Things To Do
in Pisac
Pisac sits high in the Sacred Valley above Cusco, surrounded by terraced hills and Andean farmlands. Its centerpiece is an impressive Inca-era archaeological site with sweeping valley views. The town blends colonial churches, a vibrant market, and traditional weaving communities.
Visitors come to hike, shop for textiles, and experience living Andean culture against a dramatic Andean panorama.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Pisac Market, where local artisans display their crafts. Wander through colorful stalls filled with textiles, ceramics, and authentic Peruvian handicrafts. Engage with the vendors and perhaps grab a traditional breakfast of 'pancakes de quinua' at a nearby café.
After exploring the market, hike up to the Pisac ruins, which sit majestically on a hillside. Enjoy sweeping views of the Sacred Valley as you wander through ancient terraces and ceremonial structures. Take the time to appreciate the history and culture that these ruins represent.
As evening falls, return to the village and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in Peruvian cuisine. Try dishes like 'cuy' or 'lomo saltado' while soaking in the vibrant ambiance of Pisac. Wind down your day by watching the sunset transform the surrounding mountains into a palette of colors.
Begin your day with a guided tour of the Sacred Valley, hopping between picturesque towns and soaking in the stunning landscapes. Visit Ollantaytambo to explore its impressive ruins and expansive terraces. Don’t forget to take lots of photographs in this vibrant setting filled with history.
Continue your adventure by stopping at Moray, an archaeological site famous for its unique circular terraces used as agricultural experiments. Learn about the significance of these Incan creations as you stroll through the site. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque scenery, tapping into the tranquility of the surroundings.
Return to Pisac and unwind at a local tea house, sampling various traditional herbal teas. Reflect on the day’s explorations while enjoying the lush greenery that envelops you. As night falls, socialize with fellow travelers and share stories from your journeys.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| 🧁Snack or street food | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Inca history and culture
- Stunning Sacred Valley scenery and terraces
- Compact town with walkable streets
- Accessible day trips to Cusco and Ollantaytambo
- Limited nightlife and high-altitude crowds in peak season
- Some services are concentrated in peak tourist season
- Altitude may cause discomfort for first-time visitors
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Pisac
Visit one of these nice places.
Spectacular Inca agricultural terraces with sweeping views over the Sacred Valley, especially at sunrise.
Historic center with adobe and stone walls framing mountain vistas.
Overlooks the Urubamba River bend and the town, offering dramatic valley photography.
Vibrant colors of textiles and foods in the Pisac market, great for candid street photography.
Food in Pisac
Pisac Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried guinea pig, a traditional Andean delicacy often available in Pisac eateries.
Must-Try!
Warm quinoa soup with vegetables and herbs, a comforting high-altitude staple.
Boiled potatoes with spicy cheese sauce; common in mountain towns.
Grilled alpaca meat served with potatoes and corn.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market with produce, spices, and prepared foods; sample roasted corn and fresh fruit.
Empanadas, tamales, and roasted corn sold by local vendors around the market area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest dress and quiet behavior when visiting churches or sacred sites; ask before photographing people or ceremonies.
Spanish is common; Quechua is widely spoken by locals; a few basic phrases in Spanish help.
Ask permission for portraits; avoid blocking narrow paths on market days.
Safety
Tipping in Pisac
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip ~10% if service is not included; guide and driver tips of $2-5 per person for day tours; small tips for hotel staff.
Cash (Peruvian soles) is widely used; many shops accept cards in tourist zones; ATMs available in Pisac and Cusco; small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with higher risk of afternoon rain; carry a light layer and umbrella; better for outdoor hikes, but trails can be crowded.
Cool to cold nights; sunny days; higher chance of clear skies for photography, but be prepared for chilly mornings.
Pisac at Night
Hiking in Pisac
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail through the ancient Inca terraces offering panoramic valley views.
A short hike to a viewpoint across the river with sweeping valley vistas.
Airports
How to reach Pisac by plane.
The main international airport serving Cusco and Sacred Valley, about 40-60 minutes from Pisac by car, depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population belongs to Andean communities with Quechua heritage and strong cultural traditions.
People of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry living in the town and valley.
Farm workers and tourists who visit for markets, farming, and hiking.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport throughout Peru, widely watched and played in towns like Pisac.
Popular outdoor activities in the Sacred Valley and surrounding mountains.
Mountain biking and road cycling are common in the valley.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pisac.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; look for quinoa, potato, and corn-based plates; ask for vegetables and legumes; avoid meat-based stocks.