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General
How much should I budget for tips?
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Many guidebooks express that tipping is not customary or expected in Peru. We have a different approach. Though it may not be expected, tips are a special way of showing ones appreciation. We strongly encourage tipping, and feel that it is a wonderful way to support the culture and economy. Though tipping amounts vary 15% – 20% is a general rule of thumb. At Pisac Inn you can leave a tip for housekeeping in the room, and we encourage our hotel and restaurant guests to leave tips for the rest of the staff in the jar at reception that is divided equally among them. Please tip your driver and guides directly, and if you have a treatment at the spa, please leave tips at spa.
Are there any discounts available?
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We offer a discount for South American Explores Club members. Look for seasonal specials and promotion.
How far in advance should I book?
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Puede hacer una reserva en cualquier momento; generalmente, cuanto antes mejor. Quienes vienen de visita durante la temporada alta (junio a agosto) deben reservar con anticipación (4 meses o más); fuera de este periodo de alta demanda los visitantes pueden hacer reservas de último minuto.
What time zone is Peru?
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Peru is five hours behind GMT (same as EST), and daylight-savings time it not observed, so during these months (April-October), Peru is on CST.
Do I need a converter / adaptor for the electricity?
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Peru uses 220 volt, 60 cycle electricity. Travelers will require a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat type found in the US, though some facilities have been noted to use the 2 rounded prongs instead. Pisac Inn has flat and rounded prong outlets.
Can I use US dollars, or do I need local currency? What is the local currency, exchange rate, etc.?
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It is best to have local currency; however, most restaurants, hotels and other service providers readily accept US dollars as long as they don’t have any rips. They will generally give you change in local currency. The local currency is the Peruvian Soles (PEN). It is better to use local currency in markets, as you will have smaller denominations to purchase and tip with and don’t need to worry about your currency looking pristine (ripped Soles are common and readily accepted).
See the Currency Converter for exchange rates http://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/convert/?Amount=1&From=USD&To=PEN.
There are no banks in Pisac, they are in Cusco, mainly on the main street (Avenida del Sol). It is best to change money at official money exchanges “casa de cambio” rather than on the street, or the bank for a better exchange rate. There are many places to change your money (dollars) into soles in Pisac. In Cusco you will get a slightly better exchange rate, and there are seval options near the main plaza. Please note that dollars need to be in perfect condition to be accepted; ripped or worn bills will not be exchanged, and if accepted, it will be for a much lower exchange rate. You can also change Euros or English pounds although sometimes the rates are not very good. Traveller’s checks are more difficult to exchange, and not recommendable.
Should I bring cash or Travelers checks? Are ATMs available? Can I use credit cards?
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Most travelers bring US cash with them and withdraw from ATMs as they need it along they way. ATMs are readily available in the larger towns and cities. Pisac has several ATM machines where travelers can withdraw US dollars or local currency at fair exchange rates. Make sure you have your PIN number, as dealing with these issues in Cusco is time consuming. Sometimes the signal in Pisac goes down and the ATM’s don’t work. Traveler’s checks are fine, but they can be more difficult to exchange and you will usually receive a poorer rate or be charged an additional fee. Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants, hotels and stores, and sometimes in smaller establishments they may charge an additional percentage (3 – 6%). Although it is helpful to bring a credit card along for emergencies, don’t count on using it for most purchases. You may want to inform your bank and credit card company that you will be travelling to Peru.
Can I use my cell phone?
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Check with your cell phone provider. Each company is different and they can give you the most up-to-date information.
Do I need a visa/passport?
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A valid passport is required to enter and depart Peru. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. Passport holders from USA, Canada, South America, EU countries, and Mexico do not need a visa, but it is your responsibility to consult the Peruvian Embassy in your country for up to date information on visas required for Peru. Entry requirements change with surprising frequency. You will receive a tourist card (Tarjeta Andina de Migración TAM, or Andean Migration Card) from Peruvian Immigration upon arrival to Peru stating the length of approved stay. Keep the tourist card with you as it exonerates you from paying the 18% tax in hotels in Peru and you will need to show it upon leaving the country.
Is travel insurance recommended?
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We highly recommend travel insurance that covers theft, loss, accidents, illness, delays, cancellation, medical expenses, evacuation, and baggage. World Nomads is a great company.
Is internet available? Phone services?
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Internet is readily available in most parts of Peru. Pisac Inn offers free Wi-Fi for hotel guests. There are also several Internet cafes in Pisac. There are calling centers in all areas of Peru. Pisac Inn does not have phone service in the rooms, but you can purchase a calling card to use at our reception, or you can use one of the several calling centers in Pisac.
Are heaters available?
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There are electric heaters in the rooms. Pisac is considerably warmer than Cusco, and due to the thick adobe walls and small rooms heat is retained. Pisac inn has down comforters, and extra blankets or hot water bottles are available upon request. It is good to bring warm lightweight layers, as the common areas of the hotel are not heated, and can be very cold especially in the months of June, July and August. We do have a fireplace in the main dining area and a heater for the inside patio area.
How safe is Peru?
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Peru has a stable government and tourism has boomed in recent years. With the added tourist dollars, the government has made a concerted effort to keep travelers and their valuables safe. There have been no terrorist attacks in Peruvian tourist areas in over a decade. Travelers should take the same common-sense precautions that they would in any major city such as not going into unfamiliar areas alone, especially at night. Pisac is very safe. Petty theft is common in cities especially in busy tourist areas such as airports, markets, and other tourist sites so be aware of your valuables and don’t leave them unattended. Monetary scams also sprout up occasionally so beware of any offers that sound too good to be true. Check out the US State Department travel advisories for the latest information at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en.html
What should I pack?
