South Valley Tour (Private)

The archaeological center of Tipon is located about 15 km from the city of Cusco and is known for its magnificent terraces, irrigation canals and hydraulic systems.

Tipon was an important ceremonial and agricultural center during the Inca period. The complex consists of stepped terraces that extend over a series of hills and are covered with irrigation canals and water ponds.

The city of Cusco is located at an altitude of approximately 3,400 meters above sea level. Cusco is known for being one of the highest cities in the world and its altitude can affect people who are not used to high altitudes. Therefore, it is important for visitors to take measures to prevent altitude sickness, such as getting enough rest, drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous physical activity when arriving in the city.

It is advisable to acclimatize before visiting Cusco due to the high altitude of the city. Cusco is located at an altitude of approximately 3,400 meters above sea level, which can cause soroche or altitude sickness in some people. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, dizziness and shortness of breath.

To avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended to take a day or two to acclimatize before engaging in intense physical activities, such as walking or hiking. During this time, it is advisable to rest, stay hydrated, avoid consuming alcohol and heavy food, and drink coca tea, which is a natural remedy to alleviate the symptoms of soroche.

The southern valley of Cusco is known for its many important archaeological sites dating back to pre-Columbian and Inca times. Some of the archaeological sites are:

• Tipon: an Inca archaeological site known for its agricultural terraces and hydraulic systems.
• Pikillacta: a pre-Inca archaeological site known for its ancient adobe structures and for being one of the largest pre-Hispanic settlements in the region.
• Raqchi: an Inca archaeological site known for its impressive temple of Wiracocha, one of the largest and best preserved buildings of the Inca period.
• Andahuaylillas: an archaeological site that houses a 17th century colonial church, known as the “Sistine Chapel of America” for its impressive frescoes and baroque decorations.
• Piquillacta: a pre-Inca archaeological site known for its adobe structures and for being one of the oldest pre-Hispanic settlements in the region.

The archaeological center of Pikillacta is located in the southern valley of Cusco. It is believed to have been built by the Wari culture around 550 AD, and was later occupied by the Incas.

The Pikillacta complex is known for its impressive stone structures, including walls, streets and buildings, which are arranged in a grid pattern typical of Wari architecture.

The complex is divided into two parts: the citadel and the residential neighborhood. The citadel is the larger part and is surrounded by defensive walls, which suggest that the city was built for military purposes. The citadel also has a number of important buildings, including a temple and a central plaza.

The residential quarter is located in the eastern part of the complex and features a number of small structures that were probably dwellings and workshops. There is also a well-defined street system connecting the neighborhood structures.

The climate in Cusco is cool and dry for much of the year, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. However, due to the altitude, Cusco has a wide temperature variation between day and night, with nighttime temperatures that can drop below 5 degrees Celsius.

The climate in Cusco is divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season extends from May to October and is considered the best time to visit Cusco due to its sunny and dry climate. The rainy season extends from November to April and is more humid and rainy, especially during the months of January and February.

The archaeological center of Andahuaylillas is famous for its impressive colonial church, known as the “Sistine Chapel of America”.

The church of Andahuaylillas was built in the 17th century. Its simple and modest facade hides an interior richly decorated with baroque mural paintings and sculptures. The church is an outstanding example of the fusion between Spanish and Andean culture, and its architectural and decorative style is a unique blend of both.

The best time to visit Cusco’s South Valley is during the dry season, which runs from May to October, due to favorable weather conditions, the lower probability of rainfall and safer roads for exploring archaeological sites and natural landscapes. However, during the high season months (June to August) the South Valley can be more visited and prices can be higher.