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Ever wondered why Cusco is called the archaeological capital of Peru? Join Salkantay Trekkers Peru on the South Valley Tour Half Day and find out! This tour takes you through a valley rich in history and natural beauty, making it a perfect way to spend your morning.
The Cusco Valley is the oldest inhabited city in South America. Over 15 kilometers long, this valley was once home to a massive lake called Lake Morkill during the last ice age. Fossils found here tell the story of giant animals like Andean horses, giant sloths, mammoths, and Paleolamas that roamed this area.
People first lived in the Cusco Valley around 8,000 to 10,000 BC. They started as hunters and gatherers but soon became settlers, creating early cultures like Killque, Chanapata, Qotaqalli, and Marcavalles. Between 200 to 500 AD, the Tiahuanaco people moved in, and by 800 AD, the Wari Empire took over, building impressive cities and roads. One of their amazing sites, Pikillaqta, is still visible today. Around 1200 AD, the Incas began to form, eventually building the largest empire in South America and creating incredible structures like the Tipon irrigation system.
min 2 Persons
Easy
Cusco
Classic Tour
Daily
Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM every day
Type: Half-day tour
Highlights:
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco around 9:00 AM. Get ready for a half-day filled with history and beautiful views!
First stop is Tipon, an Inca site famous for its irrigation system. You’ll see how water flows through vertical and horizontal channels on the terraces, showcasing the Incas’ amazing engineering skills.
Next, we visit Pikillacta, a Wari archaeological site. Walk through quadrant streets and see two-story buildings with stuccoed walls and paved floors, giving you a glimpse into the past.
After Pikillacta, we head to Andahuaylillas. This small town is home to the “Sistine Chapel of America”, a beautiful colonial chapel with incredible baroque paintings on the ceiling and walls.
End your tour with a delicious meal, sampling some of the local Cusqueño cuisine before heading back to your hotel.
It’s a half-day tour in Cusco that takes you through the South Valley, exploring ancient sites like Tipon, Pikillacta, and the beautiful Andahuaylillas chapel. Perfect for history buffs and nature lovers!
The South Valley is packed with historical sites and stunning landscapes. It’s a great way to learn about the Inca and Wari civilizations while enjoying the natural beauty of Cusco.
Yes! The tour is suitable for most people. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a half-day of walking and exploring.
The tour runs every day. The dry season (April to November) is the best time to visit, but the rainy season can also be beautiful if you’re prepared with a poncho and good shoes.
It’s a half-day tour from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore without taking up your whole day.
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