TIPON – PIKILLAQTA – RUMIQOLQA – MERCADO LOCAL
Description
Discover some of the most impressive examples of pre-Inca and Inca engineering on this full-day cultural experience from Cusco. Travel approximately 74 km to explore the remarkable hydraulic system of Tipon, the ancient pre-Inca city of Pikillaqta, and the monumental gateway of Rumiqolqa. The tour concludes with a visit to a traditional local market in Cusco, where you can experience authentic daily life and local products.
This tour features an easy level of hiking and is accessible for most people in good health.
- Duration: 6 – 8 hours (Full Day)
- Hiking Distance: 3 km / 1.8 miles (total across all sites)
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Maximum Altitude: 3,560 m / 11,680 ft (at the Tipon archaeological site)
Tour details
Included:
- Professional bilingual tour guide
- Tourist transportation
- Guided visits to Tipon
- Guided visits to Pikillaqta
- Guided visits to Rumiqolqa
- Visit to a local market in Cusco
Not included:
- Entrance fees (Tourist Ticket – if required)
- Meals and beverages
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips (optional)
Itinerary
Day 1: Tipon – Pikillaqta – Rumiqolqa – Local Market
- Your day begins with a scenic drive from Cusco heading southeast toward the South Valley.
- The first stop is Tipon, an impressive archaeological site known for its sophisticated Inca hydraulic engineering. You will admire its perfectly designed agricultural terraces and functioning water channels that continue flowing after centuries.
- Next, you will visit Pikillaqta, a large pre-Inca urban center built by the Wari culture. Here, you will explore its well-planned streets, plazas, and residential compounds, showcasing advanced urban organization.
- The journey continues to Rumiqolqa, an ancient Inca gateway that once controlled access to Cusco. This monumental stone structure highlights the architectural mastery of the Incas.
- Finally, you will return to Cusco to visit a traditional local market, where you can experience local culture, fresh produce, and regional products before concluding the tour.
Recommendations
- Easy hiking level, suitable for most travelers in good health
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Carry a reusable water bottle
- Bring some cash for purchases at the local market
Prices
1 person
$140 USD
2 people
$92 USD
3 people
$73 USD
4 people
$65 USD
5 people
$59 USD
6 people
$57 USD
7+ people
$55 USD
Notes: Foreign tourist entrance tickets may be useful for future circuits.
Map
From 55 USD
TIPON – PIKILLAQTA – RUMIQOLQA – MERCADO LOCAL
1 Day
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