Things To Do
in Pisac
Pisac is a charming Andean town located in Peru's Sacred Valley. It is famous for its vibrant artisan market showcasing beautiful handcrafted goods. Visitors can explore the impressive Inca ruins that overlook the town, offering stunning panoramic views of the valley below.
Pisac also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals and ceremonies celebrated throughout the year.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the famous Pisac Market, where you can find colorful handicrafts and local produce. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the market stalls and engaging with local artisans. Don't forget to sample some delicious street food that showcases the flavors of the region.
As evening approaches, relax at a nearby terrace with a view of the mountains. Savor a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your market adventures.
Make your way to the Pisac Ruins early in the morning for a cooler hike. Explore the impressive ancient terraces and temples that offer breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.
After visiting the ruins, take some time to enjoy a picnic lunch in the lush surroundings. Spend the afternoon taking photographs and enjoying the tranquility of the site.
Return to town just as the sun starts to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Choose a cozy restaurant to indulge in a traditional Peruvian dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including traditional markets and Incan ruins.
- Stunning natural scenery with mountain views and picturesque landscapes.
- A vibrant local community with opportunities to engage in traditional crafts and cuisine.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring nearby archaeological sites.
- Relatively less touristy compared to nearby Cusco, providing a more authentic experience.
- Altitude sickness can be a concern for travelers not acclimated to high elevations.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities, which may affect comfort.
- Access to some attractions may require significant travel or hiking.
- Seasonal weather can impact travel plans, with heavy rains during the wet season.
- Language barriers may pose challenges for non-Spanish speakers.
Best Activities in Pisac
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A popular trekking route that takes you from the town of Pisac to the impressive Inca ruins located on a mountainside, offering stunning views of the Sacred Valley.
Explore the vibrant Sunday market in Pisac, where you can find local crafts, textiles, and fresh produce, providing a cultural experience and a chance to mingle with locals.
Enjoy exhilarating mountain biking trails around Pisac that cater to various skill levels, featuring scenic views and diverse landscapes.
The area around Pisac is rich in biodiversity, making it a great spot for bird watching enthusiasts, with opportunities to see various species native to the Andes.
Join guided adventure tours that might include activities such as rock climbing, rafting, or zip-lining in the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Pisac.
Participate in outdoor yoga classes or retreats that take advantage of the tranquil environment and stunning scenery of the Sacred Valley.
Places to Visit in Pisac
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its well-preserved Inca ruins and stunning panoramic views over the Sacred Valley, this site offers numerous vantage points perfect for photography.
Located within the archeological site, this ritual stone is a popular spot known for both its historical significance and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A vibrant local market that not only provides excellent photo opportunities of colorful textiles and crafts but also the Andes mountains in the backdrop.
A less-visited part of the area that offers stunning canyon views and unique photo opportunities with dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear river.
Part of this famous trail includes sections with breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, making it a perfect spot for capturing the iconic mountainous landscape.
A lookout point accessible by a short hike that provides some of the most spectacular views of the Sacred Valley, ideal for sunset photography.
Food in Pisac
Pisac Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Peruvian delicacy, Cuy (guinea pig) is roasted to perfection, offering a unique blend of crispy skin and tender meat. Try it at Picanteria Rumy or El Horno de la Tía Clara.
Must-Try!
This stir-fry dish combines marinated beef, onions, tomatoes, and other flavorful ingredients, served with rice. Head to Ulrike's Cafe for a delicious rendition.
Pachamanca is a celebratory dish, featuring marinated meats, potatoes, and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones. Enjoy it at Huchuy Qosqo Restaurant.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to sample local street food like empanadas, tamales, and freshly squeezed fruit juices. Don't miss the colorful array of fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods.
Discover a variety of food stalls offering authentic Peruvian street food, including anticuchos (grilled skewers), tamales, and choclo con queso (corn with cheese).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Many locals in Pisac uphold traditional customs and practices. It is important to be respectful and show interest in their cultural heritage, such as their weaving or agricultural traditions.
Greeting locals warmly with 'Hola' or 'Buenos Días' (Good Morning) is a sign of respect. In more rural areas, a handshake or gentle hug among familiar acquaintances is common, so be attentive to local practices.
While Pisac is a popular tourist destination, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting sacred sites or local homes. Avoid overly revealing clothing and opt for respectful attire that honors local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Pisac
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pisac, Peru, tipping is customary but not mandatory. It is generally appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for services such as tour guides and taxi drivers. A typical tip ranges from 10% to 15% of the bill, but rounding up to the nearest sol or leaving small change is also common. In more tourist-oriented establishments, tips may be more expected.
Payments in Pisac can be made in cash, and the local currency is the Peruvian sol. While credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, smaller shops and markets may only take cash. ATMs are available, but it is advisable to carry some cash for convenience, especially in rural areas. Currency exchange services are also available for travelers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Pisac, as the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the ruins. Expect clear skies, warm days, and cool nights. Tourists can enjoy various outdoor activities and festivals during this time.
While travel during the wet season is less popular due to frequent rain showers, it offers a different experience. Expect lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Rain can be heavy at times, but visiting in this season can also provide opportunities to witness local flora and fauna, and enjoy quieter visits to attractions.
These months offer a transition between dry and wet seasons. Visitors can expect mild weather with occasional rain in November. It’s a great time to travel for those looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying decent weather. The landscapes are still scenic, and several local events may occur.
Pisac at Night
Hiking in Pisac
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that leads through the beautiful landscapes surrounding Pisac, offering stunning views of the Sacred Valley and the ruins at the top.
This hike takes you to the archaeological site of Intihuatana, an ancient Incan structure with panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
A less-traveled path that leads to ancient stone quarries used by the Inca, with opportunities to explore various Incan structures along the way.
A longer hike connecting the ruins of Ollantaytambo to Pisac, traversing beautiful landscapes and providing insights into the Incan civilization.
This trail leads to a wildlife sanctuary where hikers can observe Andean animals while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Aiports
How to reach Pisac by plane.
Located in Cusco, approximately 34 kilometers from Pisac, this airport serves domestic and international flights.
Located in Lima, approximately 570 kilometers from Pisac, this is the main international airport in Peru, serving as a hub for flights to various destinations around the world.
Located in Arequipa, about 800 kilometers from Pisac, this airport provides both domestic and limited international services.
Located in Trujillo, approximately 610 kilometers from Pisac, this airport serves both domestic and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Pisac's inhabitants are of Quechua descent, maintaining traditional customs and language.
This group, of mixed Indigenous and Spanish descent, forms a significant portion of the population in Pisac.
There is a presence of migrants from other parts of Peru, particularly those who speak Spanish and may or may not integrate with local culture.
While not a resident demographic, tourists from around the world visit Pisac, contributing to its economy and cultural exchange.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Pisac, like in much of Peru. Local teams compete in various leagues, and the sport brings the community together during matches.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and youth. Local tournaments are common, and it serves as a popular recreational activity in schools and community gatherings.
Events like 'futbol de los pueblos' (village football) and other traditional games often take place during local festivals, showcasing athleticism while honoring cultural heritage.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, with several local courts available for community play, drawing both youth and adults.
Due to the scenic landscape of the Sacred Valley, mountain biking has become a popular activity for both locals and tourists, with various trails available around Pisac.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pisac.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Peruvian cuisine traditionally features meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Pisac offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like Quinoa Salad, Veggie Stir-Fry, and options featuring local produce.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like ceviche made with fresh seafood, Peruvian corn-based soups, and grilled meats accompanied by gluten-free sides at various eateries in Pisac.