Pisac Overview

V!VA User‘s Description

Pisac (32 km. northeast of Cusco) is popular for both ancient and modern reasons. The ancient ruins at the top of the mountainside featuring a small Inca village with temples, palaces, solstice markers, baths and water channels draw archaeologists from around the world. Its modern attraction is because of the wekly Sunday market, drawing travelers from around the world looking for bargains on indigenous weavings, souvenirs and knit clothing.

The ruins above the village feature an ancient Inca fortress. A guide--contracted locally or through a tour operator--will lead you up the mountain via either a 10- kilometer paved road or a shorter and steeper footpath from the town's plaza. The hike lasts about two hours and is breathtaking. Look out for the palaces of the moon and stars, solstice markers, ceremonial baths and cliff-hanging terraced farms. It is worthwhile to plan a day for this trip. There are paths throughout the ruins and temples which you can climb. The descent takes about half an hour. Horses are also available for the trek, as are private cars and taxis if you aren't up for making the climb on foot.

Pisac can be reached from Cuzco by minibus, which leaves several times daily, or by private transportation.