Andean Baroque Route Private Tour from Cusco: Churches & Art

Summary

Private Day Trip: Cusco’s Baroque Churches & Local History

If you want to see more than just ruins around Cusco, this private tour along the Andean Baroque Route gives you real insight into local history and art—with stories only locals know and plenty of time to explore each church up close.

What’s the experience like?

You know you’re in Peru when the air smells faintly of eucalyptus and incense, and the plaza outside Cusco’s Jesuit church is already buzzing before 9am. Our guide, Mariela, waved us over by the stone steps—she had that easy way of mixing facts with little stories about the city. Inside, sunlight slipped through stained glass and caught on gold leaf details I’d have missed if she hadn’t pointed them out. It’s not just another church; it’s a piece of living history, still full of locals ducking in for a quick prayer between errands.

The road south gets quieter as you leave the city behind. At Canincunca Chapel, we paused by Lake Urcos—mist curling off the water even at midday. The chapel itself is tiny but packed with color: murals that blend Andean textile patterns with Catholic icons. Mariela explained how these designs tied Pachamama to the Virgin Mary, which honestly made me see the place in a whole new light. There was a vendor selling sweet bread nearby; I grabbed one for later.

Huaro’s church felt cooler inside—thick adobe walls keep out the heat. The murals here are wild: scenes of life after death that are both beautiful and a little eerie. Mariela said some paintings date back to the late 1500s, which is kind of mind-blowing when you’re standing right there looking at them. The Renaissance altar is older than most things I’ve seen in Peru.

But nothing really prepares you for San Pedro de Andahuaylillas—the so-called Sistine Chapel of America. From the outside, it looks simple enough, but step inside and it’s like walking into another world: gold everywhere, huge canvases from the Cusqueña School lining the walls, an old pipe organ that still works (if you’re lucky enough to hear it). We spent extra time here just soaking it all in while Mariela pointed out hidden details in the retablos and ceiling art.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Andean Baroque Churches Tour

• Visit Jesuit Church in Cusco Main Square
• Explore Canincunca Hermitage
• See Church with Renaissance Altar and Murals
• Tour San Pedro de Andahuaylillas Church

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes, it's great for all ages and fitness levels—just let us know if you need any special arrangements.

Do I need to bring anything special?

A light jacket helps since mornings can be chilly. Bring some cash if you'd like snacks from local vendors along the way.

Will our guide speak English?

Absolutely! Your professional guide speaks both English and Spanish fluently.

Are entrance fees included?

Yes—all admissions are covered in your booking price.

What’s included

Your bilingual guide (English/Spanish), pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco, all admission tickets to churches along the route—so you can focus on enjoying every moment without worrying about logistics.