Pisac: A Treasure in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Pisac is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It is one of the most impressive sites in the valley, showcasing the complexity and sophistication of the Inca civilization. The site is known for its extensive terraces, temples, and residential buildings. Pisac stood out for its finely crafted masonry constructions and was a specialized corn production center. Visit Pisac and immerse yourself in a world where the past meets the present.

Pisac offers a deeply rooted cultural experience enriched by its historical wealth and natural beauty. In this blog, you will discover Pisac's rich cultural history and learn some important aspects.

History

Pre-Inca Era

Pisac has been inhabited since early times, beginning in the pre-ceramic period with the man of Chahuaytire. Evidence includes rock paintings and lithic industry tools left by these societies. Between 500 and 100 BC, Pisac was influenced by the ceramic cultures of Marcavalle and Chanapata. Later, it was home to local cultures such as Waru, Paqallamoco, and Qotakalli. A significant change occurred between 1000 and 1200 AD during the late intermediate period when the Amaru Mayu, Pillahuasi, and Antis ethnic groups began to occupy the valley. These groups were primarily engaged in agriculture using early terraces and were organized into communities known as ayllus.

Inca Era

During the expansion of the Inca Empire to the Tahuantinsuyo in the 15th century, Pisac flourished as a center of religious, agricultural, and military activity. According to Sarmiento de Gamboa, it was built and established during the reign of Inca Pachacutec as his country house and recreation area. It was his private property and was constructed based on the model of the city of Cusco. In the Inca period, Pisac was a center for corn and possibly potato agricultural production, facilitating commercial and cultural exchange.

Colonial Era

The arrival of the Spanish conquerors brought radical changes to the social and economic structure of Pisac, introducing new customs and beliefs that mixed with indigenous traditions. Additionally, depopulation occurred in Pisac, leading to the arrival of Viceroy Toledo around 1570. He ordered the reduction of the San Pedro de Pisac Indians and established a new economy based on agriculture. To control indigenous lands, he ordered the town of Pisac to be relocated and built in the lower part of the Inca remains. Pisac constitutes the first settlement in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Pisac Today

Currently, Pisac is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. The town retains its colonial charm and hosts a rich living culture. This site is famous for its archaeological monument and craft market. Additionally, Pisac is renowned for its impressive landscapes with panoramic views and the meanders of the Vilcanota River, making it an ideal place to experience the authentic essence of Cusco.

Main Historical Events

Pisac has witnessed numerous transformative events, from being a battlefield during Inca expansions to its role in resistance struggles against colonizers.

• 14th Century (1438 - 1472 AD): The Incas conquered the region and built the Pisac citadel during the reign of Inca Pachacutec.
• 1532: The Spanish arrived in Pisac, marking the beginning of the colonial era.
• 1911: The Pisac citadel was discovered, sparking interest in the region's Inca history.
• 1955: Pisac was officially created as the district of Pisac within the province of Calca.
• January 1780: Pisac was the site of the first Peruvian revolution against Spanish colonization, led by the Pisac chief, Bernardo Tambohuacso Pumayali.
• 1983: The Pisac Archaeological Park was declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation.

Meaning of Pisac

The term "Pisac" is derived from "P'isaqa," which means partridge in Quechua. This name evokes the image of birds that once abounded in the region, symbolizing the valley's vibrant nature. Additionally, the shape of the settlement represents this bird, which relates to the supposed practice of Inca architects creating their settlements following figurative traces.

Location

Pisac is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, 32 kilometers northeast of the city of Cusco. It is situated in the district of Pisac, province of Calca, and department of Cusco, at an altitude of 2,900 meters above sea level. The town of Pisac is surrounded by Andean mountains covered with vegetation, offering impressive panoramic views. The Urubamba River flows through the valley, creating a fertile and picturesque landscape.

