Tackle an adventure through Cusco’s beautiful South Valley! With guided tours of historical sites and plenty of photo ops, this journey is one you won’t forget. Explore the beauty of the South Valley in Cusco, Peru!

Overview

South Valley Tour Cusco Overview

Explore Cusco’s South Valley’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage with Kondor Path Tours. Visit the picturesque town of Tipon, known for its impressive Inca terraces and irrigation system, and the pre-Inca ruins of Pikillacta. Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and architecture of the Andahuaylillas church, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.”

Is this trip right for me?

AT A GLANCE

• Start of the excursion of the Cusco Southern Valley Tour: 9:00 a.m.
• Meeting places to start the outing: anywhere in Cusco or directly from the Cusco airport.
• Duration of the guided tour: approximately a little over half a day.

Note: The guided visits to the tourist circuit of the Cusco South Valley Tour can be carried out at any time that the client requires, either in the morning or the afternoon, “the archaeological sites of the southern valley of Cusco open at 8 am and close at 5 pm”

Activities to explore on the Cusco South Valley Tour

1. Rumi Punku: Great stone gate to enter Cusco from the south of the Inca empire
2. Andahuaylillas:  Exquisite Sistine Chapel of America, where we can see several frescoes painted on its internal walls
3. Pikillaqta: Majestic pre-Inca metropolis citadel with surprising constructions of houses, streets, and Inca roads of the Wari culture.
4. Tipon: Visit the temple of spring water with its various channels, primary and secondary sources, and the unevenness of the Inca water channels to regulate the water’s speed and irrigate the entire architectural complex of Tipon.

Lunch: “Not included,” The one dish to try in Cusco is Guinea Pig (a popular Peruvian delicacy) in Tipon village. Or lunch could be in the town of Lucre, “fresh trout from the lagoons of the Andes,” or in the city of Saylla, “Chicharrón [fried pork] flavorful, tender, and crispy: Cusco’s Chicharrón.”

Highlights of South Valley Tour Cusco

• Explore the south of Cusco on an epic tour, exploring fantastic ancient Inca constructions and the beautiful landscapes of the Andes with their inter-Andean valleys.
• There are short walks between 5 and 19 minutes for light exercise through the Andes of southern Peru with incredible panoramic views.

Itinerary

South Valley Tour Cusco Itinerary

Half-Day

Visit & Explore the Cusco South Valley

Cusco Southern Valley Tour: The excursion to the South Valley of Cusco begins at 9 a.m. We start with pick-up service at the respective hotels of the visitors. We head towards the southwest of Cusco via Saylla until we reach the different Inca archaeological groups, such as Tipon, Pikillaqta, Rumicolca, and the Sistine Chapel of America.

Each Inca archaeological group takes short walks of between 8 and 18 minutes until we reach the main Inca temples, such as the Tipon fountain and the streets, patios, and houses of Pikillaqta.

At the end of the tourist circuit of the Cusco South Valley Tour, we return to the city of Cusco. There is the option that if the clients would like to try the baked guinea pig in the town of Tipon, it “does not include” that the culinary adventure is tastier locally in the south of Cusco.

A brief description of the ruins of Cusco South Valley Tour

Discover the fascinating ancestral ruins of southern Cusco on a nearly half-day tour, exploring incredible Inca constructions with impressive Andean landscapes.

TIPON RUINS PERU

The spectacular archaeological group of Tipon, located south of Cusco, contains several imperial-style Inca buildings, deposits, and terrace systems. Explore strategic spring water extraction sites’ impressive canals and Inca water sources. The tourist area of Tipon has magnificent photographic angles between the ruins of Tipon and the landscapes of the Andes. The best engineers at the time of the Incas built the architecture and functionality of Tipon with a unique ritual cutting and hydraulic irrigation system.

PIKILLAQTA RUINS IN CUSCO, PERU

The Wari culture developed in the southwest of Peru in the Apurimac region; Pikillaqta’s most significant architectural expression was the Pre-Inca metropolis citadel south of Cusco. Join us for the Cusco South Valley Tour to discover the little-known treasures.

• Pikillaqta must house approximately fifteen thousand people in its golden years.
• The ancestral city of Wari in Pikillaqta shows around 700 pre-Inca buildings.
• The pre-Inca architecture has a harmonious geometric design that combines the scenic landscape of the Andes with the ancient citadels of the Wari culture. Straight, intertwining streets lead to several gigantic courtyards.
• Pikillaqta shows the buildings between 1, 2, and 3 floors in their ancient architecture. There are also semi-subterranean constructions with white plaster walls.

