Cusco

South Valley, Cusco.

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April 3, 2025

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History of the South Valley of Cusco

The South Valley has a rich and varied history dating back to Inca times. During the height of the Inca Empire, this region played a crucial role in the development and expansion of that civilization. Within its geographical area there are great archaeological sites.

Among them are Tipon, Pikillaqta and Raqchi, archaeological sites that show the greatness and ingenuity of this ancient civilization. For this reason, the South Valley has also been home to indigenous communities that have preserved their ancestral traditions throughout the centuries, and today it is possible to learn about their history.

South Valley Tourist Attractions

Cusco’s southern valley is full of tourist attractions that will delight history buffs and nature lovers alike. You can see everything from archaeological centers to charming traditional villages and breathtaking natural landscapes. Undoubtedly, it is a place that allows us to know every detail of this valley.

Archaeological Centers Among the archaeological sites we will visit are:

Tipón: Inca Hydraulic Wonder

Tipon, an architectural jewel located in the southern valley of Cusco, is known for its advanced Inca hydraulic system. This archaeological site offers a fascinating window into the hydraulic and agricultural engineering of the ancient Inca civilization.

Tipon’s canals, aqueducts, and agricultural terraces highlight this culture’s ability to harness water and agriculture in a mountainous terrain. Visitors can explore these structures and learn about the importance of water in the lives of the Incas and their ability to adapt to the natural environment.

Pikillaqta: Pre-Inca city

Pikillaqta is an archaeological site that stands out as a pre-Inca city with influences of the Wari culture. This ancient pre-Inca city allows visitors to observe the urban and architectural organization of this civilization.

Its straight streets, squares and stone structures allow tourists to explore the vestiges of an ancient society that flourished in the Andes before the rise of the Inca Empire. In addition, its strategic location in the southern valley makes it an essential stop for lovers of history and archaeology.

Raqchi: Temple of Wiracocha

Raqchi, also known as the Temple of Wiracocha, is an Inca archaeological complex that stands out for its imposing architecture and its religious and cultural importance. The main temple, dedicated to this god, is one of the largest buildings constructed by the Incas and reflects the architectural skill and ingenuity of this civilization. In addition to the temple, Raqchi is home to other structures such as dwellings, warehouses, and ceremonial plazas that give visitors a first-hand look at life in Raqchi.

Andahuaylillas and its Sistine Chapel

Andahuaylillas is a picturesque town known for the presence of the “Sistine Chapel of America”, a small colonial church also known as the Church of San Pedro Apostle, famous for its impressive interior decorated with mural paintings and works of sacred art belonging to the Cusco School.

All visitors are amazed by the beauty and artistic richness of this temple, which reflects the fusion of European and Andean cultures in colonial times. In addition to the chapel, Andahuaylillas offers travelers the opportunity to explore its cobblestone streets and learn about the traditions and customs of its inhabitants.

Oropesa: Capital of Bread

Oropesa is a charming town known as the “Capital of Bread”, due to its baking tradition that goes back centuries. All visitors can enjoy a stroll through its streets full of traditional bakeries where all kinds of breads and pastries are made using ancestral techniques.

In addition to its bakery fame, Oropesa offers tourists the opportunity to get to know its colonial church, squares and local customs, making it a must-see destination for gastronomy and culture lovers.

Lagoons and natural landscapes

The southern valley of Cusco is a place of natural beauty, with impressive lagoons and picturesque landscapes. Among its treasures are the Huacarpay lagoon, which reflects the blue sky and surrounding vegetation, and the Huasao wetlands.

These captivating landscapes offer an unforgettable experience for nature and adventure lovers.

Laguna de Huacarpay

The Huacarpay Lagoon, located in the southern valley of Cusco, is a refuge of biodiversity and a beautiful natural enclave. This wetland is home to a total of 108 species of migratory and resident birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

It also offers stunning mountain scenery and the opportunity for outdoor activities such as hiking and nature photography.

Huasao Wetlands

The Huasao Wetland is a unique ecosystem located in the southern valley of Cusco. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including waterfowl, amphibians and native plants.

The Huasao wetlands are an important water reservoir that contributes to the conservation of the local ecosystem and the well-being of the communities that depend on it. In addition, visitors can explore these wetlands through nature trails with views of some of the sculptures found here.

Among the sculptures that can be observed are: Groot, Baby Groot, reptiles, amphibians, auquenids and mermaids; sculptures up to 3 meters high that allow us to take pictures and connect with nature.

Where is the South Valley?

The Southern Valley of Cusco is a geographical area made up of villages and natural areas located south-east of the city of Cusco. Most of them belong to the provinces of Canchis and Quispicanchis.

Weather in the South Valley

The southern valley of Cusco has a cold temperate climate with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 23°C to a minimum of 3°C.

The rainy season is from November to April, especially in January, February and March. The rest of the year, from May to October, is the dry season. During these months, the nights are colder, but it does not rain often.

Below we explain how to visit the South Valley of Cusco

To visit it, travelers have two options:

Organized Tour: This is the best option for those who want a complete experience with a guide, transportation and entrance fees included.

Visit on your own: you can take public transportation or rent a car, although it is important to remember that you will have to walk in some areas.

Access to the most important archaeological sites in the southern valley is provided by the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Circuit 2), which includes access to the following sites

Tipon, Pikillacta, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Regional Historical Museum, the Pachacutec Monument, and the Qosqo Center of Native Art and Museum of Popular Art.