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Sacsayhuaman & Pisac Day Tour

Duration: 1 Day
Group Size Up to 12 people
Max Altitude: 3500 m.s.n.m
Type Service: Group
Transportation: Van
Difficulty: Mild
Duration: 1 Day

The Sacsayhuaman and Pisac Day Tour focuses on 2 of the most important archeological sites in Cusco, Sacsayhuaman and the Inca Village of Pisac, with its impressive Incan Ruins above the city. Sacsayhuaman is an impressive ruin that dominates the northeastern part of the city of Cusco. We also explore the archeological sites of Q’enqo, Puca Pucará and Tambomachay, which are located on the way to the Sacred Valley. On the second half of the tour travel to the Inca Village of Pisac, Pisac has one of the largest handicraft and textile markets in the region of Cusco and the archeological ruins of Pisac are considered to be one of the finest remaining Inca archeological sites in the country. The Inca tunnel and the Sacred Temple Complex are constructed from exquisitely carved pink granite.  You will also explore one of the biggest Inca cemeteries with more than 2000 tombs and admire the incredible farming terraces carved into the mountain. All this before returning to Cusco.

Trip Details

PLACES YOU VISIT IN OUR SACSAYHUAMAN & PISAC DAY TOUR

  • Sacsayhuaman
  • Pisac Ruins
  • Pisac Market
  • Lunch in Pisac
  • Q’enqo
  • Puka Pukará
  • Tambomachay
  • Return to Cusco around 4 or 5pm

ITINERARY

Day 1

We will pick you up from your hotel at 8am in our private van to start our journey to the Sacred Valley in the direction of the large Christ statue at the top of the hill, called Cristo Blanco (White Christ) that shines 24 hours a day over Cusco.  We start our tour at the famous archeological site of Sacsayhuaman, with its impressive Inca architecture, which dominates the city. Finally, we explore the archaeological sites of Q’enqo, Puca Pucará and Tambomachay, which are located in the northeast section of Cusco on the way to the Sacred Valley.

On our way, to Pisac, we stop to enjoy the mirador of Taray to enjoy a classic view of the Urubamba valley with crops dressing the mountains like a carpet. Onward, we drive to the archeological site of Pisac, one of the finest remaining Inca archeological sites in the country. There, we explore the Inca tunnel and the Sacred Temple Complex constructed from exquisitely carved pink granite of this important citadel. You will explore one of the biggest Inca cemeteries with more than 2,000 tombs and admire the incredible farming terraces carved into the mountain. Here, we will spend more than 2 hours, exploring this Inca city.

Then, we head towards the colorful market of Pisac, that is famous for its being the largest pre-Columbian style handicraft and textile market within the region of Cusco. At this colorful Inca market, you will be able to appreciate a mixture of colors and Inca culture and tradition. You will have plenty of opportunities to test your bartering skills, interact with the local artisans and purchase their hand-made souvenirs. You will discover alpaca goods of all types, such as sweaters, shawls, hats, gloves, spreads and much more, woven textile rugs, a huge silver jewelry market much of which is made right there, decorations, alpaca rugs, art work and trinkets of all types. Be sure to try out fresh made pizza and empanadas made in a large old fashion Inca ovens.  There you can stop for lunch and try out all of the local food.

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman (which means ‘satisfied falcon’) is one of the most impressive sites built by the Incas. It is generally referred to as a fortress; however it is not certain what its main function was in reality. Current research suggests that it was more likely used as a temple, as Inca tombs have been discovered in the area.  The site is a marvellous archeological feat; even now after it was destroyed, one can only imagine its greatness when it stood in its full glory. The stones in the wall are incredible and the largest one weighs 128 tons!

The Incas envisioned Cusco as having a puma shape and Sacsayhuaman was the head. The magnificent zigzag walls are the major attraction. The grounds surrounding Sacsayhuaman are still used today for the colourful festival of Inti Raymi which is held to celebrate the winter’s solstice on the 24th of June.