RUMI PUNKU RUINS

The ruins of Rumi Punku have a pyramidal shape with imperial Inca fine masonry. At the top of the Rumi Punku archaeological complex is a channel that carries water to the Inca citadel of Pikillaqta.

ANDAHUAYLILLAS SISTINE CHAPEL OF AMERICA

The most extraordinary Sistine Chapel in America became famous for its incredible works of art that continue inside. The exquisite paintings by the Cuzco School of Art 400 years ago included various pictures with Andean touches.

In the Sistine Chapel of America in Andahuaylillas, the fresco paintings on the walls, the ceiling, the semicircular arch, and the choir balcony are the most striking.

Food

None

Physical Level

1, Easy

Walking Distance

A light walks

Hiking Time

5 to 25 minutes

Starting Altitude

Tipon 3,316m (10,879 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Andahuaylillas: 3,122m (10,242 ft)

Highest Altitude

Pikillacta: 3,125m (10,252 ft)

Inclusions

South Valley Tour Cusco Inclusion 

• Active itinerary with unique cultural features.
• Excellent English-speaking tour guide.
• Private tourist transport.
• Transfer service to the entire tourist excursion
• All local taxes

Cusco South Valley Tour Does Not Include

• Cusco Hotel or Airbnb
• CUSCO TOURIST TICKET BTG This ticket allows entrance to many sites in and around Cusco and costs 130 Peruvian soles (approximately US$45).
  • PARTIAL TICKETS. S/70 is about $25 in US dollars.
• Entry to the Andahuaylillas Church costs S/15 Peruvian currency, or $5.
• Guinea Pig Grill Dish, S/60 Soles, or approximately US$20.00
• Items of a personal nature
• Tipping is an entirely personal gesture

Cusco Southern Valley Tour, Andahuaylillas, Tipon Bring:

1. Tennis shoes or any other comfortable footwear with ankle support are recommended for the excursion south of Cusco because there are short walks along the Inca trails.
2. From mid-January to mid-April, when it rains, bring rain gear. For the dry season, get a rainponcho because there might be a brief downpour.
3. Windbreaker.
4. Wear long-sleeved or adventure shirts to protect yourself from the sun; solar radiation is intense in the Andes.
5. A hat is essential and even better with seaweed components.
6. To avoid feeling the Andes’ solar radiation, use sunscreen with an SPF of 55 or higher.
7. Let’s keep our planet green by using bottled or purified water in our reusable water bottles. “.
   Use a camera or cell phone for photo shoots and live video transmission to capture beautiful memories of the Cusco region’s south.
8. Cash in Peruvian currency to buy souvenirs, etc.

Travel Guide

The South Valley of Cusco circuit can be combined with other archaeological groups of the Sacred Valley, Cusco, etc., to the satisfaction of explorers for a better visit to the Andes. Please write to us so we can send you a new itinerary.

What is the South Valley Tour of Cusco?

The South Valley Tour of Cusco is a guided tour that takes visitors to the Tipon, Pikillacta, Rumicolca, and Andahuaylillas archaeological sites in Peru, which are known for their unique and impressive circular terraces.

How far is the South Valley Tour from Cusco?

Pikillacta is located about 50 km (31 miles) southwest of Cusco and can be reached by car or bus in approximately 1 hour.

Can I visit the South Valley Tour of Cusco on my own?

Yes, visitors can explore the South Valley ruins of Cusco on their own, but taking a guided tour is recommended to learn about the history and significance of the site.

Is there an entrance fee for the South Valley Tour of Cusco?

There is an entrance fee to visit the Moray site, which is paid on-site.

Are guided tours available at the South Valley Tour of Cusco?

Yes, guided tours of the Moray site are available on-site, and it’s recommended that you take one to learn about the site’s history and significance.

How long does a visit to the South Valley Tour of Cusco last?

A visit to the Tipon, Pikillacta, Rumicolca, and Andahuaylillas sites usually lasts around 2 hours, depending on how much time is spent exploring the area.

Is there any hiking involved in visiting the South Valley Tour of Cusco?

A short walk downhill from the parking area to the Tipon and Piquillacta sites is not a strenuous hike most visitors can do.

What should I wear on a South Valley tour of Cusco?

It’s best to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as a short walk will involve bringing a hat, sunscreen, and water. It is also a good idea to bring sunscreen, as the Sacred Valley can get hot and sunny.

Can I buy souvenirs at the South Valley Ruins of Cusco?

Several small shops and stalls are selling souvenirs at the Moray site.

Is transportation included in a Cusco South Valley Tour?

