Pisac

Welcome to the international airport for the cosmic traveler, according to one seasoned local. It’s not hard to succumb to the charms of sunny Pisac, a bustling and fast-growing colonial village at the base of a spectacular Inca fortress perched on a mountain spur. Its pull is universal and recent years have seen an influx of expats and New Age followers in search of an Andean Shangri-la. The local tourism industry has responded by catering to spiritual seekers, offering everything from yoga retreats and cleanses to guided hallucinogenic trips. Yet it's also worthwhile for mainstream travelers, with ruins, a fabulous market and weaving villages that should not be missed. Located just 20 miles (33km) northeast of Cuzco by a paved road, it’s the most convenient starting point to the Sacred Valley.

Explore Pisac

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Pisac.

  • Ruins

    Pisac Ruins

    A truly awesome site with relatively few tourists, this hilltop Inca citadel lies high above the village on a triangular plateau with a plunging gorge on…

  • Market

    Mercado de Artesania

    Pisac is known far and wide for its market, by far the biggest and most touristy in the region. While there are still some local arts and crafts of note,…

  • Church

    Iglesia de San Pedro Apostol

    Traditionally dressed locals descend from the hills to attend mass in Quechua, including men in highland dress blowing horns, and varayocs (local…

  • Gardens

    Jardín Botanico

    A private enterprise with a huge courtyard full of beautiful specimens and a resident cat.

  • Landmark

    Horno Colonial San Francisco

    Huge clay ovens for baking empanadas and other goodies are found in many nooks and crannies, particularly on Mariscál Castilla. But this is the town’s…

  • Village

    Amaru

    If you are interested in textiles, it’s worth visiting this weaving community that’s a 40-minute trip by taxi from Pisac.

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Pisac.

  • Activities