PISAC MARKET

Pisac is located at the entrance of the Sacred Valley.  It is a quaint Inca Village that is famous for its being the largest pre-Columbian style handicraft and textile market in the region of Cusco and its archeological Ruins. At the colorful Inca market in Pisac you will be able to appreciate a mixture of colors and Inca Culture and Tradition. You will have plenty of opportunities to test your bartering skills, interact with the local craftsmen and purchase their hand-made souvenirs. You will discover alpaca goods of all types, such as sweater, shawls, hats, gloves, spreads and much more, woven textile rugs, a huge silver jewelry market much of which is made right there, decorations, alpaca rugs, art work and trinkets of all types. Be sure to try out fresh made pizza and empanadas made in large, old fashioned Inca ovens.

PISAC ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE

The archeological ruins of Pisac are considered to be one of the finest remaining Inca archeological sites in the country. You will explore the Inca Tunnel and discover the biggest Ancient Inca Cemetery anywhere with more than 2,000 tombs. Further down the mountain is the Temple Complex constructed from exquisitely carved pink granite, featuring a sun temple, ceremonial altars, water channels and wells. Then finally a few hundred yards further down the mountain is a beautiful urban area located on a high semi-circular ledge. The ruin is surrounded by vast sweeping agricultural terraces which harmoniously blend into the natural curvature of the landscape.

Q’enqo

The site of Q’enqo, which means ‘maze’ in Quechua, contains the most impressive carved rocks in the Cusco area. There are carvings everywhere, although some are very indistinct, such as a llama, a condor and snakes have been identified. There are many zigzag channels on top of the natural rock, probably used for pouring sacrificial chicha (a local liquor made from corn). Below the rock, there are a number of caves and passageways , an altar which was used for the sacrifices of llamas and mummifications of people have been discovered.

Puka Pukará

Puka Pukará is translated as ‘the red fortress’ in Quechua. This is a small site and although the name suggests that it was a fortress, it does not appear to have had any defensive purpose. Probably it was used as an administrative center. The interesting point is the way the Incas built the walls over the rocks.

Tambomachay

The name means “place of rest” in Quechua. It used to be the royal hacienda of the Inca Yupanqui, when he went to hunt in the surrounding area. This site was also thought to have been used as a Temple to the Water. There are some interesting aqueducts, canals and cascades sculpted out of stone, designed to channel water flowing from a nearby stream. We will return to Cusco around 4 or 5pm in the evening.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Included?

  • Pick up at your hotel
  • Professional English & Spanish speaking private guide
  • Private transportation to visit all Inca sites
  • Tax

No Included?

  • Entrance to Archeological sites: Purchase the Boleto Turístico (tourist ticket)  130 soles (about $38 USD), at the first site you enter. This can be used for 10 days to visit archeological sites in the Cusco region.
  • You can also purchase the 1 day Boleto Turístico for 70 soles
  • Meals

PRICE $179 USD

Please note: The Sacsayhuaman and Pisac  Day Tour is only offered to our clients doing a 2, 3, 4 or more days tours or treks to Machu Picchu.

  • GROUP of 1 to 6 persons – $179 USD for the total group  (not per person)
  • GROUP  of 7 to 12 persons – $217 USD for the total group (not per person)

HOW TO BOOK THE TOUR?

FIRST, to book your Bus to Puno from Cusco, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here the link BOOK NOW.

Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase your Bus to Puno from Cusco without the following information:

  • Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

SECOND, we require a deposit of $53.00 USD per person in order to purchase a your entrance to Machu Picchu and train ticket.  You can make you deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

If you would like to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATMS within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service fee, charged by VISA and PAYPAL.  To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address samtravelperu@gmail.com. 

The Boleto Turístico (tourist ticket )

You have the option to purchase a 1 day or a 10 day Boleto Turístico. 

The partial ticket, or 1 day ticket costs 70 soles ($20 USD) and is valid for 1 day.  You can visit a many sites as you like in one day with no further charge.  There are no discounts with this ticket.

Both tourist tickets, of 1 day or 10 day, allows the access to different archeological sites around Cusco, and Sacred Valley.  This is the best way to visit all the archeological sites of the region and the Sacred Valley. Most of the main archeological sites are not accessible for free.