Weather

Pisac has a temperate climate year-round. The ideal months to visit are from April to October when the weather is clear with a radiant sun. However, from November to March, the weather is cloudy with precipitation. The annual average temperature fluctuates between 11 and 16 °C, the maximums between 22 and 29 °C, and the minimums between 7 and -4 °C during winter, from May to August. The best time to visit Pisac is between June and August when the weather is dry and sunny, ideal for exploring the ruins and enjoying the landscapes.

Flora

In Pisac, you can find a variety of Andean plants native to the area such as: aliso (Alnus glutinosa), queuña (Polylepis racemosa), chachacomo (Escallonia resinosa), molle (Schinus molle), kantu (Cantua buxifolia), andichu or Andean straw (Stipa ichu). Additionally, you will see corn crops (Zea mays), vegetable plantations, and other species.

Fauna

The fauna is as diverse as the flora. In this area, you can see some of the most representative animals of the region, including: the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), partridge (Nothoprocta pentlandi), vizcacha (Lagidium peruanum), fox (Ducicion culpaeaus), Andean cat (Oncifelis jacobita), and other species.

Pisac archaeological Site

The Inca citadel of Pisac is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, on a hill overlooking the town. This site features a large number of ingenious agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, residential areas, and other structures that testify to the grandeur of the Inca Empire. These constructions stand out for their finely crafted masonry. Pisac offers an impressive view of Inca architecture and planning, as well as providing spectacular passages of the valley. In Pisac, you can see the following buildings:

Acchapata Terraces

The Acchapata terraces are a magnificent system of agricultural terraces built by the Incas. It consists of 40 terraces situated on the slopes of the mountains surrounding Pisac near the Inca road leading to the monument. These terraces, shaped like an inverted cone or fan, demonstrate the Incas' skill and ingenuity in maximizing cultivable land in mountainous terrain.

Intihuatana: The Inca Astronomical Calendar

The Intihuatana is a carved structure known as a ceremonial sundial. The term Intihuatana means "to tie the sun." It is located in the central area of the residential Intihuatana sector, where temples and palaces are found. The Incas used it to determine solstices and equinoxes and to calculate the natural cycles according to the sun's position. These architectural constructions are finely worked with well-carved lithic elements.

Towers or Pucaras

The towers or pucaras are defensive structures built by the Incas in strategic points on the top of the Pisac citadel. There are about twenty of these structures that challenge the terrain. These towers were used to guard the territory and protect the site from possible enemy attacks. In Pisac, you can see three types of towers:

• Residential Towers: Circular rooms with water supplies and windows, associated with water channels, built with finely carved and assembled pieces.
• Watchtower or Pucaras: Solid lookout posts with a flat surface.
• Wayranas Towers: Centers for metal smelting.

Tunnels

The tunnels of Pisac are a network of underground passages running through the Inca citadel. There are two tunnels carved into the rock of different sizes. One is 16 meters long, and the other is 3 meters long, located in the Kallaqhasa neighborhood. These tunnels were likely used to store food, water, and other supplies and to access different parts of the site in case of danger.

Tianayoq

The Tianayoq neighborhood, which means "has a seat," is named for a stone structure shaped like a seat or sofa for two people found in the courtyard. This small neighborhood is surrounded by rooms with doors opening onto the central patio. It was a ceremonial center dedicated to earth deities, highlighting the Incas' spiritual connection with their environment.

Pisaq’a Urban Neighborhood

The Pisaq’a neighborhood is the oldest part of Pisac from the Inca period. It is located about 200 meters from the Intihuatana neighborhood, above the Chongo River ravine in the lowest area. It consists of 23 buildings arranged in a semicircle, following the hill's profile. It has a wide semicircular street and narrow transverse streets. The construction in this area used the rustic "pirka" technique of uncarved stone with adobe.

Q’allaqhasa Urban Neighborhood

The Kallaqhasa neighborhood is the largest and highest urban sector, located at the top of the hill. It is surrounded by steep cliffs on both sides. It has houses distributed on steep levels, a 3-meter-long tunnel, and towers called sunturwasi, which were astronomical observatories. This area has an elevated building with two floors and two vertical niches, with stone rings on the jambs for securing doors.

