South Valley Cusco

South Valley

The South Valley of Cusco is actually located southeast of the city of Cusco. For commercial reasons this is the name given to a geographical area of several kilometers where there are Inca archaeological sites and other civilizations. It also stands out for its colonial temples located in Andean villages of great tradition. It is famous for its beautiful lagoons, wetlands and Andean landscapes.

A large part of this geographical area is included in the province of Quispicanchis. The Vilcanota River runs through its valleys and ravines. The snow-capped peaks of Pachatusan, Huaypun, Pumacancha, Curi and Wiraqucha. Lagoons like Huacarpay are home to different types of birds and fish.

The most famous tourist attractions in the South Valley are: the archaeological site of Tipon, the archaeological site of Piquillacta and the church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas. These places are included in the half day tour to the 'South Valley of Cusco'.

The average altitude in the valley is 3,200 meters above sea level. The most famous villages are: Oropesa, Huasao, Huaro and Urcos. There you can enjoy the delicious Cusco gastronomy with dishes such as: fried guinea pig, baked pork, stuffed rocoto and more.

The valley is very close to the city of Cusco. Huasao, one of the first of its towns, is only 19 kilometers from Cuzco.

Main attractions

These are the best known archaeological sites in the South Valley:

Tipón

This archaeological site was built by the Incas in the 15th century as a religious precinct for water worship. This is evidenced by its canals and water fountains, the most perfect of Inca manufacture found to date. The function of the water was for the irrigation of gardens and terraces. However, it also had a purification function. Tipon also has enclosures, temples, roads, stairs, squares and viewpoints. It is 25 kilometers from the city of Cusco.

Piquillacta

This archaeological site was built by the Wari civilization, which inhabited the coast, highlands and part of the jungle of Peru between the centuries 100 AD and 1200 AD. In Cusco they built this city with a capacity for 10,000 people. It is famous for its long and narrow streets as well as for its adobe enclosures up to three levels high. Its name comes from a Quechua word that means 'small town or town of fleas'. It is 33 kilometers from the city of Cusco.

Andahuaylillas Church

In the traditional town of Andahuaylillas is this colonial temple famous for its murals and canvases that decorate the place. It was baptized by the tourist guides as the 'Sistine Chapel of America'. On the outside it has a simple architecture. It is part of the 'Cusco Andean Baroque Circuit'. The entrance is purchased on site.

Towns and traditions

These are the villages of the South Valley:

Oropesa

This Andean town is known for its delicious breads and snacks made in artisan ovens since long ago. It also offers a dinosaur-themed playground for children. There are also large swimming pools. The town is located 25 kilometers from the city of Cusco.

Huasao

This Andean town is known as the town of the witchdoctors since many shamans offer their services in this place. One of its most famous sites is the 'Humedales de Huasao' (Huasao Wetlands). It belongs to the district of Saylla. It is located 19 kilometers from the city of Cusco.

Huaro

This Andean town is famous for the bread that bears its name, distributed throughout the Cusco region. In its small but small square stands out the Temple of San Juan Bautista, a colonial construction of architectural beauty. The town is 43 kilometers from the city of Cusco.

Urcos

The town of Urcos is one of the most commercial places south of Cusco. It is famous for its colonial streets where the colonial church of Canincunca stands. It also highlights the beautiful lagoon of Urcos, home to birds and fish. This city is located 46 kilometers from the city of Cusco.

Natural attractions

Among them we have the following:

Huacarpay Lagoon

This lagoon belongs to the district of Lucre, at an altitude of 3,050 meters above sea level. It is made up of three permanent lagoons, one seasonal (during the rainy season), three marshes, and the Lucre River that supplies its waters. It is possible to see up to 108 species of birds. There are also different species of fish and even mammals that live there.

Huasao Wetlands

In the town of Huasao there are wetlands inhabited by bird and fish species. However, the great attraction of this recreational park are the wooden sculptures carved in the shapes of 'Groot', 'Baby Groot' and 'Ents'. The aim is to provide a message of caring for nature. The wetlands are 19 kilometers from Cusco.

Urcos Lagoon

This large lagoon is shaped like the national coat of arms of Peru. It is home to different species of plants such as cattails. It is also home to ducks, fish and birds. Its green waters are a spectacle to behold. It offers boat rides and viewpoints. The lagoon is located 44 kilometers from the city of Cusco.

The Climate

The southern valley of Cusco has a temperate climate that varies according to the town and the altitude at which it is located. In general the temperature can reach a maximum of 23ºC. and a minimum of 2ºC. The rains are more constant from November to April (especially in January, February and March). The dry season, with little rainfall, occurs from May to October.

How to visit the South Valley of Cusco?

To visit the South Valley of Cusco you must purchase the 'Cusco Tourist Ticket (Circuit 2)'.

This ticket includes admission to several tourist attractions such as: Tipon, Pikillacta, Coricancha Museum, Regional Historical Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, Monument to Pachacutec, Museum of Popular Art and the Qosqo Center of Native Art.

The Cusco Tourist Ticket can be purchased in the city of Cusco: 103 El Sol Avenue and Garcilaso Street.

Another option is to visit directly the tourist attractions of the South Valley and buy the entrance tickets at the same access door.