The general ticket allows you over the next 10 days to enter 16 archeological and cultural sites in Cusco, the south valley and the Sacred Valley. The price of this ticket is 130 soles (about $40 USD) and is valid for 10 days. This is the cheapest and most convenient way to plan to see different sites in a few days. The cost for students under 25 (with the presentation of a valid University ID card) and for teenagers under 18 (with the presentation of an identity card) is 70 soles ($20 USD). Children under 11 are free.

Here is a list of sites where you can use your Boleto Turístico:

  • Sacsayhuaman
  • Qenqo
  • Pucapucara
  • Tambomachay
  • Pisac
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Chinchero
  • Moray
  • Tipón
  • Piquillaqta

Note : The entrance ticket  to the main archeological sites like Sacsayhuaman, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Tipón and Moray cannot be sold individually; you must buy the Boleto turístico to visit them. You can get it in Avenida el Sol nearby Peru office or at the time you enter the first site that you are visiting.  YOU MUST PAY IN SOLES, NO CREDIT CARD OR US DOLLARS ARE ACCEPTED. 

ImportantThese entrances are not included in the Boleto Turístico.  

  • The entrance to Qoricancha or Santo Domingo Convent (10 soles)
  • The entrance to the Cathedral (25 soles)

BRIEFING

The briefing will take place the night before the trek at 6pm in our office, which is located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the Lares trek to Machu Picchu. It inspires them to give excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many SAM Travel Peru destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you would like, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE? 

Yes, we are a locally sustainable & responsible tourism operator. That incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.

PACKING LIST

WHAT TO BRING FOR THE TOUR FOR SACSAYHUAMAN AND PISAC DAY TOUR?

  • Warm jacket and rain jacket
  • Hat
  • Water
  • Sun protection
  • Some money for souvenirs and food
  • Money in soles to purchase boleto turístico (70 soles)
  • Original passport
  • If you are a student, take your valid university ID card (only works for the 10 day boleto turístico)

Sacsayhuaman & Pisac Day Tour

Join SAM Travel Peru for an Unforgettable Travel Experience In Peru

  • 100% Locally Owned and Operated
  • Years of Experience in all Areas of Peru
  • Knowledgeable Staff ready to Help You
  • Uniquely designed Adventure treks and tours
  • Especially Designed Tours and Treks
  • The Best Quality Personal Service
  • Fantastic Value for Money with Many Added Extras
Your adventure. Our expertise.

Why Travel with SAM travel Peru?

  • Superior Service
  • Inca Trail Specialists
  • 100% value for money
  • Small Groups with a maximum of 8 people
  • Delicious and nutritious meals
  • Sustainable Travel
  • Years of Professional Inca Trail Experience
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Join the Thousands of Satisfied Customers who Rate us #1 on TripAdvisor

Bernie s 2023/03/02

Had a great trip with our guide Ray Herrera and driver Alfredo. Lots of good experiences in a short period of time 4 days. Learnt a lot not just about the main tourist destinations but Peru in general by Ray. Ray has a passion for Inca history and local produce. Ray knows all the good photo spots and we managed the sun out every day .. Good culture and if you want to get on a tour ask for Ray at Sams Travel = amazing

Tanya H 2023/03/02

Ray was our Tour Guide and Alfredo was our driver for a 4 day tour we did with SAM Travel Peru. Ray's knowledge of the history of Cusco and Machu Picchu was outstanding. Ray was very accommodating with all our needs. He stayed alongside us when trekking and helped where he could. His sense of humour was pleasant to be around. Ray spoke very good English. He is such a nice guy. I would strongly recommend Ray to be your tour guide to visit Machu Picchu. Ray explained everyday what the plans were for the next day, which was reassuring what we needed to take etc

Captanjack 2023/01/012

Our 1 day tour thru the Sacred Vally with Danny was wonderful. He was very knowledgeable and able to answer all our questions in detail. I would recommend asking for him personally if you are able.

