THE JOURNEY
Beyond the Sacred Valley, southern Cusco hides pre-Inca temples, colonial churches and villages steeped in history. Half a day of archaeology, Andean scenery and tradition, well off the beaten path.
just for you
THE ROUTE
09:00 am | Pick-up from your hotel in CuscoOur Machu Picchu Glory team will pick you up from your accommodation to board our comfortable tourist transport. We will begin the journey south of the city, venturing into a landscape of Andean valleys and traditional villages.
10:00 am | Visit to Andahuaylillas – The Sistine Chapel of AmericaOur first stop will be the picturesque village of Andahuaylillas, famous for housing the Church of San Pedro Apóstol, known worldwide as the "Sistine Chapel of America." This 17th-century colonial temple surprises with its simple façade, which contrasts with an interior profusely decorated with impressive frescoes, baroque altarpieces bathed in gold leaf, and artworks from the Cusco School. In addition to the church, we will stroll through its charming Main Square, adorned with imposing coral trees ("pisonay") and palm trees, and have the opportunity to appreciate the daily life of this Andean village.
11:15 am | Exploration of Tipón – Inca Hydraulic EngineeringWe will continue our journey east of the city to visit the impressive archaeological complex of Tipón. Considered one of the most outstanding monuments of Inca hydraulic architecture, Tipón is a testament to the advanced engineering knowledge of our ancestors. Its enormous, perfectly aligned agricultural terraces are irrigated by a system of canals and water fountains that still, centuries later, continue to flow from natural springs. We will walk through its ceremonial and agricultural terraces, marveling at the precision of its construction and the beauty of the surroundings.
12:30 pm | Visit to Pikillacta – The Pre-Inca Wari CityWe will conclude our archaeological tour at the enigmatic Pikillacta Archaeological Complex, located in the province of Quispicanchis, about 32 km east of Cusco. This extensive site, covering more than 3,400 hectares, is one of the most important settlements of the Wari (or Huari) culture, a civilization that dominated the central Andes before the rise of the Incas. Unlike Inca constructions, Pikillacta is characterized by its stone and mud walls, straight streets, and quadrangular enclosures organized with surprising urban precision. Along the way, we will enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Huacarpay Lagoon, a wetland of great beauty and biodiversity.
02:00 pm | Return to the City of CuscoAfter our exploration, we will board the transport to begin the return journey. During the trip, you can relax and once again enjoy the Andean landscapes.
03:30 pm (approx.) | Arrival in CuscoWe will arrive in the city of Cusco, dropping you off at the Plaza de Armas or a central point near your accommodation. Thus concludes an enriching tour of the Southern Valley.
THE DETAILS
Before You Go
MOMENTS ALONG THE WAY
TRAVELER STORIES
“Every detail felt considered before we even asked — the private train car, the guide who knew we loved photography and timed our arrival for the light. This is how Machu Picchu should be seen.”
“No crowds, no rush — just the two of us and nine hundred years of stone in the morning mist. Worth every mile.”
