpack lets you carry essentials comfortably. Ideal for water, snacks and personal items without excess weight.
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Cash (Peruvian Soles)
Some places don’t accept cards. Carrying Soles makes it easier to buy souvenirs, snacks or additional services.
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Camera
Landscapes are spectacular and worth capturing. A camera lets you take amazing memories and share your experience.
Tour Description
Explore the charming South Valley of Cusco, a tour that combines history, architecture, and unforgettable Andean landscapes. Visit important archaeological sites such as Tipón, known for its Inca hydraulic system; Pikillaqta, an ancient pre-Inca city of the Wari culture; and the majestic church of Andahuaylillas, known as the “Sistine Chapel of America.” A perfect experience for those looking to discover another side of Andean heritage amid peaceful and authentic landscapes.
Things you should know about this tour
Our one-day South Valley
Our one-day South Valley tour is perfect for those who want to discover the strengths that await on another side of Cusco.
Booking Form
Fill in the details to book your experience
- TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS
- Comfortable Clothing: Light layered clothing. The weather in Cusco and the Sacred Valley is variable during the day but can cool down. Bring a light jacket or sweater.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes. Trekking boots are not required, but shoes with non-slip soles are recommended for irregular surfaces at archaeological sites and Pisac terraces.
- Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV protection sunglasses, hat or cap. Solar radiation is intense in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
- Cash: Bring soles to purchase the Tourist Ticket (approx. S/70 partial, S/130 complete), entrance to Cusco Cathedral (approx. S/25), entrance to Qoricancha (S/15), voluntary tips, lunch, and purchases at Pisac market.
- Hydration: Water bottle. Staying hydrated is important during the full day tour at altitude.
- Backpack or Bag: Small or medium backpack to carry water, camera, documents, snacks, market purchases, and personal items.
- Camera or Phone: Essential to capture the Cathedral, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, panoramic views of Cusco, Pisac terraces, and the Sacred Valley. Bring extra battery or powerbank.
- Medications: If you are sensitive to altitude, bring altitude sickness pills (Sorojchi pills). Also personal medications.
- Weather: Temperate temperatures (10-20°C) in Cusco and Sacred Valley. Can be sunny with wind at high altitudes. Bring layered clothing.
- Documents: ID or original Passport (mandatory to access archaeological sites with Tourist Ticket) and cash in soles.
- Acclimatization: It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 1 day before the tour to adapt to the altitude. Drinking coca tea and avoiding excessive efforts helps with acclimatization.
- Tourist Ticket: Can be purchased at the first site or previously at authorized offices. Required to enter Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and Pisac archaeological center.
- Schedule: The tour starts at 8:00 AM and lasts all day. Take advantage of the morning for natural light photography in Cusco and the afternoon in Pisac.
- Time at each site: Listen carefully to the guide to make the most of the history and culture of each place. Respect the established times at each stop.
- Lunch: Not included. There are restaurant options in Pisac (budget approx. S/20-40). You can consult with the guide for recommendations.
- Pisac Market: Ideal for buying handicrafts, textiles, ceramics, and local products. Bring extra cash and be prepared to bargain politely.
- Heritage Respect: Do not touch or climb on archaeological walls. They are cultural heritage that must be preserved for future generations.
- Photography: Allowed at all sites. Ideal for colonial and Inca architecture photography, Sacred Valley landscapes, and panoramic views from Pisac.
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Is previous experience or good physical condition necessary? No, it is not necessary. The City Tour Cusco + Pisac has an easy to moderate difficulty level, with short and moderate walks at each archaeological site. It is accessible for all types of travelers, including seniors and families with children. It is only recommended to be acclimatized to the altitude of Cusco (3,400 m.a.s.l.).
- What does this tour include? It includes tourist transportation to/from your hotel in Cusco, certified multilingual professional guide (Spanish and English), buffet lunch in Pisac with traditional Andean food, pick-up and transfer to all sites on the tour, and permanent assistance during the tour. It does not include the Tourist Ticket or entrance to the Cathedral.
- What services are NOT included? The Cusco Tourist Ticket (required to enter Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and Pisac - approx. S/130 complete or S/70 partial), entrance to Cusco Cathedral (approx. S/25-40), entrance to Qoricancha (approx. S/20), drinks and snacks, voluntary tips for guide and driver, insurance, or additional personal expenses are not included.
- How long does the tour last and what is the maximum altitude? The tour lasts 1 full day, approximately from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (approx. 9 hours). The maximum altitude is 3,800 m.a.s.l. at archaeological sites in Cusco such as Sacsayhuamán and Pisac. Departure time is at 8:00 a.m.
- How many days do I need to be in Cusco before the tour? It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 1 day before to acclimatize to the city's altitude (3,400 m.a.s.l.). Taking things easy on the first day, staying well hydrated, and drinking coca tea helps with adaptation. This is important to fully enjoy the full-day tour.
- What places will we visit during the tour? You will visit 8 emblematic sites: Cusco Cathedral (colonial art), Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), Sacsayhuamán (ceremonial fortress with giant blocks), Qenqo (ceremonial center carved in rock), Puka Pukara (military fortress), Tambomachay (Inca baths), Pisac archaeological center (terraces, temples, and tombs with views of the Sacred Valley), and Pisac artisan market. It is a complete experience that combines Inca and colonial history with living Andean culture.
- IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BOOKING
- Total duration: 1 full day (approximately 9 hours).
- Departure: 8:00 a.m. with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
- Maximum altitude: 3,800 m.a.s.l. (Sacsayhuamán and archaeological sites of Cusco and Pisac).
