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Tour info
About This Tour
Depart from Cusco around 7 AM, embarking on a scenic journey that will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Our first stop will be the ancient Wari city of Pikillacta, a site that dates back to the 6th century and stands as a testament to the advanced civilization that once thrived here long before the Inca Empire. As we explore the well-preserved ruins, you’ll walk through the wide, stone-paved streets, past large ceremonial plazas and imposing walls that hint at the grandeur of the Wari people. The site’s architectural complexity and strategic layout offer a rich contrast to the more familiar Inca structures. We’ll continue our journey to Rumicolca, just a short drive away. This site is often compared to a Roman aqueduct due to its remarkable stonework and engineering. The imposing walls and arches were once part of a massive water management system that served the region. As we stand before this monumental structure, your guide will explain its function as both a source of water and an important passageway, highlighting the ingenuity of the ancient Andean peoples in harnessing their natural resources. Continuing our journey, we’ll drive for about 20 minutes to reach Tipón, an extraordinary archaeological site known for its stunning terraces and intricate water channels that still flow with water today. Upon arrival, we’ll begin a 30-minute walk uphill from the parking area, allowing you to take in the peaceful surroundings and the scenic beauty of the area as we make our way to a panoramic lookout. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. After enjoying the vistas, we’ll descend to explore the main terraces and their remarkable water fountains. The advanced hydraulic systems here, which once fed the agricultural terraces, demonstrate the sophistication of Andean engineering. As you wander through the site, your guide will explain the religious and agricultural practices that were intertwined with the site’s construction. Throughout this journey, your tour guide will share fascinating insights into the historical and cultural significance of each location, shedding light on the lives of the ancient civilizations that shaped this region. At the end of the tour, we’ll return to Cusco, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.
What is Included in the Tour:
- Professional Bilingual Guide: Enjoy the company of a expert, knowledgeable guide fluent in your chosen language, providing detailed explanations of each site’s history and cultural significance.
- Comfortable Private Transportation: Travel in a modern, comfortable vehicle, ensuring a relaxing and efficient journey between each destination.
- Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to the archaeological sites, allowing you to focus on the experience without any additional costs.
- Personalized Experience: We cater to your specific interests and preferences, offering a flexible and adaptable tour experience.
- Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: We provide convenient pickup and drop-off services from your hotel in Cusco
What to Bring:
Sunscreen, sun hat, camera, rain gear, comfortable walking shoes, snacks, water, Peruvian soles for souvenirs/tip, layers of clothing
Itinerary
Your guide will meet at your hotel at 7:00AM
Drive Time: A total of 2 hours of driving time for the day.
Pikillaqta: Explore the impressive ruins of this pre-Inca Wari site.
Rumicolca: Marvel at the impressive stonework of this ancient structure, which once served as a vital water management system
Tipón: Witness extraordinary terraces and advanced hydraulic systems
Back to your hotel by early afternoon
Tour Map
This tour covers approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles), traversing the scenic South Valley of Cusco. The route involves short walks at each site, with some uneven terrain.