South Valley Cusco Tour: Tipon Pikillaqta Andahuaylillas

Explore Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas - A Journey Through History and Culture

Discover the Inca Water Worship at Tipon

Tipon and Pikillaqta awaits us after breakfast at your hotel, our Machupicchu Latin America guide will pick you up from your hotel lobby between 7:45 to 8:00 am.

We’ll head out from Cusco, driving about 50 minutes to reach the stunning Inca city of Tipon, an elaborate system of terraces and water channels.

This archaeological wonder is thought to have been one of the most important ceremonial centers dedicated to worshipping water.

The site’s advanced hydraulic engineering is a testament to the Inca’s mastery of water management and their reverence for this life-giving element.

A Taste of Tradition in Tipon

Then the town of Tipon is not only known for its archaeological beauty but also for its famous dish—guinea pig.

This delicacy is a local favorite, and on weekends, Cusqueñans flock to Tipon to enjoy guinea pig on a stick or roasted in a traditional clay oven.

Oropesa - The Bread Capital of Peru

On our way to Pikillacta, we will make a short stop in Oropesa, a town famed for its delicious bread, known as Chuta.

With more than 40 bakeries, Oropesa is considered the bread capital of Peru. The town’s economy thrives on the production of these large, fragrant loaves that are a staple in local markets.

Pikillacta - Unravel the Mystery of the Pre-Inca Wari Civilization

On one that our next destination is the only pre-Inca site in Cusco — Pikillacta, a remarkable adobe complex built by the Wari culture.

The Wari civilization, which dominated Peru’s central highlands and coastal regions, is credited with pioneering many of the agricultural terrace techniques later perfected by the Incas.

Visiting Pikillacta offers a rare glimpse into a pre-Inca world, where advanced administrative systems and architectural marvels laid the groundwork for the mighty Inca Empire.

Andahuaylillas - The Sistine Chapel of the Americas

Our final stop is the picturesque town of Andahuaylillas, where one of the most stunning churches in the Americas is found.

Known as the Sistine Chapel of the Americas, this baroque masterpiece is famed for its intricate artwork and frescoes, which were created by the Cusco Religious Art School (Escuela Cuzqueña).

Upon entering, visitors are mesmerized by the vibrant paintings, ornate altars, and centuries-old murals that depict stories of faith, history, and artistic brilliance.

A Culinary Delight in Saylla

Before returning to Cusco, we will stop at Saylla, a charming town where you’ll have the opportunity to try Chicharrones, a traditional Peruvian dish of fried pork. It’s the perfect way to end the tour, experiencing both the cultural and culinary richness of the region.

Important Notes:

• Note 1: If you are departing from Cusco the same day, we can start the tour earlier to ensure you reach Cusco airport by 12:00 pm.
• Note 2: For an additional cost, we can arrange transportation to Urubamba or Ollantaytambo town instead of returning to Cusco.

Why Choose This Tour?

This half-day adventure offers a unique combination of Inca, pre-Inca, and colonial sites, showcasing the cultural diversity and historical depth of the Cusco region. From the engineering brilliance of Tipon to the artistic splendor of Andahuaylillas, this tour is a must for anyone looking to delve deep into Peruvian history while also savoring local traditions and flavors.

Day 1: Tipon, Pikillacta, and Andahuaylillas Half-Day Tour

• Overview: Begin the journey at Tipon, an important Inca water worship site, and explore its intricate terraces and channels. Continue to the fascinating Pikillacta, a pre-Inca Wari site, and finish the day at Andahuaylillas Church, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”
• Duration: Half-day (7:45 AM to 1:00 PM).
• Why it matters: A journey through Incan and pre-Incan history, followed by a visit to a significant colonial-era church.

Itinerary Breakdown:

• Morning: Tipon
  • Key highlight: The impressive water channels used for ceremonial purposes by the Incas. Also, sample the local delicacy of “guinea pig on a stick” and taste the large traditional bread, “Chuta.”
• Mid-Morning: Pikillacta
  • Key highlight: Explore this pre-Incan Wari adobe complex, where ancient agricultural and administrative practices still intrigue archaeologists.
• Late Morning: Andahuaylillas
  • Key highlight: Visit the stunning baroque church of Andahuaylillas, adorned with paintings from the Cusco Religious School, and admire its intricate architecture.
• Return to Cusco
  • Expected return by 1:00 PM, leaving time for further exploration or an afternoon at leisure.

Why it’s significant: This itinerary combines stunning natural scenery, Incan and pre-Incan ruins, and religious artwork, offering a perfect snapshot of Peru’s historical and cultural depth.

Includes / Does not Include

Includes:

• Hotel pick up and drop off.
• Transport.
• English speaking guide.
• 1 Bottle of Water.
• Small group tour.

Does not Include:

• Admission ticket (85 Peruvian sol cash).
• Gratuity (optional).
• Additional expenses.
• Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

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