Details
This wonderful half-day tour takes you south from Cusco to explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Tipon, showcasing the impressive engineering of the ancient Incas, and Piquillacta, an intriguing ruin from the pre-Inca Wari culture. The tour then continues to the charming town of Andahuaylillas, home to the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas,” a church adorned with stunning 17th-century mural paintings.
Departure & Return Location
Cusco hotel transfer
Departure Time
9:00 AM
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - Tipon - Pikillaqta - Andahuaylillas
We’ll pick you up from your hotel at either 9:00 am or 1:00 pm and head south in our private van toward Andahuaylillas. Here, we’ll visit the Saint Peter Church, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” Built by the Jesuits in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the church’s architecture is characteristic of village churches, with thick adobe walls and a facade decorated with beautiful murals and two large stone columns at the entrance.
Though modest on the outside, the church’s interior is stunning. Among its unique decorations is a painting of the “Assumption of the Virgin” by Spanish painter Esteban Murillo, along with wall paintings attributed to Luis de Riaño from the 17th century. After exploring the church, we’ll continue to the pre-Inca archaeological site of Piquillacta, where you’ll experience the impressive urban planning of the ancient Wari culture, set against a backdrop of mountains and lakes.
Next, we’ll visit the remarkable archaeological site of Tipón, famous for showcasing some of the finest examples of Inca hydraulic engineering. From there, we’ll stop in the village of Tipón, renowned for its traditional baked guinea pig dish—a local specialty that connects ancient Inca culture with the present-day Quechua culture. After enjoying a delicious lunch, we’ll return to your hotel in Cusco.
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