The South Valley is the route that leaves Cusco towards Puno, and almost every traveller drives through it without stopping. That is a mistake: in about forty kilometres it brings together three sites from three different eras, at Cusco’s altitude or lower, with no demanding walks and very few people. This guide explains what to see at Tipón, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas, which tickets you need and how to fit it into your trip.
Tipón: the water of the Incas
Tipón is about 25 kilometres from Cusco. It was a royal Inca estate, and what makes it unique is the water: channels, fountains and cascades carved in stone more than five hundred years ago, still working. The stepped terraces receive water from a spring and distribute it with a precision engineers still study. The visit takes about an hour, with short walks between the terraces.
The village of Tipón is also famous for its roast guinea pig, if you want to try it. We cover it in where to eat in Cusco.
Pikillacta: a city older than the Incas
Ten minutes further on is Pikillacta, a city of the Wari culture, some four centuries older than the Incas. It is a walk of about 45 minutes along straight streets and adobe walls up to twelve metres high, arranged in almost identical compounds. It helps you understand that the Incas did not start from scratch: they inherited roads, techniques and a way of organising the land.
Next to Pikillacta is Rumicolca, the great Inca stone gateway that controlled the entrance to the Cusco valley from the south. It is a brief stop, but an impressive one.
Andahuaylillas: the Sistine Chapel of the Americas
The route ends in the village of Andahuaylillas, at the church of San Pedro Apóstol. From outside it is a simple village church; inside it is covered in murals, gold-leaf altarpieces and a 17th-century coffered ceiling. That is why it is known as the Sistine Chapel of the Americas. The visit takes about half an hour. Photos are not allowed inside and respectful clothing is expected.
Tickets
| Site | Ticket |
|---|---|
| Tipón | Cusco Tourist Ticket, full or partial Circuit II |
| Pikillacta | Cusco Tourist Ticket, full or partial Circuit II |
| Andahuaylillas church | Its own Andean Baroque Route ticket, about 15 soles |
If you will also do the City Tour or the Sacred Valley, the full Tourist Ticket covers everything. We explain which one to buy in the Tourist Ticket guide. Bring cash in soles.
How it fits into your trip
The South Valley is the easiest tour in the region on the body: it lasts about six hours, it is flat and it never goes higher than Cusco. That makes it work very well at three points:
- On your first or second day, while you acclimatise.
- Between two mountain trips, as an active rest day.
- If you have already done the City Tour and the Sacred Valley and want something off the usual circuit.
Our private South Valley tour leaves at eight and returns to Cusco around two, in time for lunch in the city. It can also be done in the afternoon. If you are drawn to the spiritual side of the area, the Mystic Tour visits other corners south of Cusco, around Huasao. And if you are heading to Puno, the Route of the Sun stops at Andahuaylillas on the way to Lake Titicaca.
Further south, in the province of Acomayo, is Waqrapukara, the horned fortress above the Apurímac canyon: a full day with a hike, for anyone after archaeology with almost no visitors.
Frequently asked questions
Is the South Valley worth it?
Yes, especially if you are interested in history. Tipón is one of the finest examples of Inca hydraulic engineering and the Andahuaylillas church one of the richest in the Andes. And there are hardly any groups.
Can it be combined with the City Tour on the same day?
Yes. The South Valley in the morning and the City Tour in the afternoon is a common combination when time is short.
Is it suitable for children and older travellers?
Yes. The walks are short and flat and the altitude is Cusco’s or lower.
Is Andahuaylillas included in the Tourist Ticket?
No. The church has its own ticket, about 15 soles, paid at the door.
How long does the tour take?
About six hours from Cusco, with pickup at your hotel.
Keep planning
- Private South Valley: Tipón, Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas.
- All South Valley tours.
- Things to do in Cusco, the guide to all the essentials.
