South Valley – Half Day
Viceregal Art, Inca Engineering and Traditional Flavors of Cusco
Schedule: 08:00 – 16:00 hrs
Duration: 7 – 8 hours
Type of experience: Cultural – Historical – Gastronomic
Difficulty: Easy
General Information
The South Valley of Cusco is one of the least crowded and most authentic circuits in the region. Unlike the Sacred Valley, this route combines three major moments in Andean history:
- Pre-Inca culture (Wari)
- Inca hydraulic engineering
- Colonial religious art
Additionally, it integrates living gastronomic tradition in towns recognized for their artisanal bread and typical chicharrones.
It is an ideal tour for those who wish to explore cultural attractions in a more relaxed itinerary close to the city.
Technical Sheet
- Walking level: Easy
- Altitudes: 3,100 m to 3,500 m.a.s.l.
- Total duration: 7 – 8 hours
- Type of route: Paved road and short walks in archaeological complexes
- Average climate: Mild during the day, with moderate sun
Availability
Daily departures
Transport
Hotel pickup
Guide
It is included in the service
Available languages
English and Spanish
Type of service
Group Service
Cancellation policy
Non-refundable
Maximum altitude
3.560 m.a.s.l
Difficulty
Easy
Location
Cusco, Peru
Itinerary
Hotel Pickup: We begin pickup from hotels located in the historic center of Cusco.
During the journey south, the guide will explain:
- The territorial expansion toward Collasuyo.
- The development of pre-Inca cultures in the region.
- The agricultural importance of the surrounding valleys.
Andahuaylillas – The Sistine Chapel of America: We visit the colonial temple of the Church of San Pedro Apóstol of Andahuaylillas, known as the “Sistine Chapel of America.”
Built in the 17th century, its interior impresses with:
- Andean baroque murals.
- Altarpieces gilded in gold leaf.
- Paintings from the Cusco School.
- Ceilings decorated with floral motifs and religious symbolism.
The guide will explain the evangelization process and the religious syncretism that characterized this historical period.
Tipón – Inca Hydraulic Engineering: We continue to Tipón, one of the best-preserved hydraulic complexes in the Andean world.
Here you can observe:
- Perfectly leveled agricultural terraces.
- Water channels still flowing after centuries.
- Ceremonial fountains.
- Hydraulic distribution systems with millimetric precision.
It is explained how the Incas mastered water management as both a sacred and productive element.
Pikillacta – Pre-Inca City of the Wari Culture: We visit Pikillacta, an ancient planned city belonging to the Wari culture (600 – 1000 A.D.).
During the visit you will learn about:
- Rectangular structures organized into urban blocks.
- Straight streets with advanced planning.
- Defensive perimeter walls.
- Evidence of the Wari administrative system.
This site allows understanding of the urban antecedent prior to the Inca Empire.
Oropesa – National Capital of Bread: We make a brief stop in Oropesa.
This town is famous for the traditional pan chuta, baked in large artisanal clay ovens.
The guide will explain:
- The colonial origin of the bread.
- The artisanal production process.
- Its importance in local festivities.
Saylla – Gastronomic Tradition: We continue to Saylla, recognized for its traditional chicharrones.
Here you will have free time for lunch (not included) in local specialized restaurants.
It is a typical gastronomic experience of rural Cusco.
Return to Cusco: We finish the tour returning to the historic center of Cusco.
Important note: Times are for reference only. Our operations team will contact you the day before your visit to reconfirm the schedule..
Includes
What's included
- Tourist transportation
- Professional bilingual guide
- Permanent assistance during the tour
What is not included
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC)
- Entrance to the Church of Andahuaylillas (if current fee applies)
- Lunch in Saylla
- Personal expenses
- Tips
Recommendations
- Comfortable and light clothing
- Proper sneakers for short walks
- Sunscreen
- Personal water
- Cash for entrance fees and lunch
- Maintain caution in areas with vehicular traffic (Saylla)
Trade policies
- Price expressed in Peruvian soles (PEN).
- Reservation confirmed with a 20% deposit of the total service value.
- The remaining balance must be paid up to 5 days before the start of the tour.
- Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance: partial refund according to operating
- expenses assumed (transportation and guide).
- Cancellations less than 24 hours: 100% penalty.
- No show: 100% penalty.
- Service subject to availability and weather conditions.
- The order of visits may be modified for operational reasons without affecting the program content.
- Viajes Pachacutec acts as a responsible operator coordinating formal and authorized services.
Price
South Valley – Half Day
Half day
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