Depending on the tour provider, transportation may be included in a Tipon, Rumicolca, Pikillacta, or Rumicolca tour.

Can I bring my children to the Cusco South Valley Tour?

Yes, children are welcome at the Pikillacta, Andahuaylillas, Tipon, and Rumicolc sites, but they must be supervised because of the steep drops and uneven terrain.

Is the Cusco South Valley Tour wheelchair accessible?

The Tipon and Pikillacta sites are not wheelchair accessible, as there are stairs and uneven terrain.

Is a visit to the Cusco South Valley Site worth it?

Visiting the Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas sites is worth seeing the unique and impressive Inca terraces and learning about the Incas’ agricultural experiments.

Pricing & Book Now

Cusco South Valley Tour COST

Season 2025

Number of persons	Price per person
1	$ 140.00 USD	BOOK NOW
2	$ 88.00 USD	BOOK NOW
3	$ 64.00 USD	BOOK NOW
4	$ 49.00 USD	BOOK NOW
5	$ 42.00 USD	BOOK NOW
6	$ 36.00 USD	BOOK NOW
7	$ 32.00 USD	BOOK NOW
8	$ 29.00 USD	BOOK NOW
9	$ 26.00 USD	BOOK NOW
10	$ 24.00 USD	BOOK NOW

Our services are private so that all our travelers have a personalized experience and enjoy magnificent excursions, thus staying longer in a place of interest or shortening the trip. We are at your disposal on your next vacation in Peru.

Experience the Cusco South Valley Tour exploring Tipon, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas; the travel route has a combination of three architectural styles:

1. Tipon “Inca construction”
2. Pikillaqta, “Pre-Inca construction.”
3. Andahuaylillas chapel.

On the tour of the southern valley of Cusco, we visit two Inca ruins:

• Inca hydrology in Tipon: Incredible water management Inca version
• Visit the majestic ruins of Pikillaqta. Amazing remains of Pre-Inca architecture
• At the end of the guided tour, enjoy the wonderful colonial church of Andahuaylillas, known as the “Sistine Chapel,” due to its extensive ornamental decoration and colonial fresco paintings.

Inquire

INQUIRE ABOUT THE CUSCO SOUTHERN VALLEY TOUR

Cusco South Valley Tour: We strongly affirm that Peru is one of the countries through which we have been able to travel more easily. Enjoy your trip south of Cusco, exploring incredible Inca ruins.

Contact form Tour

Lead Passenger Name

Phone/Whatsapp

Email

Nationality:

Tour Date:

Number of Travelers:

Additional Details:

I have read and agree to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy

Submit Form

Cusco Southern Valley Tour Gallery

Cusco South Valley Tour Video

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 clavergne 
 
2024-06-20
 
 
  
We used Kondor Path for 5 different tours.
My husband, 21 year old daughter and I used Kondor Path for several tours. First of all, every tour you book with them is private. Loved that! They went at our pace for every tour. If we wanted to skip something, add something, go slower or faster, they accommodated us. We did the alternate Ollyantaytambo tour, Super Sacred Valley tour, 1/2 day Cusco tour, Machu Picchu guide and a two day tour from Puno to Arequipa with a stop at the Colca Canyon. Our guides were Wilfredo, Odon and Andres and our drivers were Anibal and Raul. All 5 of these men were excellent. The drivers did such a good job and Anibal was excellent at helping me at some of the stops that involved climbing (I am a giant klutz!) All three of our guides were knowledgeable and taught us so much about the locations, Incas, and pre-Incas. I had a bit of an oxygen issue when we passed 16,000 feet and Andres was so good about helping me back to the car and Raul got us down in altitude quickly and safely. Our daughter had a massive nose bleed at MP and Odon helped her to get it stopped. If you find yourself in Peru, do yourself a favor and use Kondor Path!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Tanja B 
 
2024-05-13
 
 
  
Lares 1 day hike was amazing
I did the 1 day Lares Trek private tour with Kondor Path Tours and liked it a lot. They picked me up from my hostel and hours later we arrived at Lares Town to have some breakfast from locals which was really delicious. Later during the hike we met even more locals which gives you a feeling of how they are living. My guide explained everything so well and it was so interesting. As requested I got really good Vegetarian food. Thanks to my guide Alfredo Santacruz and the driver I felt comfortable during the whole trip. Thank you for this amazing experience!!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Kyrsten B 
 
2024-05-04
 
 
  
Great Short Inca Trail Experience
Just finished the short Inca Trail hike with Kondor Path tours. An excellent experience from beginning to end. Responded quickly, everything well organized, our guide Bonette was fabulous. Set the perfect pace for our family, knowledgeable, considerate. The trail itself is amazing- entering Machu Picchu through the sun gate at the end. Spectacular scenery.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Allyx T 
 
