South Valley Tour in Cusco

Itinerary

We pick you up from the hotel between 8:00A & 8:30A, to head south from the city of Cusco. (45min drive)

We´ll pass through towns that boast some of the regions traditional and varied gastronomy of Cusco, such as the popular baked guinea pig and Cusqueño-style pork rinds. We will visit the Laguna de Huacarpay, and the surrounding wetlands which are inhabited by hundreds of migratory and endemic birds, as well as species of fish that serve as food for the inhabitants of the area.  Finally we will reach the town of Andahuaylillas (45 km away from Cusco) which includes the church with the same name.

The Church of Andahuaylillas (17th century), known as the Sistine of America, was ordered to be built by the Jesuits and Father Juan Perez de Boca Negra. It has been very specially cared for and decorated on the bases of an Inca shrine. It represents Andean baroque art in all its splendor, large murals at the entrance, oil paintings from the Cusco School, and the carving and embossing of the altar with gold sheets.

From here, we head north towards the archaeological center of Pikillaqta (10-minute drive), a pre Inca site of urban planning in the 15th century. This well preserved but rustic site boasts strategically placed and aligned streets, corridors, houses and temples.

Finally, we´ll visit the impressive site of Tipon.  We travel north for 20 minutes and then ascend east until we reach 3700 meters above sea level (11000 feet). Tipon is an example of the great knowledge that the Incas had in hydraulics and construction of agricultural terraces. You will be humbled as you walk beneath and along the giant and functioning water channels.

At the end of our tour, and on the way back to the city of Cusco, you may try  the typical Andean dishes offered by the towns on the way.(please coordinate with your guide in advance)

Return to Cusco and your hotel.

Included

• Professional tour guided
• Bus transportation
• South Valley + entrance fee

No Included

• Meals where not otherwise stated
• Tips

What you need to take

• Walking boots.
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho (depends on weather conditions).
• Wind breaker (depends on weather conditions).
• Sun hat, sun block, sun glasses.
• Water and snacks.
• Camera with extra batteries