Qanchis Raqay Urban Neighborhood

This neighborhood is located in the upper part of the site. It has seven rooms or house-like buildings, as its name suggests. It also has a building with 26 niches arranged in two rows. It is the oldest construction with rustic stone and mud masonry, known as the pukara, which controlled the road to the jungle.

Qoriwayrachina Urban Neighborhood

The Qoriwayrachina neighborhood is located on the left flank of the Kitamayo River. This neighborhood consists of semicircular towers with large windows offering panoramic views. These buildings are constructed with andesite stones joined with mud mortar. This neighborhood served as the valley's surveillance control post.

Pisac Wall

The Pisac wall is a series of buildings constructed in specific sections rather than continuously. These structures are made of enormous stones. Along the wall, you will find five access doors or openings, one of which still preserves its lintel, known as Amaru Punku, meaning "Serpent Gate." This trapezoidal door gives access to the most important enclosures of the Inca nobility.

Tantamarka Cemetery

The Tantamarka cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries from the pre-Hispanic era. It is located in the Pisac necropolis on the right flank of the Quitamayo River. This cemetery has multiple and single-person tombs attached to the rocky outcrop. Individuals can still be seen scattered on the surface of the funerary structures. Most of these tombs have been looted and desecrated by unscrupulous people.

The Town of Pisac

Pisac is one of the most important tourist attractions in the Sacred Valley, located at the top of the valley. It stands out for its impressive natural surroundings, high mountains, and the winding Vilcanota River. This town is renowned for its archaeological complex, which includes advanced agricultural terrace systems and defensive structures. Pisac is also recognized for its rich culture, manifested in local traditions, folk dances, and colorful traditional costumes. Another point of interest is its main square, which is the heart of community life.

A central aspect of community life in Pisac is its church, where a mass in Quechua, the region's native language, is celebrated every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. This mass is especially significant for community leaders, known as varayocs, from the high areas of Viacha, Saccaca, Paru Paru, Motupe, and Cotataqui. These leaders, bearing symbolic staffs of authority, are key figures in local administration and law enforcement.

The Plaza de Armas of Pisac

The Plaza de Armas of Pisac is located in the central part of the town. It is a place full of history and culture, witnessing the convergence of ancient and modern traditions. It is surrounded by the colonial church of San Pedro Apostal de Pisac and centuries-old trees, with narrow cobblestone streets. The square is also bordered by tourist restaurants, cafes, and bars. Pisac, with its square, is not only a meeting point for valley inhabitants but also a mirror of the past that continues to vibrate in the present.

The Pisac Artisan Market

The traditional artisan market of Pisac began as a spontaneous and typical fair. It is open from Monday to Sunday, where you will find products made by local artisans using traditional techniques. Here you can find alpaca textiles, high-quality pieces, musical instruments, paintings, stone works, and antiques, all available to the general public. The market is an ideal place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Additionally, the Pisac artisan market has a rich textile heritage unique to the region.

The Pisac Botanical Garden

The botanical garden, known as the Felipe Marin Moreno Garden in honor of the botanical explorer who created it in 1917, is located a few steps from the Plaza de Armas of Pisac. This garden is a sanctuary housing a variety of Andean flowers and plants. It also has a collection of over 200 native potato species, including orchids, bromeliads, and cacti. It is an ideal place for nature lovers who want to learn about the region's flora and enjoy the beautiful landscape.

The Potato Park

The Potato Park is a museum dedicated to the potato, a fundamental product in Peruvian cuisine. It is located in the Pisac district and is managed by the farming communities of Chahuaytire, Paru Paru, Pampallacta, and Amaru. Here, you can learn about the history of potato cultivation, its different varieties, and its importance to local culture. This innovative agricultural park celebrates the diversity of Peruvian potatoes with cultivation demonstrations and tastings, highlighting the importance of this tuber in the Andean diet.

The Aguana Cancha of Pisac

The Aguana Cancha is a breeding center for South American camelids. It is located on the route near Pisac in the Sacred Valley. This magnificent place allows you to meet llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, typical animals of the Peruvian Andes. Here, you can learn about their care, feeding, and importance to the local economy, as well as their historical and economic significance to the Andes.

