The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem

The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem is the perfect route for travelers looking to escape the crowds. This journey allows you to discover unique archaeological sites that combine Incan hydraulic engineering, pre-Incan urban planning, and the most impressive colonial art in the Andes. This The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem tour offers a peaceful yet profound cultural experience.

Iconic sites: Tipon · Pikillacta · Andahuaylillas (Sistine Chapel of the Americas).

ℹ️ General Information

• Schedule: 08:30 AM to 02:30 PM (approximately).

• Frequency: Every day.

• Languages: Bilingual guide (Spanish and English).

• Price: From $15.00 USD per person.

• Outbound Link: Learn more about Peru’s cultural heritage at UNESCO World Heritage.

⭐ Highlights of The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem

• Tipon: Marvel at the Incan water gardens and ceremonial fountains.

• Pikillacta: Explore the only Wari culture (pre-Incan) citadel in the region.

• Andahuaylillas: Visit the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” and its gold-leaf altars.

• Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the beauty of the Southern Cusco landscapes with fewer tourists.

🗺️ Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary for The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem is designed to maximize your cultural immersion:

• 🏨 08:30 AM – Pick-up: We begin our adventure by collecting you from your hotel in the historic center.

• 💧 Tipon Exploration: A guided walk through the impressive agricultural terraces and ancient water channels.

• 🧱 Pikillacta Visit: Discover the massive pre-Incan city known for its unique urban grid.

• 🎨 Andahuaylillas Church: Step inside the Church of San Pedro to witness the most beautiful colonial frescoes.

• 🚌 02:30 PM – Drop-off: The tour concludes in Cusco’s city center.

The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem Price:

Group Service: $13.00
Private Service:

✅ Includes

• Professional Guide: Accredited and expert in Andean history (English/Spanish).

• Tourist Transport: Modern and comfortable bus for the entire group.

• Personalized Attention: Support throughout the duration of the tour.

❌ Not Included

• Tourist Ticket (BTG): S/ 70 partial or S/ 130 general (Essential for Tipon and Pikillacta).

• Andahuaylillas Entrance: Separate payment of approx. $4.00 USD (S/ 15).

• Extras: Personal expenses, snacks, and money transfer fees.

 Important Note: Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico)

The entrance ticket for this tour is not included. You can purchase it directly at the first stop (Tipon) or at the official office in Cusco.

• Partial Ticket (approx. $20 / S/ 70): Valid for 1 day. This ticket covers only the South Valley circuit (Tipon and Pikillaqta).
• Full Ticket (approx. $40 / S/ 130): Valid for 10 days. This is the best value if you plan to visit other sites like the Sacred Valley, Pisac, or Saqsayhuaman.

Recommendation: If you are staying in Cusco for a few days to explore more ruins, we highly recommend getting the Full Ticket to save money on entrance fees.

🎒 What to Pack for The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem

• ☀️ Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses.

• 🧢 Sun Hat: Essential for walking through the open ruins of Pikillacta.

• 🦟 Insect Repellent: Recommended for the lush areas around Tipon’s fountains.

• 🌧️ Rain Poncho: Mandatory from November to March.

• 💵 Small Change: In Soles for the Andahuaylillas entrance and local snacks.

💡 Recommendations for a Better Experience

1. Local Flavors: Try the famous “Cuy” (guinea pig) in Tipon or the “Chicharrones” (pork) in Saylla.

2. Photography: Since The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem has fewer visitors, it’s the best time for panoramic photos.

3. Layer Up: Tipon can be sunny and warm, while Pikillacta can be windy and cool.

4. Acclimatization: This is a low-impact tour, making it ideal for your first or second day in Cusco.

❓ FAQ – The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem

1. Is this tour physically demanding? No, The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem is a low-difficulty tour. The walks are short and mostly on flat ground.

2. Why should I choose this tour over others? It offers a unique mix of three different eras (Wari, Inca, and Colonial) without the large crowds of the Sacred Valley.

3. Do you offer private services for The South Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Gem? Yes, private tours are available for those who want a more flexible pace and personalized attention.

ADDITIONAL GROUP TOURS IN CUSCO (bus and guide)

• City Tour $ 9.00
• Sacred Valley Tour $ 13.00
• Maras / Moray $ 13.00