Hike to the Pisac Ruins

Písac, Peru

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

2 miles

Elevation Gain

2000 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Zee Lilani

One of the finest remaining Inca sites in Peru

The Pisac ruins bear a striking resemblance to Machu Picchu, just on a smaller scale. Fascinatingly, the drainage systems and agricultural terraces built in 1440 along with the rest of the ruins are still in use today. The Pisac ruins are believed to have defended the Southern entrance to the Sacred Valley from Spaniards in the 1500's. 

To reach the ruins, you must endure the 1.5 hour uphill hike from the small town of Pisac. The trail is well marked and maintained by the local people. There is an entrance fee of $20 at the small tourist office at the start of the trail. Backpackers tip: If you go before 6am, no one will be at the office yet and you can skip the payment, with the added bonus of watching the sunrise over the Sacred Valley. 

Although there are countless tour operators in Cusco offering tours to the Pisac Ruins and other ruins around, I feel like I got a more authentic experience by spending a few nights in the town of Pisac and seeing the ruins without any other tourists. 

Please be respectful at the ruins as this is a sacred place for many indigenous people. Do NOT leave trash laying around and respect other people there by keeping your voices low!

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Hike to the Pisac Ruins Reviews

😍🤩

The ruins are amazing, but there is also a way to make it a full ish day and hike over the pass and approach Písac from above, which is an incredible view.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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