Other Points or Sites of Interest Nearby

Chawaytiri

This interesting and little-explored site is located in the Community of Chahuaytire, just off the road from Pisac to Paucartambo. A short distance from the road, you will find rock shelters with rock paintings illustrating ancient hunting scenes, mainly of South American camelids. These rock formations likely served as shelters and resting places for the region's ancient inhabitants. A brief 40-minute trip from Pisac is required to reach this place.

Pukara Pantillijlla

This place is located in the community of Cuyo Grande and comprises a structure dating from the pre-Inca and Inca periods. The building features enclosures styled as Kanchas, organized in a semicircle to form a "U," suggesting its ceremonial purpose. These spaces are grouped around a central patio. The walls are made of irregular masonry joined with mud mortar. Access to this site requires a 30-minute walk from the nearest town.

Amaru

The Amaru community is located in the Unu Raquin ravine in the Pisac district. These Inca constructions include chullpas (funerary towers), enclosures, and terraces. The Amaru community is known for experiential tourism. It offers visitors textile production centers where they demonstrate the entire textile activity process, from obtaining camelid and sheep wool to washing, dyeing with natural plants, and finally making garments. Visitors actively participate in this process, gaining a unique experiential experience in the valley.

Entrance tickets to Pisac Inca Site

You can purchase the Pisac Tourist Ticket as part of the Integral Tourist Ticket (BTC), which allows access to 16 tourist destinations in Cusco and optimizes your travel budget. This ticket lets you visit museums, archaeological sites, and cultural centers and is valid for 10 days from the purchase date. Another option is the Partial Tourist Ticket in Circuit 3, which includes Pisac and other archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. This option is valid for 2 days.

Entry Hours to Pisac

The archaeological site of Pisac is open from Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Take advantage of the morning hours to visit this site.

Entry Cost to Pisac

The entry cost includes your visit to Pisac in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, varying depending on the ticket you wish to purchase. The two previously mentioned options are available.

Entry Fee for Minors Aged 10 to 17

Minors aged 10 to 17 must purchase their tourist ticket by presenting their valid identity document or passport if they are foreigners. The entry fee for the tourist ticket is free.

Entry Fee for University Students Aged 18 to 25

Students can purchase their tourist ticket by presenting their original and valid student ID or ISIC card. The entry fee is S/. 70.00.

Where to Purchase the Tourist Ticket in Cusco

The Cusco Tourist Ticket is available to anyone and can be purchased in several ways:

• COSITUC Office: Located at Avenida El Sol Nº 103, Office 102 (Tourist Gallery). This is the main office for ticket purchases.
  • Office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm - Saturdays from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.
• The tourist ticket includes all the places except the Qosqo Center of Native Art, Museum of Popular Art, and Museum of Contemporary Art.

Travel tips to vist Pisac

From Cusco, the journey to Pisac is an adventure with routes offering spectacular views of the Sacred Valley. Public and private transport combinations make it easy to reach this historic enclave.

• Public Transport: By Bus or Colectivo: You can take a colectivo from the Pisac Terminal in Cusco, located near the intersection of Avenida Tullumayo and Puputi Street. The trip takes about an hour and is quite economical.
• Taxi or Car: You can hire a taxi from Cusco to Pisac. It is more expensive than buses or taxis but offers more comfort and flexibility regarding schedules and stops.
• Private Tour: Several tour companies in Cusco offer private tours to Pisac, including transportation and a guide. This is an excellent option if you want a more personalized and detailed experience.

General Tips for Visitors

• Leave early and bring your ID or foreign residency card.
• Wear a hat or cap and sunscreen.
• Carry a basic personal prevention kit.
• Bring more than 1 liter of water to stay hydrated.
• Wear appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, or trekking shoes.
• Use the marked trails for safety.
• Respect the archaeological heritage and avoid touching, leaning on, or climbing the walls.

