Cusco isn’t just about Machu Picchu. In the city and the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, there’s a string of archaeological parks that not only showcase the architectural prowess of the Sun’s children but also their ability to blend their stone constructions harmoniously with the Andean landscape.
The Pisac Archaeological Park is a prime example of this quality. Its vast agricultural terraces, temples, observatories, homes, and cemeteries will impress you with their solid stone walls. But that’s not all. During your visit, you’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.
Before or after exploring the park, make sure to venture into the Pisac market, one of the most vibrant in Peru. We recommend taking your time to explore it, as there’s so much to see and buy, from handcrafted goods to an extraordinary variety of traditional products.
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Where is Pisac?
You won’t have to venture far from Cusco to explore the Pisac Archaeological Park. The distance is short—just 33 kilometres to the northwest—and the road from the former Inca capital is paved.
Don’t worry about transportation. You’ll find various ways to reach this destination in the Calca province, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Keep reading, and we’ll provide you with all the details you need to visit Pisac, the village, the market, and the Inca site.
A Bit of History
As the Incas began to solidify their political and social power, they found themselves needing to expand their domain beyond the city of Cusco. In their quest for territories to consolidate their burgeoning empire, they discovered a nearby valley that was productive, accessible, and ideal for their purposes.
It’s easy to imagine what happened next. The Urubamba Valley would become the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, the Sun’s children established numerous strategic settlements, including Pisac, which served as an administrative, military centre and the royal estate of Inca Pachacútec.
Nothing lasts forever. After the fall of the Tawantinsuyo due to the Spanish conquest, Pisac was transformed into a reduction of indigenous people during the period of the Toledo reforms.
One of the measures imposed by Viceroy Francisco de Toledo required natives to leave their homes in higher altitudes. The goal was to relocate them to nearby and more accessible towns, supposedly to facilitate evangelisation.
During the conquest, the Spaniards—eager to find gold and silver—destroyed or plundered Inca temples and homes. Despite this, the structures of Pisac withstood these assaults of greed, remaining to this day a valuable pre-Hispanic testament in the Sacred Valley.
What Will You See in Pisac?
Get ready to discover one of the wonders of the Sacred Valley. The Pisac Archaeological Park stands out for its intricate urban planning, flawless architecture—where stones fit together like puzzle pieces—and its productive agricultural terraces.
The terraces are a testament to advanced pre-Hispanic agricultural technology. This system transformed mountain slopes into farmland, maximising the use of land in rugged geographical areas.
While it’s true that Inca society was predominantly agricultural, like any empire, it was not free from military threats and risks. For this reason, Pisac also served a strategic military role, featuring defensive systems that included fortified walls and watchtowers.
On your visit, you’ll explore various areas and sectors, such as the ceremonial baths, residential settlement, cemetery, and the neighbourhoods of Intiwatana, Tianayuc, K’alla Q’asa, Pisaq’a, Qanchis Raqay, and the Acchapata terraces, as well as the Torreones or Pucaras.
How to Get There
Due to its proximity, accessibility, and undeniable attractions, Pisac is one of the favourite destinations for travellers spending their holidays in Cusco.
Here’s some information to help you get to this village in the Sacred Valley of the Incas:
By Public Transport: On Puputi Street in Cusco, you’ll find the bus stop for Pisac. Buses run daily, so you won’t have trouble starting your journey. The fare ranges from 10 to 12 soles per person.
By Taxi: For added comfort, you can hire a taxi from Cusco. Be sure to confirm the fare (for a one-way or round trip) with the driver before you set off. If possible, ask your accommodation if they can recommend a trusted driver.
By Tour: Local operators offer various itineraries that include Pisac and other locations in the Sacred Valley. You can choose between group or private tours, and conventional or adventure options (such as biking or hiking). You decide how you want to experience it—all are extraordinary.
How Much Is the Entrance Fee?
The Pisac Archaeological Park is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, both in the full ticket (130 soles for foreigners, 70 soles for Peruvians) and the partial ticket (70 soles for foreigners, 40 soles for Peruvians).
Regarding the opening hours, you can access the archaeological site from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. For a more relaxed and peaceful visit, try to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
A Stop at the Pisac Market
Como te darás cuenta el mercado es un lugar perfecto para interactuar con la población local y comprar artesanía típica. Eso sí, no olvides llevar efectivo en soles. Es la manera más fácil de comprar.
You shouldn’t leave Cusco without visiting one of the most vibrant, bustling, and diverse markets in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. So, before or after exploring the archaeological park, make sure to discover everything that’s on offer in the urban area of Pisac.
In the market, you’ll find the finest agricultural products from the valley, a wide range of crafts, musical instruments, Cusqueñan school paintings, alpaca fibre textiles, and everything you need for rituals and shamanic sessions.
And since Peru is a gastronomic haven, take the opportunity to sample some traditional broth or another Andean delight. Your taste buds will thank you.
As you’ll see, the market is a great place to interact with locals and buy traditional crafts. Just remember to bring cash in soles, as it’s the easiest way to make purchases.
Travel Recommendations
- If you’re planning to visit the Pisac market on a Sunday, try to arrive as early as possible. On this day, a large number of locals and community members come to practice barter.
- Bring cash in soles to avoid any issues when making purchases.
- Pisac is a destination best explored on foot. Wear comfortable and durable shoes; hiking boots would be ideal if you have them.
- Don’t forget to bring a water bottle, a warm layer (as the sun can be deceiving), a raincoat (in case of a passing shower), a hat, and sunscreen on your excursion. Make sure not to leave these essentials at your accommodation.
- Take the opportunity to enjoy the delicious food of the Sacred Valley at local restaurants during your visit.
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