History & Background
Pisac guarded the southern entrance to the Sacred Valley, housing royal residences, temples, and agricultural terraces.
What to Expect
Pisac is the gateway town of the Sacred Valley, crowned by one of the most spectacular Inca citadels in Peru — a mountain of agricultural terraces, temples and the Intihuatana stone. Below, the town's market fills the plaza on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays with textiles, ceramics and silver from valley communities. The Sunday market is the largest and most traditional.
How to Arrive
45 minutes by bus or taxi from Cusco.
Practical Travel Tips
- Hike to the top of the ruins for stunning valley views.
- The market is especially lively on Sundays.
- Included in the Boleto Turistico.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which market day should I visit Pisac?
Sunday is the biggest and most traditional market, when villagers come down from the surrounding communities. Tuesday and Thursday are smaller but still lively.
How long does the Pisac citadel visit take?
2–3 hours: the ruins climb the hillside with remarkable views, ending at the Sun Temple and Intihuatana. A guide at the entrance explains the terraces and aqueducts.
Is Pisac included in the Boleto Turistico?
Yes — the archaeological site is part of the Boleto Turistico's Sacred Valley circuit.
Continue Exploring Cusco
Humantay Lake
A dazzling turquoise glacial lake sitting at the foot of the snow-capped Humantay Mountain at 4,200m elevation.
Machu Picchu
The iconic Inca citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Sacred Valley of the Incas
A picturesque valley dotted with traditional Inca villages, agricultural terraces, and impressive archaeological ruins.