Safety and Health Tips

• Keep a first aid kit with you.
• Stay hydrated constantly.
• Eat safe food that is fresh and well-cooked.
• Use sunscreen, hats, caps, and umbrellas.
• Stay in crowded areas and do not expose your safety.
• Respect safety barriers, especially near slopes.
• Use reliable transportation, preferably through an organized tour, for exclusive service.
• Avoid traveling alone; opt for an organized tour that brings together travelers who share the same spirit of discovering new cultures.

Cultural Norms and Respect to Keep in Mind

• Follow the established routes and marked trails at the site.
• Avoid touching the stone elements of the archaeological monuments.
• Avoid climbing or leaning on the structures of the archaeological monuments.
• Keep the environment clean and safe; avoid littering.
• Preserving and conserving the site's cultural and natural heritage is everyone's responsibility.
• Avoid using environmentally toxic substances and materials that could endanger the cultural heritage.
• Respect local norms and the archaeological heritage by following the site's guidelines.
• Do not litter around the site; contribute to cleanliness.

Hotel and Restaurant Recommendations in Pisac

From cozy accommodations to gastronomy that delights the palate, Pisac offers amenities that will make your stay comfortable and delicious.

Highlighted Hotels in Pisac

• Roya Inka Hotel Pisac Experience by Xima-Valle Sagrado: A magnificent hotel with beautiful rooms and suites, a sauna, a pool, and free parking. During your stay, you can visit the Sarapampa farm, 4 km away. Ideal for those seeking a cultural experience. Open 24 hours a day.
  • Address: Carretera Pisac - Ruinas S/N, Pisac, Peru.
• Pisac Inn: A magnificent destination for your stay in Pisac, offering family rooms, spacious green areas, and a pool that invites you to relax and connect with nature. Ideal for a good weekend.
  • Address: Plaza Constitución 333, Pisac, Peru.
  • Phone: +51 956292201
• Pisac Inca Guest House: This wonderful place has pleasant and comfortable rooms, ideal for guests. It is easy to access one of Pisac's most popular attractions.
  • Address: Calle Huaynapicchu F-1, Pisac 08106, Peru.
• Bamboo Lodge Sacred Valley: Located away from town, near the Vilcanota River meanders, built with bamboo material. Perfect for travelers who want to connect with nature and feel at home.
  • Address: Carretera A Ruinas De Pisac Km 2.5, Pisac, Peru.
• Florencio Casa Hacienda: A boutique hotel dating back to the grand haciendas of the colonial era. This hotel has a beautiful botanical garden. The rooms are unique, as are the patios and lounges.
  • Address: Carretera A Ruinas De Pisac Km 2.5, Pisac, Peru.

Recommended Restaurants in Pisac

Pisac and its surroundings offer various culinary experiences reflecting both local traditions and international influences, making each meal a unique experience in Pisac.

• La Ruta - Restaurant Gourmet: This restaurant offers a mix of healthy Peruvian and Latin dishes with incredible fusion plates. It is also suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and presents drink options. Excellent food and service quality at reasonable prices.
  • Address: Calle San Francisco 153, Second Floor, Pisac 08106, Peru.
  • Phone: +51 900 875 364
• Antica Osteria Pisac: An excellent place for Italian cuisine lovers, offering pizza, pasta, and more, in an environment that combines bar and pizzeria. Also offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
  • Address: Avenida Federico Zamalloa S/n, Pisac 08000, Peru.
  • Phone: +51 926 253 525
• Cuchara de Palo: Located in Pisac's central square, this restaurant specializes in authentic Peruvian cuisine with traditional dishes and options for vegetarians and vegans. The view from its balcony is also a great attraction.
  • Address: Plaza Central de Pisac, Pisac, Peru.
  • Phone: +51 84 203062
• QUMAS Peruvian Cuisine Restaurant: Offers the best Peruvian food and an excellent culinary experience, as well as international meals and drinks.
  • Address: Amazonas 147, Pisac 08106, Peru.
  • Phone: +51 973 182 409
• Apu Organic Nativo Pisac Vagan Restaurant offers unique international and vegan cuisine focusing on healthy and organic dishes. It is known for its cozy atmosphere and use of local ingredients.
  • Address: Calle Grau # 534, Pisac 08106, Peru.
  • Phone: +51 84 788959

