If you’re not part of a tour and want to make your own way to Pisac then getting there couldn’t be easier. Here’s how:

Taxi to Pisac

Getting a Taxi to Pisac from Cusco is quite easy, and although it’s by far the most expensive way of getting there, it doesn’t cost the earth. Expect to pay around 40 soles in a taxi which is about $13. There are also collectivo taxis which are essentially minivans that set off as soon as they are full. These are very inexpensive and cost around 5 soles. In a taxi the journey should take around 40 minutes.

Bus to Pisac

The cheapest way of reaching Pisac from Cusco is by bus (currently 2.40 soles). The buses set off around every 10 or 15 minutes and are usually full of locals and is therefore the best way of traveling if you want to fully immerse yourself in Peruvian culture. There are also two bus stations in Cusco that serve Pisac. One route goes to Urubamba via Pisac, and the other route goes to Calca via Pisac. The bus usually takes around 50 minutes.

You’ve probably figured out by now that if you want to visit Machu Picchu then you need to go via Cusco, the original capital of the Incas and gateway to The sacred Valley and other Inca Monuments.

There are several ways you can travel to Machu Picchu from Cusco; here are the most common:

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you’re feeling fit and adventurous then the best way to visit Machu Picchu is by the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is one of the most famous hiking treks in the world and will take you on a 4 day trek through some of the most breath taking scenery in the world. However, be warned, you usually have to book the Inca Trail at least 3 months in advance.

Train to Machu Picchu

If you’re short of time or just want to get there in the most comfortable way possible then the best method is to take the train. Trains run several times a day between Cusco and Aguas Calientes (Mauchu Picchu village) and usually take between 3 and 4 hours. If you’re taking the train during peak travel season (June-August) then it’s usually a good idea to book your seat several days in advance.

Alternative Inca Trails to Machu Picchu

If you’re not able to book on the Inca Trail, or just fancy doing something a little different then there are several other treks that finish at Machu Picchu. The most well known is the Salkantay Trek and speaking from personal experience I can say that this trek is absolutely incredible and I highly recommend it.

By Car

Several travel agencies in Cusco offer one-day visits to Machu Picchu by car. I’m not entirely sure how this works because it’s currently impossible to drive 100% of the way there by car. My guess is that they take you to Ollantaytambo by car and then you go the rest of the way by train.

What’s special about San Blas?

San Blas is characterized by it’s narrow cobbled stoned streets, colonial architecture and abundance of unique artisan stores, galleries and workshops. There are also several high quality restaurants and hotels in the San Blas area making it a popular place for tourists to stay in.

San Blas also provides some great views over the city of Cusco.

Although an interesting place, there are not many attractions in San Blas and thrill seekers will certainly find it a little boring. But if you’re the kind of person that enjoys wandering around and admiring interesting and unique architecture, or arts and crafts, then you will almost certainly enjoy your time in San Blas.

Getting to San Blas

The San Blas district is in central Cusco, less than a 5 minute walk north of the main Plaza de Armas. If you head up Triunfo and past the Inca Wall that features the famous 12 sided stone, you will find yourself in San Blas. Reaching the centre of San Blas involves walking up some steep narrow streets so take it easy, particularly if you’ve only just arrived in Cusco and are still adjusting to the altitude.

If you’re heading to San Blas straight from the airport then get a taxi to the heart of San Blas. It’s about a 15-20 minutes journey by car.

Things to see in San Blas

Iglesia de San Blas
Open Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, Sundays and holidays 10am – 6pm.

Apart from the stores and workshops, the main attraction is the church. This is the oldest parish church in Cusco and definitely worth a visit. The Cusco tourist ticket allows you entry to this church. Inside you will find several great works of Spanish art, as well an intricately carved pulpit that was carved by indigenous artisans.

Best hotel in San Blas

The best hotel in San Blas is probably Casa San Blas, a boutique hotel with fairly reasonable prices. This hotel is usually very highly rated on most of the travel review sites.

http://www.casasanblas.com/

Best Hostel in San Blas

The best travellers Hostel in San Blas in almost certainly Casa de la Gringa which always seems to attract some of the most interesting and friendly travellers and backpackers you will meet in Cusco.

http://www.casadelagringa.com/

Here are a few other maps for those looking for something online

Cusco on Google maps

View Larger Map

Cusco Tourist Map

Map of central cusco

Map of Cusco & Surrounding Area

Area surrounding Cuzco