Experience the best of the Sacred Valley Half Day Tour and discover stunning landscapes, ancient archaeological sites, and vibrant local culture.
Sacred Valley half day tour
The South Valley of Cusco is often overlooked by travellers. It is home to Tipon Cusco, Piquillacta Ruins and Andahuaylillas Church. If you are inquisitive to get an in depth insight to Inca and pre Inca civilization then this half day tour in combination with the Sacred Valley half day Tour is the best option.
This half day tour starts with a visit to Tipon. It is a small town on the outskirts of Cusco city. Tipon is home to an archaeological site that nestles on a hilltop overlooking the valley. We will then drive you to see Pikillacta Ruins.
Pikillacta is home to a well preserved Pre Inca site from Wari Culture. Here we will be giving you a guided tour. The South Valley Cusco tour culminates with a visit to the Sistine Chapel of America, Andahuaylillas Church.
Tipon:
Tipon is home to a 239 hectares Inca ruin built in the 15th century. It was primarily used for agricultural purposes. The water channels which were built during the Inca civilization are in use even today.
The Incas used natural spring waters for farming.
Although the ruins are not as massive as the ones in the Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu, the stonework here is worth visiting.
Tipon is also a popular destination among locals, especially on weekends. They drive to Tipon to savour their favourite delicacy, Guinea Pig meat.
Pikillacta:
Piquillacta Ruins are the only pre Inca ruins in the region. It was built during the Wari civilization. Just as Incas, Waris too practised farming.
On a recent excavation, the archaeologists found images of maize carved next to their deities. This implies that Maize was an important crop to the Waris.
Andahuaylillas Church:
Andahuaylillas village is home to the sistine chapel of America. This was built in the 16th century by Jesuits on the remains of a pre columbian royal house. Locals call it San Pedro de Andahuaylillas.
We operate this tour in small groups. If you are looking for a private tour, simply reach out to us for a customized itinerary.
Itinerary from Puerta del Sol on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley half day tour Intinerary
We will be picking you up from your hotel in Cusco at 0900 AM. Then we will embark on a 30 minutes drive to Tipon. Here we will be visiting the archeological sites. After a detailed tour of the complex, we will be driving you to Pikillacta.
Our adventure begins at the Church of San Pedro in Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of America.” This stunning church is famous for its intricate religious murals, baroque style paintings, and gold-adorned altars, showcasing the artistic legacy of the Cusco School.
Next, we visit Pikillacta, an impressive Wari archaeological site featuring over a thousand ancient structures, including temples, colcas (storage buildings), and multi story residences. The site’s advanced urban planning highlights the ingenuity of the Wari civilization, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
After the tour, we will be driving you back to Cusco city.
What's included in our full day tour
Departure & Return Location
Cusco Hotel Transfer
Departure Time
9:00 a.m.
Price Includes
- Bilingual Local Tour guide (English & Spanish)
- Round trip transport
Price Excludes
- Entrance to Tipon and Pikillacta (Boleto Turistico)
- Entrance to Andahuaylillas Church
- Food
- Any Private Expenses
What you need to bring for the tour
- Packing list for the Sacred Valley half day tour
Our prices for the sacred valley tour
Small Group Tour (Personalized Experience) :
2 -3 People – 75US$ Per person
4+ People – 70US$ Per person
Children/students 65US$ Per person
Exclusive Private Tour:
2 -3 People – 110US$ Per person
4+ People – 100US$ Per person
Children/students 90US$ Per person
FAQs about the Sacred Valley half day tour
Embark on the Cusco Sacred Valley half day tour and explore the breathtaking landscapes and remarkable archaeological sites just beyond Cusco. This journey offers a unique glimpse into the fusion of Andean traditions and Spanish colonial influences, revealing the region’s rich history and culture.
The South Valley Tour is a lesser-known yet fascinating route that explores a mix of pre-Inca ruins, Inca architecture, colonial landmarks, and stunning Andean landscapes. Unlike the Sacred Valley, this tour takes you to hidden gems where you can enjoy incredible sites without large crowds, making it a more intimate and immersive experience.
The South Valley Tour Cusco includes:
- Andahuaylillas Church – Known as the “Sistine Chapel of America,” featuring exquisite baroque art, murals, and colonial paintings.
- Pikillacta – An impressive pre-Inca Wari archaeological site with over 1,000 structures, showcasing advanced urban planning and engineering.
- Tipón – A remarkable Inca site with terraces, water channels, and fountains, demonstrating the empire’s mastery of hydraulic engineering.
- This tour is perfect for history lovers, culture enthusiasts, and travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.
The South Valley Tour typically lasts 5 to 6 hours, making it an ideal half-day trip from Cusco. Most tours depart in the morning and return early in the afternoon, allowing you to explore more of Cusco later in the day.
Yes! The South Valley Tour Cusco is accessible to all ages and does not require intense hiking. The sites involve light walking, making it ideal for families, seniors, and travelers who prefer a more relaxed experience while still enjoying historical and cultural wonders.
The best time to visit the South Valley Cusco is during the dry season (April to October) when the weather is clear, and the landscapes are vibrant and lush. The rainy season (November to March) can bring occasional showers, but the sites remain accessible year-round.
While the Sacred Valley is more famous for its Inca ruins like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, the Cusco South Valley Tour offers a mix of pre-Inca, Inca, and colonial sites in a less crowded setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a different side of Cusco’s history and culture without the tourist rush.
For the South Valley Tour, we recommend bringing:
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring ruins and cobbled streets.
- A light jacket and sun protection (Cusco’s weather can change quickly).
- Water and snacks, though some tours offer refreshments.
- A camera or phone to capture the stunning architecture and landscapes.
Yes, to enter Tipón and Pikillacta, you need the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico), which covers multiple archaeological sites. The Andahuaylillas Church requires a separate entrance fee. Machu Picchu Tours can assist in arranging your tickets in advance for a hassle-free experience.
Absolutely! The South Valley Cusco is a half-day tour, so you can easily combine it with:
- A visit to San Pedro Market or Sacsayhuamán in the afternoon.
- A cooking class to learn traditional Peruvian cuisine.
- An evening in Cusco’s historic center, enjoying local food and music.
If you’re short on time, we can help customize your itinerary for a full day of exploration!
At Machu Picchu Tours, we provide expert local guides, comfortable transportation, and a carefully curated experience that goes beyond just sightseeing. Our tours are designed to immerse you in the history, culture, and beauty of the South Valley, ensuring an unforgettable journey.
