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Cusco, the “Navel of the World,” is an inexhaustible source of tourist attractions and a destination for thousands of visitors. In this tour, we introduce another interesting tourist circuit of the imperial city of the Incas, consisting of the sites of Tipón, Piquillaqta, and Andahuaylillas. This unique combination of pre-Hispanic and Spanish remains is evidence of the cultural duality of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. At Inca Perú Travel, with the aim of meeting your needs, we offer this tour where you can observe the pre-Hispanic roots of what is known as the “Archaeological Capital of America”.
Tipón: This archaeological site showcases the Incas’ mastery of hydraulic engineering. At Tipón, you can admire an exceptional irrigation system with vertical and horizontal channels across terraced fields. Water flows from underground sources to a fountain, from which it is distributed through the channels. Tipón was a significant agricultural production center, and today the land continues to yield its fruits through the terraced fields of this charming location.
Piquillaqta: Continuing with this archaeological center located 18 km southeast of the imperial city of Cusco, dating back to pre-Inca times. Piquillaqta, named during the colonial period with this Quechua term meaning “village of fleas,” is characterized by its stone, lime, and plaster construction. Notable features of this site include its streets arranged in quadrants, two-story buildings with plastered walls, and paved floors. Initially, Piquillaqta was a satellite city of the Wari (6th to 13th centuries AD), a significant civilization predating the Inca Empire; it is also said to have once hosted the famous Tiahuanaco culture.
Andahuaylillas: South of Cusco, Andahuaylillas is a traditional village reached after a 45-minute journey by tourist transport. This village boasts a proud colonial temple in its main square, known as “The Sistine Chapel of America” for its exquisite Baroque paintings on the ceiling and walls, created by the Cusqueña School of Art.
OPTIONAL
A group tour means that it is open for other hikers to join.
2 Travelers: $ 0 per person
3 Travelers: $ 0 per person
4 Travelers: $ 0 per person
5 Travelers: $ 0 per person
6 Travelers: $ 0 per person
7 Travelers: $ 0 per person
8 more Travelers: $ 0 per person
Private tours are available and the price depends on the size of the group.
During the tour, you will visit Tipón, Piquillaqta, and Andahuaylillas. These sites offer a unique view of Inca hydraulic engineering, pre-Hispanic architecture, and Spanish influence in the region.
Tipon is at 3,560 m.a.s.l, Pikillacta at 3,250 m.a.s.l, and Andahuaylillas at 3,093 m.a.s.l.
The tour lasts approximately half a day, usually between 5 and 6 hours.
Tipón is known for its exceptional irrigation system and stepped terraces, showcasing the mastery of Inca hydraulic engineering. Additionally, it was an important agricultural production center during the Inca period.
Piquillaqta is an archaeological site dating back to before the Inca civilization, characterized by its stone, lime, and plaster construction levels. Notable features include its quadrant-shaped streets and two-story buildings.
Andahuaylillas features a colonial church with magnificent interior decor, including Baroque paintings on the ceilings and walls. Because of its exquisite sacred art, it is referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of America.”
Yes, the tour is suitable for people of all ages as it does not require strenuous walking. Visits to archaeological sites are quiet.
It is recommended that you wear comfortable, suitable walking shoes, such as hiking shoes or boots, due to the uneven terrain at some of the archaeological sites.
Yes, most tour operators like Inca Peru Travel offer guides in Spanish and English. You can also request guides in other languages, depending on availability.
Although it is not a demanding hike, it is advisable to acclimatize in Cusco for at least one day, as you will be visiting sites at high altitude.
We are Inca Perú Travel certified tour operator, we offer tours to different destinations in Peru, as well as cultural experiences, adventure tours, gastronomic tourism and our most recent experiential and community tourism tours.