Sherry 2022/12/26

We booked the Classic Cusco to Machu Picchu tour with SAM travel which we really had a good experience. SAM travel is very responsive during the communication and cater to our changes needed. Our guide is Ray who is also an very awesome guide. He is knowledgeable, patient, humorous as well reliable, he help us take many good photos and also go extra mile to help with our request. Thanks Ray! Thanks SAM travel that gave us good memories in Peru! Highly recommend if you consider booking any tour in Cusco.

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C Clark 2023/01/20

Wow. We had such an incredible experience in Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Our guide, Dayvit, is the most knowledgeable guide we have ever had. He has such an extensive knowledge of the history and is very friendly and helpful. If you are planning a trip to Peru, I highly recommend SAM travel and be sure to request Dayvit!

Emma Dinzebach Clark 2023/01/10

2 day tour sacred valley / Machu Picchu highly recommend! David was the best tour guide. He knows an incredible amount about Incan culture and is personable and funny. He also kept us up to date on a political situation happening when we were there and was informative. Overall, this tour checks all the boxes. Thank you!

Nupur Joshi 2023/01/02

We used SAM Travel for a 2D/1N trip from Cusco to Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on Dec 25-26, 2022. The team was good with communication from the start - both Saul and Junior were very helpful and professional with answering any questions and clearing up any misunderstandings. Our guide, Miguel, was prompt, pleasant, and quite knowledgeable. We enjoyed his company and insight over the 2 day trip and recommend him to anyone booking with SAM Travel.

Xueying Chen 2022/12/20

We booked the Classic Cusco to Machu Picchu tour with SAM travel which we really had a good experience. SAM travel is very responsive during the communication and cater to our changes needed. Our guide is Ray who is also an very awesome guide. He is knowledgeable, patient, humorous as well reliable, he help us take many good photos and also go extra mile to help with our request. Thanks Ray! Thanks SAM travel that gave us good memories in Peru! Highly recommend if you consider booking any tour in Cusco.

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Cheri Buccino April 21, 2024
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Powerful! This journey tests your humanity and leaves you in awe of yourself and the beauty that Pachamama provides. April 2024 We conquered the Inca trail and it was only made possible with the help and guidance from our expert guides Jean Pierre (JP) and Jimmy. The knowledge these gentlemen shared was admired by all of our group and the envy of other trail hikers who stopped to listen. The hike has many layers of challenges including language barriers, altitude sensitivities and food specifications. The team at Sam travel exceeded the needs and went above to ensure our comforts were met. A special mention must be made to Mario, the Chef who somehow performed magic with nutritious flavourful meals to satisfy even the pickiest consumers and Francesco who was our lead porter who orchestrated the harmony that happened behind the scenes to get everything done. Nothing less than marvellous from this team. Thank you to each of the group who made our trek a remarkable experience.

BL
Bhavana Lalwani April 18, 2024
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Jose and Henry were great guides for our first time exploring machu pichu! They were very attentive and kept everything on a smooth schedule. Highly recommend!

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Ryan April 9, 2024
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The whole experience was amazing. Ray, our guide answered all of our questions and definitely had our best interest in mind the whole time. Timothy the cook made fantastic food and somehow found a way to prepare a birthday cake with no notice! Boni our head porter and his whole crew were kind, accommodating, and had such upbeat attitudes which really made the experience great!

Isabel Batteria April 17, 2024
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I spent two days with Sam Travel’s guide Raymier, who guided us through the one-day 12-km stretch of the Inca trail and then took us to Machu Picchu the next day. In my group, I was always the last one on the trail because I come from the coast and I’m not used to altitudes, and honestly I could also have prepared physically a little better. Raymier respected my pace, never rushed me, and supported me throughout the ardous trail. He had much knowledge to share. I speak Spanish, but ended up in an English tour, and Ray’s English was very good. He was funny, respectful, and versatile. He knew where to take all the best photos and patiently took photos of all of us. I would trust Sam Travel again especially if I was lucky enough to have Ray as a guide again.

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Sam Travel is a renowned local travel agency based in Cusco -Peru, recognized for its commitment to customer satisfaction, expert travel advice and personalized itineraries that meet the needs and preferences of each traveler.

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