2024-04-27
 
 
  
Amazing trip thanks to Fredi!
Our tour was fantastic. We did the 2 day Salkantay trek, spent the first day hiking the Salkantay trail and got to take a horse part of the way. The lunch was great and everything was thought through ahead of time by our guide, Fredi. Fredi was truly the highlight of our trip! An amazing guide and so fun to spend time with- we learned a ton from him, felt safe, and had a blast. I would definitely book with Kondor Tours again for a chance to spend time with Fredi on another adventure. Some of the most beautiful views I’ve ever seen- truly and unforgettable adventure
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Lucas B 
 
2024-04-24
 
 
  
Excelente private tours
We did a two day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu with the salt mines and it was all perfect. Our guide Alfredo was extremely helpful and I couldn’t rate him any higher. Perfect English, knew all the shortcuts, helped us with everything we need.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 ksdl2005 
 
2024-02-17
 
 
  
Must do tour
We did the trip to Machu Picchu with them and the horse ride up to rainbow mountain… we never do tours because we don’t like to spend money unnecessarily… this was so worth it it’s a private tour and the logistics of the train the ride there the bus the entrance and all the times to just fit in is hard to schedule also the time of departure to go back … it was so worth it.. the guides are amazing and you learn way more about their culture and they speak great English.. you learn so much on just the rides… also they bring oxygen and the roads are pretty rough so unlike the trouble of scheduling and getting up so early and the rough roads and altitude sickness you just lay down and sleep on the trip instead of a bunch of people on a bus jsut the ride alone is worth it … this is a no brainer to do ….and once again I never spend money on excursions or tours they also are first to book the tours so you get the much sought after circuit 2
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Ani T 
 
2023-12-21
 
 
  
Wonderul site, great tour operator and excellent guide
We had an evening flight so wanted to do something during the first half of the day, really glad we picked this half-day tour of the Sillustani ruins. The tour agent (Kondor Path Tours) was very flexible about our pickup time and dropoff options, so that really helped. We were able to arrange a later pickup in the morning that included all our luggage and then they dropped us off at the Juliaca airport after the tour. But the Sillustani towers themselves are a real treat to see and learn about all their history. The site itself is very serene and beautiful, with the lake in the background from the main viewpoint. Our tour guide (Richy/Ricardo) was excellent and very helpful and knowledgeable. He gave us not only the ancient history of Sillustani and the adjoining areas, but also a more contemporary history of Peru and the Puno region I have to add that he went over and above by even helping us to check our bags in at JUL airport!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 ladyshalyn 
 
2023-10-22
 
 
  
Maras and Moray + Pachamanca
Easily the best tour experience I had during my trip to Peru. I highly recommend Kondor Tours as the customer service is top-notch. James responded to my queries almost instantly each time and was very helpful. We were even treated to a can of cusquenia beer each when we visited the office! Our guide Alfredo was absolutely amazing and we were fortunate to have him as our guide for the tour. He is very passionate about his job and shared so much valuable information with us. He has a very candid character and we were very comfortable throughout! I highly recommend requesting for him as your guide (the best we had while touring Peru for 3 weeks). Also, I would say opting in for and additional traditional peruvian pachamanca meal experience must not be missed. The community people were very warm and gracious hosts and it is eye opening to witness the preparation of such a traditional feast normally done only for special occasions like weddings. We even had time for dancing! Two thumbs up for sure!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Niels K 
 
2023-08-10
 
 
  
3-day Choquequirao Trek
We took a three-day private group trek to Choquequirao as a family of five. Kondor Path Tours organized a pick-up and drop-off in Urubamba instead of Cusco and did an extra stop at the Saywhite archeological site. Everything went very smoothly during the entire trip, meals and accommodation were as expected or better. The trek itself is quite demanding (particularly in three days), but the nature/ views/ Choquequirao/ dearth of tourists largely compensate. Anyway, we were looking for a physical challenge! Our guide Oron was great. Explaining, motivating, solving potential problems/ demands. We would definitely recommend Kondor Path Tours.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Anja 
 
2023-08-05
 
 
  
Proffecional company and perfect guide
Kondor Path Tours are so proffecional and easy to work with. We went with them on the 2 days short Inca trail to Machu Picchu with our three children. The correspondence was great and everything was perfectly planned in every detail. Our guide Alfredo was so friendly, knowledgeable and pleasant to be around! Thank you Kondor Path Tours - we couldn’t have asked for more!!