Similar places around Pisac

Ollantaytambo

Another impressive archaeological site in the Sacred Valley, known for its fortress and agricultural terraces, is located 60 kilometers northwest of Cusco in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This site is notable for its well-preserved Inca urban structure, including agricultural terraces and stone-carved temples. Additionally, Ollantaytambo is one of the few places where the Incas defeated the Spanish conquerors. The town maintains its original design with water channels and cobblestone streets, reflecting advanced Inca urban planning.

Chinchero

A charming archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, about 30 kilometers northwest of Cusco. Chinchero was one of the settlements established by Inca Tupac Yupanqui during the Inca Empire's expansion. It stands out for its unique combination of Inca architecture with colonial influences, evident in buildings like the colonial church built on the foundations of an Inca palace. Besides its historical value, Chinchero is known for its artisan market and textile production centers, where unique traditional textiles are sold.

Moray

This fascinating archaeological site is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, about 48 kilometers northwest of Cusco and 7 kilometers west of Chinchero. It is distinguished by its magnificent circular agricultural terraces, sinking like amphitheaters into the ground. The Incas believed that they used these terraces as an experimental agricultural laboratory to study the effects of different climatic conditions on crops.

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuamán, located above Cusco, is a stunning example of Inca engineering and artistry. This massive fortress, with its precisely crafted stone walls, connects visitors to Peru's rich history. Exploring the ruins, you'll be amazed by the architecture's scale and precision, showcasing the Inca's ingenuity. Sacsayhuamán is more than a historical site; it brings the past to life, inviting you to discover the legacy of the Inca Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Pisac

What is Pisac, and why is it famous?

Pisac is an Inca archaeological complex located strategically on top of a mountain in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, overlooking the town. It is one of the best-preserved and most impressive sites, apart from Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. Pisac is also famous for its artisan market, where visitors can buy traditional textiles, jewelry, and pottery.

How do I get to Pisac from Cusco?

Pisac is about 45 minutes by car from Cusco. You can reach it by bus, colectivo, or an organized tour. Buses and colectivos leave regularly from Cusco and are an economical and popular option among travelers.

What is the best day to visit the Pisac market?

The Pisac market is larger and more vibrant on Sundays when a Quechua mass is also held in the town church. The market is also open on Tuesdays and Thursdays but is smaller.

Do I need to buy a ticket to visit the Pisac ruins?

Yes, you need to buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which also gives you access to many other attractions in the Sacred Valley and Cusco. Depending on how many sites you plan to visit, there are partial and full ticket options.

How much time is it recommended to spend in Pisac?

One day is usually enough to explore the ruins and the market. However, if you are interested in delving into local culture or enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, consider spending a night in the town.

What other sites can I visit near Pisac?

The Sacred Valley is full of attractions, including the ruins of Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray, as well as the salt mines of Maras. All are relatively close and accessible on a day trip from Pisac.

Are there accommodation options in Pisac?

Yes, there are various accommodations available in Pisac, from budget hostels to more luxurious lodges. Many visitors choose to stay in Pisac for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty.

What type of food can I find in Pisac?

In Pisac, you can enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine, including dishes like baked guinea pigs, fresh trout, and Sacred Valley corn. There are also options for those who prefer international or vegetarian food.

What activities can be done in Pisac?

Besides exploring the ruins and the market, Pisac offers opportunities for hiking, visiting local communities, and participating in pottery and weaving workshops with local artisans. It is also an excellent place for photography and bird-watching.

What is the best time of year to visit Pisac?

The dry season, from April to October, is ideal for visiting Pisac, as the days are generally sunny and temperatures pleasant. The rainy season, from November to March, can present challenges due to slippery roads and reduced visibility in the ruins.