Andahuaylillas Church
The "Sistine Chapel of the Andes," this 16th-century church boasts breathtaking murals and baroque decor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Tour groups thin out
Andahuaylillas Church
Best Time
Tour groups thin out
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The "Sistine Chapel of the Andes," this 16th-century church boasts breathtaking murals and baroque decor.
"The artwork is amazing and covers the ceilings and every inch of the walls."
🤫 No Photos Inside!
Remember, photography is strictly forbidden inside the church. Be respectful of the rules.
💰 Entrance Fee Worth It
The 18 soles entrance fee is a small price for the incredible artistry you'll witness.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The "Sistine Chapel of the Andes"
Marvel at the breathtaking murals and baroque artwork covering every inch of the walls and ceilings.
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Gold and Silver Altar
Be captivated by the beautifully adorned altar area, gleaming with gold and silver accents.
Fusion of Catholicism and Inca Traditions
Discover unique art that subtly blends Catholic iconography with Inca symbolism.
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Planning Your Visit
The "Sistine Chapel of the Andes"
Getting There & Entrance Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 No Photos Inside!
Remember, photography is strictly forbidden inside the church. Be respectful of the rules.
💰 Entrance Fee Worth It
The 18 soles entrance fee is a small price for the incredible artistry you'll witness.
🛍️ Souvenirs & Restrooms
A small gift shop and clean restrooms are available near the exit.
📍 Part of a Larger Tour
Often visited as part of the "Ruta del Sol" or Valle Sur tours from Cusco. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 No Photos Inside!
Remember, photography is strictly forbidden inside the church. Be respectful of the rules.
💰 Entrance Fee Worth It
The 18 soles entrance fee is a small price for the incredible artistry you'll witness.
🛍️ Souvenirs & Restrooms
A small gift shop and clean restrooms are available near the exit.
📍 Part of a Larger Tour
Often visited as part of the "Ruta del Sol" or Valle Sur tours from Cusco.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Andahuaylillas Church as a breathtaking "Sistine Chapel of the Andes" with stunning, immersive artwork. While the no-photography rule is a common point of mention, most agree the entrance fee is well worth the unforgettable visual experience. The church is a highly recommended stop for its unique artistic and historical significance.
"Amazing find in a small village. Worth the time and small entrance fee The artwork is amazing and covers the ceilings and every inch of the walls. The gold and silver covered alter area is beautiful, but the charm of this small church is from the combination of materials used and the restored frescoes. The town is easily accessible from Cusco. A few of the pictures are of the square where the church is located."
Kelly L
"The sistine chapel of south America. Well worth seeing inside, no photos allowed. Village is very cute"
Francois Edwards
"It's quite lovely but no photography allowed at all. It shows the connection between the Catholicism and Inca tradition in all the representations of the saints and art all incorporated into the art and depictions, so definitely interesting."
Marilyn Flores
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Andahuaylillas Church is located about 41 kilometers (25 miles) from Cusco. It's a common stop on tours like the "Ruta del Sol" or the Valle Sur tour. You can also hire a taxi or take a local bus, though tours offer a more convenient way to visit as part of a larger itinerary.
Yes, the church is a popular and scenic stop for travelers journeying between Cusco and Puno, often included in "Ruta del Sol" bus tours.
The distance is approximately 41 kilometers (25 miles) from Cusco. The journey typically takes about an hour by car or bus.
Yes, it's very feasible to visit Andahuaylillas as part of a day trip from Cusco, especially if you join a Valle Sur tour which often includes other nearby attractions.
The most common options are joining a guided tour, hiring a private taxi, or using local buses. Tours are convenient for seeing multiple sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance ticket typically costs around 18 soles per person. Many visitors find it to be a worthwhile expense for the unique experience.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance to the church. Booking in advance is generally not necessary unless you are part of a pre-arranged tour.
The church is generally open during daylight hours, but specific times can vary. It's best to check with your tour operator or local information if visiting independently.
As it is a place of worship, it's advisable to dress respectfully. Avoid overly revealing clothing.
