Are the Pisac Ruins Worth Visiting?
Is it Worth Visiting the Inca Ruins of Pisac?
While Machu Picchu attracts tourists worldwide, many visitors miss out on other remarkable Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Among these sites are the Inca Ruins of Pisac, which offer a fascinating look into ancient Inca culture and engineering. After visiting, I can confidently say that the Pisac Ruins are well worth exploring.
I visited the Inca Ruins of Pisac during a two-day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This page highlights my experience specifically at Pisac. I have a separate page that covers a full overview of my Sacred Valley tour.
Is it Worth Visiting the Inca Ruins of Pisac? - Table of Contents
Disclaimer: Buzzin’ Around the World strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information based on our research at the time of publication. We respect all applicable laws and fair use principles. If you believe any information is incorrect or violates regulations, please contact us at buzzinaroundtheworld@gmail.com.
Affiliate Links and Reviews: We use affiliate links to generate income and may receive a commission at no additional cost to you when you use our links. We strive for honest and transparent reviews, even for products which we receive compensation.
Content Creation: Our content is based on our own travel experiences. All photos are our own unless otherwise stated. We sometimes utilize AI tools to assist with tasks like generating titles, summarizing content, and improving organization.
For more information: Please click HERE to visit our privacy policy page. We can be reached at buzzinaroundtheworld@gmail.com.
How Much Does it Cost to the Pisac Ruins?
Before arriving at Pisac, we stopped to buy entrance tickets, though mine had already been arranged through my tour. The entry fee for the Pisac Ruins is S/. 70 ($18), which allows access to this stunning site filled with historical significance.
About the Inca Ruins of Pisac
Upon arriving, I wanted to know more about what makes the Pisac Ruins special. Our guide, Alberto, gathered us under an overhang to explain the significance of Pisac and the Incas who lived there.
Alberto began by sharing how the Incas buried their dead. They believed the body consisted of earthly and heavenly elements. In death, the Incas would mummify their loved ones in the fetal position, placing the mummies in burial holes in the mountains. These graves often contained precious gold and silver, which the Spanish looted, discarding bones in the river. Alberto mentioned that, on rare occasions, a zoom lens might reveal a bone or two in the cliffs—though I didn’t spot any myself.
Terrace Farming at Pisac
One of the highlights of Pisac is its terrace farming system. To make the steep Andean landscape farmable, the Incas constructed terraces using layers of stone, gravel, sand, and soil
These terraces are an impressive feat of engineering and demonstrate the Incas’ advanced farming techniques. As a Global Studies teacher, I found it fascinating to see terrace farming up close.
Food Storage at Pisac
As we climbed toward the main part of the ruins, Alberto pointed out food storage buildings on the site’s edge. Positioned to catch the Andean winds, these storage structures helped keep the Incas’ food supplies fresh and prevent spoilage. This insight into the Incas’ storage techniques was a unique aspect of Pisac that I hadn’t considered before.
The Best View at Pisac
One of the main attractions at Pisac is the panoramic view from the top of the ruins. From this viewpoint, you can see the terraces spread out below and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Sacred Valley. The climb to the Pisac viewpoint was challenging due to the high altitude—over 10,000 feet—but the views were absolutely worth it.
Alberto explained that this vantage point once served as an Inca lookout post to watch for enemies. Today, local rangers stationed here at night ensure that no one disturbs the ancient burial sites in search of gold or silver.
Tours of Pisac, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Below are some tours and packages for visiting the Sacred Valley, Pisac, and Machu Picchu. These options range from a two-week trek on the Inca Trail to a one-day visit to Machu Picchu. As an affiliate of Viator, I may receive a small commission if you book using the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Please note, that Viator works with multiple agencies, so there’s no guarantee you’ll be booked with a specific operator.
Related Content
Cusco, Rainbow Mountain, and Palccoyo