Pisaq the highlands wonder

prime pisaq

Overview

 

Pisaq (also spelled Pisac) is a small Andean town and major archaeological site in Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas, about 33 km (20 miles) northeast of Cusco.

Location & Setting

 

  • Located around 2,972 m (9,751 ft) above sea level

  • Beautiful view mountain scenery and well-preserved Inca engineering

Historical Significance

 

  • Pisaq was an important Inca administrative, religious, and agricultural center

  • Traditionally attributed to Inca Pachacuti (15th century)

Pisaq Archaeological Park

 

One of the most impressive Inca complexes in the Sacred Valley, featuring:

 

  • Terraces: Extensive agricultural terraces carved into steep mountainsides

  • Ceremonial areas: Temples, altars, and ceremonial fountains

  • Inca cemeteries: Cliffside tombs (among the largest known in the Andes)

  • Advanced engineering: Sophisticated water irrigation and stonework

The archeological site sit high above the modern town and offer incredible views of the valley.

 

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Why Visit Pisaq?

  • Combines impressive ruins, living Andean culture, and scenic beauty

  • If you visited or not  Machupicchu is a other option to see 
  • Less crowded and more expansive than Machu Picchu

  • A great introduction to Inca architecture and Sacred Valley history

Pisaq Town & Market

 

  • The modern town is known for its traditional market.

  • Sells handwoven textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and souvenirs

Visiting Tips

 

  • Often visited as part of a Sacred Valley day trip from Cusco

  • Can be reached by bus, taxi, or guided tour

  • Best visited in the morning for clearer views and fewer crowds

  • Bring sun protection and water—altitude and sun can be intense 

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ITINERARY

We will begin by picking you up from your hotel at 7:00 am. We will take a van to Pisaq, a 1.5-hour drive to the Pisaq Archaeological Center.

 

Once there, we will enter through the upper section. After an explanation of the site, we will begin exploring the important areas in the upper part of the site. Then we will walk along the path towards to the nobility and religious sector.

 

We will  explain to you about the site, and during the tour, we will visit the area known as Pisaqa (quechuas houses), the agricultural terraces, and enjoy incredible views from the top of this area. Finally, we will descend along the inca trail to the town of Pisaq, where we can appreciate the various crafts that reflect the knowledge this magical town has nowadays.

 

What do you need to bring

 

  • original passport
  • daypack
  • water
  • snacks
  • sun block
  • sunhat
  • warm jacket