The main restriction is a strict no-photography policy inside the church to protect the delicate artwork. +1
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the church. This is to preserve the ancient murals and artwork. +1
The church's facade and the surrounding plaza offer picturesque opportunities for exterior shots.
Focus on capturing the unique architecture of the church and the charm of the village square.
Standard daylight settings will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the church and plaza.
The flash and constant use of cameras can damage the delicate, centuries-old frescoes and artwork within the church.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's renowned as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes" due to its incredibly rich and detailed baroque murals and artwork that cover the interior.
Inside, you'll find stunning murals, intricate gold and silver decorations on the altar, and art that reflects a blend of Catholic and Inca influences. +1
While not always mandatory, guided tours can enhance your understanding of the art and history. Many tours from Cusco include a stop here.
Allocate about 30-60 minutes to fully appreciate the interior and exterior of the church.
The nickname refers to the overwhelming beauty and density of the painted artwork that adorns the church's interior, similar to the Sistine Chapel in Rome.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there are small stores and cafes near the church where you can buy coffee and snacks.
While the village is small, you might find local eateries offering simple Peruvian dishes, especially if you explore a bit beyond the immediate church area.
Many tours that stop at Andahuaylillas also include lunch stops at designated restaurants along the "Ruta del Sol" route.
It's a good place for a quick coffee or snack. For a more substantial meal, consider dining in Cusco or Puno, or relying on tour-provided meals.
Options might be limited in smaller villages. It's always a good idea to inquire about vegetarian choices if dining locally.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting as part of a larger tour that includes more interactive elements or open spaces for kids to move around. The surrounding village and plaza offer a glimpse into local life, which can be interesting for families. Pack snacks and water, as dining options are limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
The entrance fee of 18 soles is a small investment for the incredible experience. Look for local eateries for affordable meals or pack your own snacks. The church itself is the main attraction, so you don't need to spend much once you're there. Consider combining your visit with other free or low-cost activities in the Cusco region.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
If you're on a tour, you'll likely have opportunities to photograph other sites along the "Ruta del Sol" like Raqchi. Focus on capturing the essence of the village and the grandeur of the church from the outside.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Andahuaylillas
+1 Inside, the walls and ceilings are covered in vibrant murals painted by indigenous artists, showcasing a unique blend of European Baroque style and local Andean motifs. The artwork often depicts biblical scenes, saints, and angels, but with subtle incorporation of elements that resonate with the Inca worldview, such as the representation of the cosmos and natural elements. This fusion is a testament to the complex cultural exchange that occurred during the colonial period. One of the most striking features is the gold and silver-adorned altar, which gleams with intricate craftsmanship. The sheer density of the artwork, with every available surface decorated, creates an immersive and awe-inspiring experience for visitors. The use of natural pigments and the preservation of these frescoes over centuries are remarkable achievements.
It's important to note that photography is strictly prohibited inside the church. This rule is in place to protect the delicate artwork from damage caused by flashes and constant camera use.
Navigating the "Ruta del Sol"
+1 This journey is more than just transportation; it's an experience filled with cultural and historical discoveries. Many tour operators offer this route, making it convenient for travelers to visit multiple significant sites in a single day or over a couple of days.Beyond Andahuaylillas, the "Ruta del Sol" typically includes stops at other fascinating locations such as the Raqchi archaeological site, home to the ancient Temple of Wiracocha, and the Abra de La Raya, the highest point on the route offering stunning Andean vistas.
+1 Some itineraries might also include the Pucara Lithic Museum. Traveling this route allows for a deeper understanding of the region's history, from Inca civilization to colonial influences. When planning your trip along the "Ruta del Sol," consider whether you prefer a guided tour or independent travel. Tours offer the advantage of organized logistics and knowledgeable guides who can explain the significance of each stop.
However, independent travel allows for more flexibility. Regardless of your choice, ensure you allocate ample time to truly appreciate the cultural richness and natural beauty of this iconic Peruvian route. 
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