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Documentation: ID or original Passport is mandatory.
- Acclimatization: Recommended to be in Cusco at least 1 day to adapt to the altitude before the tour.
- Guide language: Spanish / English subject to availability.
- Service type: Group with comfortable and safe tourist transportation.
- Entrance fees: Complete or partial Tourist Ticket required to enter archaeological sites (not included). Cusco Cathedral entrance (not included).
- Restrictions: Tour accessible for most travelers. Some sites have stairs, terraces, and irregular surfaces.
- Weather: Temperate climate in Cusco and Sacred Valley (10-20°C). Can be cool at high altitudes. Bring light layered clothing.
- Clothing: Comfortable clothes, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Lunch: Includes buffet lunch in Pisac with traditional Andean food.
- Experience: Ideal for those looking to learn about Inca and colonial history of Cusco plus the Sacred Valley of Pisac in one day.
- End: Return to your hotel in Cusco approximately at 5:30 p.m.
Our one-day South Valley tour is perfect for those who want to discover the strengths that await on another side of Cusco.
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Tour rates and options
This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.
"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".
Schedule office appointment
Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco
1 WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPERIENCE?
- ● Breathtaking panoramic view of the Sacred Valley
- ● No prior experience required
- ● Safe activity: favorable topography and certified equipment
- ● An exciting and different experience
- ● Perfect for adventure, nature and unforgettable memories in Cusco
- ● Horseback or trekking options
- ● Daily departures all year round
- ● Oxygen support and first-aid kit
2 WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
- ● We are tour operators in Cusco
- ● Professional and responsible work
- ● 100% tourist vehicles
- ● Safety for our visitors
- ● Your trip will be the best experience
- ● 100% responsible
- ● Care for the environment
- ● Commitment to service quality
Tour Gallery
Tipón: The Cathedral of Inca Hydraulics
Inca terraces designed with millimeter precision to optimize agriculture. Its system of canals and fountains is a testament to the Inca mastery of water engineering.
Andahuaylillas: The Sistine Chapel of America
Baroque façade of the colonial church, renowned for its rich interior ornamentation, mural frescoes, and gold-leaf altars. A highlight of Andean religious art.
Pikillacta: Wari Culture Urbanism
Stone and mud walls and streets defining this extensive pre-Inca citadel. It reflects the sophisticated urban planning of the Wari civilization, predating the Incas.
Historical Fusion: Inca and Colonial Legacy
Finely carved Inca stone walls serving as foundations for a colonial building. This architectural superposition narrates the post-conquest history of Cusco.
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What our travelers say
Verified reviews from real travelers. Our reputation is backed by thousands of authentic experiences.
Excellent guide and unforgettable experience
Cristian Flores was an exceptional guide who shared extensive knowledge about the mountain and local culture. His professionalism and friendliness made the experience truly unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour for future visitors and will definitely book his services again on my next trip to Cusco.
Rainbow Mountain ATV Adventure
Everything was perfectly organized from the schedule to transportation. Our guide Jimy was excellent throughout the day. I highly recommend this amazing ATV experience - it was both thrilling and safe. The landscapes are simply breathtaking and worth every minute of the journey.
Spectacular tour with knowledgeable guide
The Rainbow Mountain tour was spectacular. José José, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable about the area and explained everything about the geology and local culture. The team was attentive at all times and transportation was comfortable. Thanks also to my group members who made the experience even more enjoyable.
Dreamlike nature worth every step
An unforgettable experience where the effort is totally worth it. The ascent can be challenging but our guide motivated and helped us at all times. The views are simply stunning and photos don't do it justice. I recommend bringing warm clothes and good shoes.
Unforgettable Quad adventure
The excursion to Vinikunka Mountain was spectacular. Excellent assistance and detailed explanations from guide José José and his assistant Wilfredo. The quads were in perfect condition and safety instructions were clear. We enjoyed every moment from sunrise to return.
SPECTACULAR - Exceeded expectations
Thanks to the quads I was able to enjoy the tour without problems. The guide was very attentive and knowledgeable about the area. What I appreciated most was the punctuality and organization of the tour. They provided all facilities and the team was attentive at all times.
Wonderful experience with the best guide
Guide Jose José proved to be a great person and exceptional professional. From the first moment he cared about our well-being and made us feel safe throughout the tour. His knowledge about local culture and geology greatly enriched the experience.
Beautiful experience with excellent service
Great experience from start to finish. Guide Jose Jose was very friendly and professional, explaining every detail of the tour. What I valued most was his patience when some of us needed to go slower due to altitude. The agency team was attentive at all times.
THE BEST EXPERIENCE on our Peru trip
The entire team was friendly and professional from start to finish. Hotel pickup was punctual, transportation comfortable and safe. Our guide demonstrated extensive knowledge and passion for his work. I highly recommend this company for their seriousness and organization.
Exceptional service
Excellent attention from booking to the end of the tour. The guide was very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommended for everyone visiting Cusco.
Amazing experience
One of the best tourist experiences I have had. Everything was perfectly organized and the team was very attentive at every moment.
Highly recommended
The tour exceeded our expectations. Friendly and professional guides. We would return without hesitation. Transportation was comfortable and punctual.
Excellent organization
From the first contact to the end everything was perfect. The guide showed great knowledge and passion for his work. Very satisfied with the service.
Wonderful adventure
An unforgettable experience. The landscape is spectacular and the service is first class. Thank you for making our trip something special.
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Cusco South Valley Tour – Explore the Cultural Wealth in One Day
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