Tour Description
The South Valley Private Tour from Cusco is a half-day private experience designed for travelers who want to explore important Inca and colonial sites without crowds or rushed schedules. Instead of following the classic tourist routes, this tour focuses on Cusco’s southern region, offering deeper historical context and a more relaxed pace with a private local guide.
During this private journey, you visit Tipón, an impressive Inca hydraulic complex famous for its advanced water engineering; Pikillaqta, a vast pre-Inca city built by the Wari civilization; and Andahuaylillas, home to the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas,” one of the most important colonial churches in Peru.
Thanks to private transportation, flexible departure times, and a licensed local guide, this South Valley Private Tour delivers a smooth, informative, and comfortable half-day experience. It is ideal for travelers interested in history, architecture, and authentic Andean culture, all within a short and well-organized itinerary from Cusco.
Why Choose Inkaland Explorers for the South Valley Tour from Cusco?
At Inkaland Explorers, we go beyond the typical tourist routes to help you discover the true cultural depth of Cusco’s South Valley. From the start, our local expertise and private service allow you to explore this historic region in a relaxed, well-organized, and meaningful way.
Clear Historical Context
Our licensed local guides lead you through Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas, explaining their historical, architectural, and cultural importance. You don’t just visit the sites—you truly understand them.
Smooth Private Transportation
Thanks to private transportation and flexible pacing, you enjoy each stop without rushing, large crowds, or unnecessary shopping stops.
Personalized Private Experiences
We focus on adapting the tour to your interests, schedule, and travel style. As a Cusco-based local operator, we prioritize authenticity, safety, and quality.
Trusted Reputation
Our reputation supports our promise. Travelers consistently highlight our professionalism, knowledgeable guides, and attention to detail in verified TripAdvisor reviews.
Weather: South Valley Private Tour
NOV - APR
The rainy season brings occasional light showers, mostly in the afternoons. A light waterproof jacket or poncho is recommended.
MAY - OCT
The dry season offers clear skies and minimal rainfall, creating ideal circumstances for visiting the sites without interruptions.
Altitude
Up to ~3,500m (11,480ft) at Tipón. The climate is generally mild compared to higher-altitude tours around Cusco.
Temperature
12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). Early mornings and late afternoons can feel cooler.
Gear & Conditions
Wear layered clothing. Sun exposure can be strong year-round; sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are suggested.
Advantages: South Valley Private Tour
Exclusive Archaeological & Cultural Combination
Visit Tipón (Inca hydraulic engineering), Pikillaqta (Wari urban center), and Andahuaylillas (Sistine Chapel of the Americas) connecting history in one coherent journey.
Strategic Timing to Avoid Crowds
With our morning departure, you reach Andahuaylillas before peak visiting hours, ensuring a quieter, more immersive experience inside the church.
Efficient Half-Day Itinerary
In approximately 6.5 hours, you experience a complete cultural route with logically planned stops—without rushed visits or unnecessary detours.
Local Gastronomy & Cultural Stops
Pass through traditional villages such as Oropesa and Saylla, known for local bread and regional dishes, adding a culinary dimension to your experience.
Considerations: South Valley Private Tour
Entrance Fees Not Included
You must purchase the Partial Tourist Ticket (70 soles) and the Andahuaylillas Church entrance (15 soles). Please bring cash in soles.
Altitude Awareness
We strongly recommend spending 1–2 days acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand and staying well hydrated throughout the tour.
Flexible Private Schedule
This is a private tour, so we adjust the pace and breaks according to your interests without rushing.
Punctual Morning Departure
An 8:00 AM pickup allows you to visit Pikillaqta and Andahuaylillas before peak visitor hours. Late departures may reduce time inside key sites.
Meals Not Included
We recommend bringing water and light snacks. We can suggest local restaurants after the tour if you wish to enjoy regional cuisine.
Appropriate Footwear Required
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes. Tipón and Pikillaqta include uneven surfaces and stone steps.
Detailed Itinerary
08:00 AM
Morning
Morning
Mid-Morning
Late Morning
Early Afternoon
03:00 PM
Included
- Private Tourist Transportation
- First-Aid Kit
- Oxygen Tank
- Professional Tour Guide (English or Spanish)
Not included
- Partial Tourist Ticket (South Valley)
- Lunch
- Gratuities
What to bring
- Sun hat
- Sun protection cream
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
- Water
Expert Tips
- Bring cash in Soles for the Partial Tourist Ticket (70 soles) and the church entry (15 soles); cards are not accepted.
- Spend 1–2 days acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand; although elevations are moderate, Tipón reaches 3,500m.
- UV radiation is strong year-round; apply sunscreen and wear a hat even on cloudy days.
- Comfortable shoes are required for Tipón’s terraces and Pikillaqta’s stone pathways which include uneven surfaces.
- Punctual departure at 8:00 AM is recommended to maximize your time inside the richly decorated church of Andahuaylillas.
- Stay hydrated: The Andean air is dry and altitude can be felt even on mild routes like the South Valley.
