What Visit on Cusco South Valley Tour

Cusco South Valley Tour: Unmissable Sites

What Visit on Cusco South Valley Tour. Looking for something different near Cusco? Beyond the well-known Sacred Valley, the South Valley offers a less crowded but equally fascinating tour. Expect Inca and pre-Inca sites, colonial architecture, and beautiful Andean landscapes. This guide points out the key sites to visit on a Cusco South Valley tour.

Getting to the South Valley

The South Valley tour starts easily from Cusco, located at 11,152 feet (3,399 meters). Tours typically depart from Cusco city center. You can join an organized tour or hire a private taxi for a more personalized experience. The drive to the South Valley sites is scenic and part of the adventure.

What to Wear

Dress for varied weather when touring the South Valley. Layering is your best bet as sun, wind, and shade can change how you feel. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring archaeological sites. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen to protect from the Andean sun, and maybe a light jacket for cooler parts of the day.

Best Time to Visit

Many people often consider the dry season (May to September) ideal for the South Valley tour, like in other areas around Cusco. You’ll likely have sunny days and less chance of rain, great for outdoor exploring. However, the South Valley is accessible year-round. Even in the rainy season, the landscapes are green, and the sites are still impressive to visit.

South Valley Tour Highlights.

Generally includes these key sites:

• Tipón: Known as a water temple or royal garden. See impressive Inca water engineering with canals and terraces.
• Pikillaqta: A pre-Inca site, from the Wari culture. Explore the well-organized city ruins and learn about pre-Inca history.
• Andahuaylillas Church: Often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.” Discover its richly decorated interior with murals and gold leaf.

What to Bring on the Tour

• Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico) or Partial Ticket: Check if your tour includes entrance fees. For some South Valley sites, you might need a partial tourist ticket or individual site tickets. Having tickets ready saves time at entrances.
• Comfortable Daypack: To carry essentials during the day. A small backpack is perfect for water, snacks, and personal items, keeping your hands free for exploring.
• Water: Staying hydrated at altitude is crucial. Bring water, especially as you’ll be walking and exploring outdoors.
• Snacks: While tours often include lunch, snacks help keep your energy up in between site visits.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are important. The Andean sun is strong, even on cloudy days.
• Cash (Peruvian Soles): Useful for buying souvenirs, extra drinks, or for tips. Smaller denominations are handy for quick purchases.

Common Tour Considerations

There are fewer strict rules for South Valley sites compared to places like Machu Picchu. General guidelines include:

• Respect the historical sites: Avoid climbing on walls or touching delicate structures.
• Follow your guide’s instructions: They provide important information and safety advice at each site.
• Weather can change: Be prepared for sun, wind, or rain, even on a seemingly clear day.

Recommended Age for the Tour

The South Valley tours is suitable for a wide range of ages. Considerations for different age groups:

• Families with children: Sites like Tipón and Pikillaqta have open areas good for kids to explore. However, some walking is involved.
• Older adults: The pace is generally relaxed, but some walking on uneven ground is required. Assess mobility levels and take breaks when needed.
• Altitude: All ages can be affected by Cusco’s altitude. Take it easy on the first day and stay hydrated. The South Valley sites are at similar or slightly lower altitudes than Cusco city.

About Local Communities

The South Valley passes through traditional Andean communities. Agriculture is a key part of local life. You may see farming activities and interact with locals in small villages. Tourism is growing in the South Valley, providing income and opportunities for these communities.

Culture and Traditions

The South Valley is rich in Andean culture. You can observe:

• Traditional clothing: Some locals may wear traditional Andean attire, especially in smaller villages.
• Quechua language: You’ll hear Quechua spoken, alongside Spanish, in the communities.
• Agricultural practices: See traditional farming methods still in use in the valley.

Final Tips for Your Visit

The Cusco South Valley tour is a great alternative if you want to explore beyond the typical tourist paths. It’s often less crowded than the Sacred Valley but offers rich history and culture. For a similar experience combining history and beautiful scenery, consider visiting other less-known Inca sites around Cusco, or explore the region of Arequipa, which also boasts impressive colonial and pre-colonial history, but with different landscapes. Enjoy discovering the hidden gems of Cusco’s South Valley!