Tour info
Destination
Age
12+
Elevation
3100m (10,170ft) - 4000m (13,120ft)
Physicality
5/10
Duration
1 day
Tour Type
Best time to travel
All year
About This Tour
Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and agriculture of the Sacred Valley on this unique Pisac ruins hike and cultural experience. This full-day journey combines community visits with a spectacular top-to-bottom hike through the entire length of Pisac Archaeological Park, offering a deeper understanding of both ancient Inca heritage and living Andean traditions. Our first destination is the village Cuyo Chico, where you will learn about the region's traditional ceramic techniques and witness a demonstration on mud bricks construction, a building technique still used in Andean homes today. This hands-on introduction offers insight into the architectural traditions that have shaped communities throughout the Sacred Valley. Next, we will journey to Paru Paru, a high-altitude Andean community part of the renowned Parque de la Papa (Potato Park). Here, your guide will introduce you to the ancestral farming techniques still used by the locals and explain the importance of potatoes in Andean culture—a region where over 3,000 varieties are grown. After enjoying a delicious lunch prepared by a local family, the adventure continues with a tour through the entire Pisaq Archaeological Park—one of the most impressive archaeological complexes in the region. The vast site includes agricultural terraces, temples, ceremonial spaces, military structures, and one of the largest Inca cemeteries discovered in the Andes. This full-day excursion will allow you to explore all these fascinating areas. Beginning at the upper entrance of the ruins, we descend along ancient stone pathways through the different sectors of Pisac. Along the way, you’ll visit the famous Intihuatana (sundial), pass watchtowers and temples, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and the town of Pisaq below. The hike concludes in the charming town of Pisac, where you will have time to browse the local markets and purchase souvenirs before we make our way back to Cusco.What is Included in the Tour:
- Professional Guide: Enjoy the company of a expert, knowledgeable guide, providing detailed explanations of each site's history and cultural significance. Your guide will be fluent in both Quechua, still primarily spoken in the Andean communities, and your chosen language
- Comfortable Private Transportation: Travel in a modern, comfortable vehicle, ensuring a relaxing and efficient journey between each destination.
- Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to the archaeological sites and cultural activities are included, allowing you to focus on the experience without any additional costs.
- Delicious organic meal: 1 Lunch.
- Personalized Experience: We cater to your specific interests and preferences, offering a flexible and adaptable tour experience.
- Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: We provide convenient pickup and drop-off services from your hotel in Cusco.
What to Bring:
Sunscreen, sun hat, camera, rain gear, comfortable walking shoes, day backpack, trekking poles, snacks, water, Peruvian soles for souvenirs/tip, layers of clothingItinerary
Full Day Pisac
- Your Guide will pick you up at your Hotel at 7am
- Drive Time: A total of 3 hours of driving time for the day.
- Cuyo Chico – See traditional mud-brick construction and pottery-making.
- Paru Paru – Learn about potato farming and Andean agriculture. Enjoy a traditional lunch.
- Pisaq Archaeological Site – Discover ancient Inca terraces, temples, and burial grounds with a 4km (2.5miles) hike.
- Visit Pisaq Market – Shop for handmade souvenirs and local crafts.
- Return to Cusco – Back to your hotel by late afternoon.
Tour Map
The All-Day Pisaq Tour covers approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) round trip, including high-altitude farming communities, archaeological sites, and cultural landmarks in the Sacred Valley. The hike from the top of Pisaq Archaeological site down to the town of Pisaq is approximately 4km (2.5miles) and varies in difficulty, with sections ranging from gradual inclines and declines to more challenging areas featuring stairs.