Pisac, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas close to Cusco, makes for a wonderful half- or full-day trip. It is also a great place to relax on a longer visit. Inca Pisac, high above the modern town, contains stunning views and ruins to explore.

Getting from Cusco to Pisac is straightforward, with frequent buses from Avenida Tullumayo and collectivos from Puputi Street travelling there every day. From the modern town to Inca Pisac, one can hike or take a taxi.

Beautiful mountains, valleys and Incan terraces from Inca Pisac

In August 2016 Xindi, a German backpacker and I took a collectivo from Cusco to Pisac. In the town we met Lina and a French guy and the five of us shared a taxi to the ruins up top.

Entry to the ruins requires purchase of a Boleto Turistico (tourist ticket). The complete Boleto Turistico costs S/.130 (~US$40), is valid for 10 days and allows entrance to several sights in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Tickets can be purchased at the Inca Pisac entrance. There are discounts for students and other, cheaper options gaining entrance to fewer sights.

Likely constructed in the 15th century, Incan Pisac was destroyed by the conquering Spanish in the 1530s

Skeletons of Incan mummies visible in hillside caves

The Incas cleverly incorporated original rock in their fortifications

Standing high above the valley

A Peruvian family asked Lina for photos

An Incan Pisac wall containing rocks carved to go around corners

Incan terrace walls strategically incorporate steps

Christian crosses carved into Incan walls reflected dominance by the Spanish

At the top, a guide allowed us to tag along with his group, providing fascinating insight into Incan construction methods. The guide also pointed out a safe route to hike back down, passing a small cemetery. In the valley we caught a passing bus the remaining distance to Pisac.

Pisac town is famous for its souvenir and food market, particularly on Sundays

Oven-cooked empanadas, chicken and guinea pig (cuy) in central Pisac

After enjoying lunch and the market stalls, Xindi, Lina, the Frenchman and I left Pisac for our second destination, Ollantaytambo.