Pisac Tourist Attractions
|
|
Pisac, one of the main tourist stops in the Sacred Valley, is just a 32 km drive from Cusco. Many people come here on a day trip or as part of a day tour of the Sacred Valley. The main attractions in this small town are the Pisac Market and the Pisac Ruins above the town, both of which are well worth seeing. The Pisac Ruins are one of the most important sites in the Sacred Valley, along with those at Ollantaytambo. The market, held on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays is a good place to pick up some souvenirs and see the Andean Villagers in their traditional clothing.This is a pleasant little town situated on the bank of the Urubamba River. The main plaza where the market is held also has a beautiful old church and a couple of restaurants nearby. For those with more time to spend in the Sacred Valley this is a good place for spending a night.
Pisac Market
The weekly Pisac Market is held on Sundays with smaller market days on Thursdays and Tuesdays. However, there are always some sellers with goods on display in the main plaza, and if you arrive on a non-market day it is still worth checking out. The market can actually be more enjoyable on these days because there are not hordes of people around and it is easier to bargain.The quality of the goods at the Pisac Market is medium to low. Compared to the same goods which are sold in Cusco, they are usually a better price here. It's also a convenient shopping area, with a large variety of items.The Pisac Market is designed to accommodate both locals and tourists. Some areas sell crafts, blankets, clothing, and souvenirs which are marketed towards tourists, while other areas sell meats and produce aimed at the locals. Traditionally dressed locals wander through the market along side foreigners. Some women who dress in their "finest" traditional clothes, specifically for the tourists, will ask for money to have their picture taken. These women are easy to spot, dressed in their best and carrying a baby sheep or other small animal in one arm while holding the hand of a colorfully dressed child.
Pisac Ruins (Pisaq)
On the hillside high above and directly behind the town of Pisac are the Pisac Ruins. These ruins, along with those at Ollantaytambo are the most important in the Sacred Valley.The Pisac Ruins are famous for their agricultural terracing which is cut into the mountainside. The terraces can be seen from across the valley and many points on the valley floor below. Walking paths above the terraced walls offer incredible views over the site and the valley below. At the top is a ceremonial center with temples and baths.You can walk up to the site from the town of Pisac, although this is quite a hike. Alternatively, you can have a car drop you at the top of the Pisac Ruins and the driver will meet you later at a parking area on a lower level.
