Pisac Inca ruins hike for families is the ultimate way to experience the Sacred Valley with your loved ones. This adventure lets you step off the beaten path and dive deep into the history, culture, and natural beauty of one of Peru’s most iconic regions. Imagine starting your day at the ancient ruins of Pisac, following the original Inca Trail down to the vibrant town below, and ending your journey with colorful markets, alpacas, and stunning views—all while making memories with your kids that will last a lifetime.
I’ve been lucky enough to travel to some incredible places, but there’s nothing quite like sharing an adventure with my daughter. Running Pie Experiences has given me the chance to explore the world, but this time, I wanted to slow down, step off the beaten path, and show her what makes this part of the Sacred Valley so special. So, we laced up our boots, grabbed our day packs, and set out to explore the Pisac Inca ruins hike for families, following the original Inca Trail that winds down from the archaeological site all the way to the town below.
Sunrise Over the Sacred Valley: The Perfect Start to a Pisac Inca Ruins Hike for Families
We started early, as the sun was just beginning to rise over the mountains. The air was crisp, and the light was soft, turning the terraces of Pisac into a patchwork of gold and green. I’d seen it before, but seeing it through my daughter’s eyes made it feel brand new. She couldn’t stop smiling as we climbed up to the ruins, pointing out every tiny flower and rock, bouncing with excitement.
Standing there, at the top, with the valley stretching out below us, I felt a sense of peace and gratitude. “Mom, it’s like we’re on top of the world!” she said, and she was right. In that moment, we were. I’ve always loved this view, but sharing it with her was something else entirely—it made all the early mornings and long days worth it.
Alpacas and Ancient Stones: A Highlight of the Pisac Inca Ruins Hike for Families
As we wandered through the ruins, we stumbled upon a small herd of alpacas grazing near the terraces. My daughter’s face lit up like I’d never seen before. She ran over, and soon she was surrounded by these curious, fluffy creatures. They were gentle, a little shy, and completely enchanting. Watching her giggle as she fed them handfuls of grass, I realized that this was the kind of magic I wanted her to experience—the kind of travel that’s not just about seeing, but about feeling.
After a little time playing with the alpacas, we continued exploring the ruins. Pisac is a vast archaeological site, much larger than many realize. It’s divided into different sectors, each with its own unique story. We started at Intihuatana, the religious center where a stone pillar served as a solar clock, marking the solstices. The precision of Incan engineering never ceases to amaze me, and my daughter was fascinated by how the Incas could track time with just a stone and the sun.
From there, we made our way to Q’allaqasa, the fortress area perched high on the cliffs. The walls are sturdy, imposing, and you can imagine warriors standing guard, looking out over the valley below. She loved imagining it as a castle, with knights defending their kingdom.
The Hidden Beauty of the Original Inca Trail: A Must for Any Pisac Inca Ruins Hike for Families
But the true magic began when we left the main ruins and stepped onto the original Inca Trail, the path that descends from the archaeological site down to the town of Pisac. This Pisac Inca ruins hike for families is a hidden gem, untouched by the usual crowds. It winds its way through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the valley, the terraces, and the villages scattered below.
The hike covers approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make to take in the scenery (or play with alpacas!). It’s a moderate trek, perfect for families with children who can handle a few hours of walking on well-trodden paths. Along the way, you’ll descend through ancient terraces, pass by sacred sites, and enjoy panoramic views that stretch across the Sacred Valley.
There’s a quiet beauty to this trail, a kind of serenity that makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time. As we walked, the only sounds were the crunch of our boots on the path, the occasional call of a bird, and the gentle breeze rustling through the eucalyptus trees. It was just us, the trail, and the history beneath our feet. My daughter held my hand as we made our way down, and I could see how she was soaking it all in—the vastness of the landscape, the quiet strength of the mountains, the sense of being part of something so much bigger.
The Incan Cemetery: Awe and Reflection on the Pisac Inca Ruins Hike for Families
As we continued along the trail, we reached the T’antana Marka, one of the largest Incan cemeteries ever discovered. It’s carved into the cliffs, with hundreds of small holes where the Incas once placed their dead, mummified and buried with treasures for the afterlife. Seeing this part of the ruins was a powerful moment, even for my daughter. She stood quietly, taking it all in, asking me why they were buried on the cliffs. I explained how the Incas believed the higher they were, the closer they’d be to their gods.
It was a moment of awe and reflection. The past felt close, almost tangible, and I could see how it stirred something in her—a sense of curiosity and respect for the people who lived here so long ago.
Descending Into the Heart of Pisac: The Market Awaits After the Pisac Inca Ruins Hike for Families
By the time we reached the town of Pisac, the sun was high, and the market was buzzing with life. I’ve been to markets all over South America, but there’s something special about this one. Maybe it’s the colors—the bright woven blankets, the painted pottery, the silver jewelry that sparkles in the sun. Or maybe it’s the people, the way they laugh and call out to each other, the way they welcome you in.
