Pisco - Discovering Peru

Travelling to Pisco

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Pisco, a pretty good destination in Peru (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Pisco and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Pisco, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Peru, here's everything to know about Pisco for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Pisco

Pisco is a small city located on the southern coast of Peru, about 225 km south of Lima. It is known for its historical past, beautiful colonial architecture, and famous grapes used to produce the eponymous Pisco brandy. The city is also a gateway to the nearby Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands, which are famous for their wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and dolphins, as well as geological formations like the Candelabro. Other attractions in and around Pisco include beautiful beaches, archaeological sites, and various outdoor activities such as sandboarding and kite surfing.

What to visit in Pisco

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Pisco, Peru: 1. Paracas National Reserve: This natural reserve is located in the Paracas Peninsula, a few kilometers south of Pisco. The reserve is known for its stunning landscapes, including cliffs, beaches, and offshore islands. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, penguins, and flamingos.
2. Islas Ballestas: This group of small islands is located off the coast of Paracas and is a popular destination for boat tours. Visitors can see a variety of marine animals, including sea lions, penguins, and dolphins. The islands are also known for their birdlife, including pelicans, cormorants, and boobies.
3. Candelabra Geoglyph: This giant geoglyph is located on the side of a hill in Paracas National Reserve and is a popular sightseeing spot. The purpose and origins of the geoglyph, which measures 595 feet tall and 167 feet wide, are not completely understood, but it is believed to be pre-Columbian in origin.
4. Tambo Colorado: This Inca archaeological site is located near Pisco and offers visitors a glimpse into Inca architecture and culture. The site features a temple, residential buildings, and storage rooms, all constructed with distinct red and white adobe walls.
5. Plaza de Armas: This central square in Pisco is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. The square features a colonial-era cathedral, government buildings, and restaurants.
Hope this helps you plan your trip to Pisco! Let me know if you have any other questions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Peru, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Pisco.

When to go on holiday to Pisco

The best time to visit Pisco, Peru is during the summer months from December to March when the weather is typically warm and dry. The winter months from June to September can be cool and foggy, which may limit certain outdoor activities. However, if you are interested in whale watching, the best time to go is from July to October when the Southern Right Whales migrate to the coast of Pisco.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Pisco

There are several ways to get to Pisco, Peru depending on where you are coming from. Here are some options: 1. By Air: The closest airport to Pisco is the Pisco International Airport (PIO), which has regular flights from Lima. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to get to Pisco.
2. By Bus: You can catch a bus from Lima to Pisco, which takes around 4-5 hours. Several bus companies operate on this route such as Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, PeruBus, and Soyuz, to name a few. 3. By Car: You can rent a car and drive from Lima to Pisco. The journey takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, it's always best to book your tickets in advance and plan your travel accordingly.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Pisco, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Pisco

Sure, here are some typical foods from Pisco, Peru: 1. Ceviche: This is a popular seafood dish and perhaps one of the most well-known Peruvian dishes. It typically consists of raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices, such as lime or lemon, and seasoned with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.
2. Parrillada: This is a type of grilled meat platter that is very popular in Pisco and throughout Peru. It typically includes a variety of meats, such as beef, chicken, and pork, as well as sides like corn, potato, and plantains.
3. Arroz con Mariscos: This is a rice dish that is cooked with seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and mussels, and seasoned with saffron and other spices.
4. Lomo Saltado: This is a stir-fry dish that is made with strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and French fries. It is typically seasoned with soy sauce, vinegar, and spices.
5. Cochina: This is a traditional Peruvian dish made with roasted pork, which is marinated in garlic, cumin, and vinegar, and served with a spicy salsa made from rocoto peppers. I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Peru here.

Is Pisco an expensive destination for tourists?

Pisco, Peru can be somewhat expensive for tourists, particularly in terms of accommodation and dining options. However, it is not as expensive as some other popular tourist destinations in Peru, such as Lima or Cusco. The cost of visiting Pisco will also depend on your travel style and preferences. If you opt for more budget-friendly options such as staying in hostels or eating at local markets, you can save some money. Additionally, if you travel during the low season, typically from May to September, you can often find lower prices on accommodations and tour packages.

Where to find accomodation in Pisco

In Pisco, Peru, the best areas to find accommodation would be either in the city center or along the coast. In the city center, you'll be within walking distance of main attractions such as the Plaza de Armas, the Municipal Museum, and the San Clemente Church. Meanwhile, staying along the coast will give you easy access to various beach resorts and water activities, plus the Paracas National Reserve is also just a short drive away. Some of the popular coastal areas to stay in Pisco include San Andrés, Paracas, and El Chaco.
You can check hotel prices at Pisco here:
Booking.com

Is Pisco a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Pisco is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it is still important to exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, keep an eye on your belongings while in crowded areas, and use licensed taxis. It's also a good idea to research any potential risks or scams in the area before your trip and to follow any safety advice given by your accommodation or tour operator. Overall, Pisco is a charming city known for its beach and cultural attractions, and it's usually welcoming and hospitable to visitors.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Peru here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Pisco.

What type of travelers will enjoy Pisco the most?

Pisco, Peru is a great destination for a variety of travelers. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy the charming town of Pisco and its nearby beaches such as Paracas and the Ballestas Islands. Young people looking for fun can enjoy the nightlife in Pisco or head to nearby Huacachina to go sandboarding and enjoy the desert scenery. Families can enjoy activities such as boat tours to the Ballestas Islands and exploring the Paracas National Reserve which is home to diverse wildlife and geological formations. Overall, Pisco is a versatile destination that has something to offer for everyone.

How to get around Pisco

In Pisco, you can use different types of transportation to move around the city. The most common ones are taxis, mototaxis, and colectivos (shared vans). Buses are also available for longer distances. It's recommended to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting into a taxi or mototaxi, and to be aware of your surroundings while using colectivos or buses. Walking or cycling can also be an option for short distances and exploring the city at a leisurely pace.

What to see around Pisco

Certainly, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Pisco, Peru: 1. Paracas National Reserve: This protected area is home to unique flora and fauna species, as well as stunning red sand beaches and rock formations.
2. Ballestas Islands: Known as the "Poor Man's Galapagos," this group of islands is a haven for sea lions, penguins, and various bird species.
3. Huacachina Oasis: This small desert oasis is home to sand dunes, palm trees, and a picturesque lagoon. Visitors can opt for a dune buggy ride or try sandboarding.
4. Tambo Colorado: This well-preserved Inca ruins site features colorful adobe walls and architectural features in the Pisco River Valley.
5. San Pedro de Huacarpana: This colonial-era church dates back to the 16th century and is a fine example of Baroque architecture. I hope these suggestions help you plan an enjoyable day trip from Pisco!
For every travel information about Peru you can click here.

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