For my daughter, it was like stepping into another world. She darted from stall to stall, eyes wide with wonder, asking about everything she saw. We stopped at a booth where a woman was weaving on a traditional loom, and she was captivated. The woman smiled and explained how she dyes the alpaca wool using plants, roots, and even bugs. “Can we buy one, Mom?” she asked, holding up a small, colorful bracelet. “Of course,” I said, “but remember to say ‘thank you’ in Quechua.” She did, and the woman beamed. It was a small moment, but one that made my heart swell with pride.
Why This Pisac Inca Ruins Hike for Families is Perfect
I know there are easier ways to see Pisac, but I chose this hike for a reason. I wanted my daughter to see more than just the ruins. I wanted her to understand them, to feel the history under her feet, to see the faces of the people who keep these traditions alive. That’s what makes this Pisac Inca ruins hike for families so special—it’s more than just a walk. It’s a chance to connect, with the past, with the place, and with each other.
Deep Exploration Without the Crowds: Most tours just touch on the highlights, but this Pisac Inca ruins hike for families lets you see Pisac in its entirety. You walk through the terraces, the neighborhoods, the sacred spaces—all at your own pace.
A Kid-Friendly Adventure: It’s not too challenging, but it’s exciting enough to keep kids engaged. My daughter loved every minute of it, and that’s saying something.
A Cultural Lesson for All Ages: From the terraces to the market, it’s a living history lesson. She learned so much, and so did I.
The Perfect Warm-Up for Bigger Adventures: If you’re planning to tackle a longer trek, like the Inca Trail, this Pisac Inca ruins hike for families is the perfect way to acclimate and get a taste of what’s to come.
A Day We’ll Never Forget : We ended the day sitting at a café in the plaza, sharing a cold drink and a plate of empanadas, watching the market wind down. My daughter’s cheeks were pink from the sun, and she was still talking a mile a minute about everything she’d seen. “Can we do this again?” she asked, and I knew she meant it. “Yes,” I said, “as many times as you want.”
This is why I do what I do—why I started Pie Experiences. To create moments like this, moments that go beyond just seeing the sights, that connect us to a place, to its people, and to each other. This Pisac Inca ruins hike for families was everything I hoped it would be, and more. And I can’t wait to share it with more families, more kids, more explorers who want to see the world not just with their eyes, but with their hearts.
So if you’re looking for the perfect family adventure in the Sacred Valley, pack your bags, grab your kids, and come walk with us through Pisac. Because sometimes, the best way to discover the world is to take it one step at a time, together.
What Else to Do From Pisac After Your Pisac Inca Ruins Hike for Families
If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Pisac, there are plenty of other experiences that families will love:
- Visit the Potato Park (Parque de la Papa): Just a short drive from Pisac, this unique conservation area celebrates the incredible diversity of native potatoes and the traditional farming practices of local communities. It’s a great way to learn about Andean agriculture, and kids will love seeing (and tasting) the colorful variety of potatoes.
- Attend a Sound Workshop at Taller Sonidos del Ande: Dive into the traditional music of the Andes with hands-on workshops where you and your kids can learn to play instruments like pan flutes and drums, and discover the sounds that echo through the mountains. It’s an engaging way to connect with the culture through rhythm and melody.
- Explore the Pisac Handicraft Market: Beyond your trek, the market is a treasure trove of local crafts. You’ll find handmade jewelry, vibrant textiles, and unique ceramics. Take your time to wander and support the artisans who bring these traditional skills to life.
Packing List for Your Pisac Inca Ruins Hike for Families
To make sure you’re fully prepared for this adventure, here’s a handy packing list:
- Comfortable hiking shoes: The terrain can be uneven, so make sure everyone has sturdy footwear.
- Layers of clothing: The temperature can change quickly, so bring light layers that you can add or remove as needed.
- Sun protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, especially for the higher altitudes.
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is key. Consider bringing a reusable bottle to reduce waste.
- Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits make great on-the-go snacks for kids and adults alike.
- Small backpack: Something easy to carry, but big enough to hold essentials like snacks, water, and an extra jacket.
- Camera or phone: You’ll want to capture the stunning views and special moments along the way.
- Cash: Many vendors in the market prefer cash, especially for small purchases.
Book Your One Day Hike: Pisac Trek & Ollantaytambo Adventure Today
Ready to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones? Discover the hidden gems of the Sacred Valley with our One Day Hike: Pisac Trek & Ollantaytambo. This experience combines the beauty of the original Inca Trail through Pisac with a visit to the majestic ruins of Ollantaytambo. Walk ancient paths, explore vibrant markets, and stand where history was made—all with the guidance of local experts who will make sure your family gets the most out of this extraordinary journey.
Book your adventure now and let us take care of the rest. Your perfect family day in the Sacred Valley is just a few clicks away.