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The climate varies dramatically depending upon whether you are in the Andes, on the coast or in the rainforest. In the high elevation Andes layers are key as the temperature shifts radically, and it gets VERY COLD the minute the sun goes down or clouds roll in. Comfort is the rule and fancy clothes are not necessary. Just about anything you forget is now available in Peru, so no worries!
Travelers can visit Peru any time of the year. Dry season runs from May to November and this is typically the time that is most recommended. However, this is also the cooler time of year, with nighttime temperatures dropping to below freezing. The high season is June, July and August and are the most popular months to visit so you will encounter much larger crowds during these months. The wet season is from December to April, and you can expect showers three to four afternoons a week. For travelers that don’t mind rain and muddy trails, this time of year offers smaller crowds and greener hillsides, with wildflowers and orchids often in bloom. The shoulder seasons, April to June or September to November can often provide the best of both worlds. They typically have fewer crowds and warmer temperatures than the height of the dry season, but still tend to have relatively little rain.
When is the best time to go?
Esta página también está disponible en: Español
Travelers can visit Peru any time of the year. Dry season runs from May to November and this is typically the time that is most recommended. However, this is also the cooler time of year. Nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing at the height of the dry season. June, July and August are the most popular months to visit so you will tend to encounter much larger crowds during these months. In the wet season (December to April), you can expect showers three to four afternoons a week. For travelers that don’t mind rain and muddy trails, this time of year offers smaller crowds and greener hillsides, with wildflowers and orchids often in bloom. The shoulder seasons, April to June or September to November can often provide the best of both worlds. They typically have fewer crowds and warmer temperatures than the height of the dry season, but still tend to have relatively little rain.
What is the typical age range for travelers in Peru?
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All ages are suitable for traveling conditions in Peru. You can easily make choices that work for your needs. If you prefer hiking, there are plenty of options, and if you prefer easy driving explorations, that is easy to arrange as well.
Is Peru a good choice for solo travelers?
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Absolutely!! It is safe and easy to manage on your own. Peruvians are very warm and friendly.
Health
Helpful Hints for Unucha Spa
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Helpful Hints for Unucha Spa
Scheduling Spa Services
Please make reservations at Pisac Inn in person, by phone or by email.
- We recommend scheduling spa services in advance to ensure desired times and treatments. We accommodate last minute reservations when possible with a minimum two-hour notice required, and four hours for jacuzzi.
- Reservations for spa services must be guaranteed by payment in full at Pisac Inn at time of making reservation.
- Special requests will be attended with prior arrangements when possible, and may require additional fees.
- Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to allow time for check-in, and to shower before your treatment. Please remember, we open the door ten minutes before each appointment, so if you arrive more than ten-minutes early we will be attending another guest, or preparing for your treatment.
- Late arrivals will result in a shortened spa experience, as your treatment will conclude at the scheduled time to respect following reservations.
Hours
10 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday
Special exceptions are possible with prior arrangement and extra cost
- Unucha Spa does not attend on certain holidays and special Andean celebrations.
- We attend strictly on a reservation basis, and only open when we have a reservation; no one is at Unucha Spa to attend unless an appointment has been made at Pisac Inn.
Cancellations & Changes
There will be a 30% charge for cancellations or changes; no shows 100% charge.
- Please understand that each treatment requires several hours of preparation from collecting the plants, to heating the water, and getting the space ready.
Gratuities
Gratuities are not included in the price of treatments and are gratefully received to acknowledge good service. The typical range is 15-20% of the price of the treatment(s) and may be made in cash at Unucha Spa.
What to bring
All guests will receive a robe, towel, and bath amenities to use during your stay, and a complimentary detox herbal tea.
- Please bring drinking water, bathing suit for herbal bath, sauna and jacuzzi (not required), and something warm to wear for after the treatment. Please do not bring valuables.
Disclaimer
Hot water and sudden temperature changes can be stressful to your body. If you are pregnant or have chronic health problems, please consult your healthcare professional before your visit. The
consumption of alcoholic beverages may impair judgment and/or cause loss of consciousness and is strongly discouraged. Natural herbal water may discolor some jewelry and stain some fabrics. Unucha Spa will not be held responsible for injuries or loss of personal belongings.
How to find Unucha Spa
Unucha Spa is located five minutes from Pisac in the small town of Taray.
- It is a twenty-minute walk from Pisac, a five-minute motor taxi drive, or a three-minute taxi drive.
- Pisac Inn can assist making transportation arrangements; cost not included.
- It is a red door in the rock wall on the main plaza at the motor taxi drop off; there is no sign and no bell.
- The door will be opened ten minutes before your scheduled appointment; Unucha Spa only opens and attends on a reservation basis, which means there is no one available to attend if a reservation has not been made.
What makes Unucha Spa unique?
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What makes Unucha Spa unique?
Here are few things we have thought of to help you better understand our distinct spa concept, and how to be prepared.
Unucha Spa is exclusive
Unucha offers a personalized and intimate space for each reservation. Reservations do not overlap, ensuring that each guest has exclusive use of the space. This affords privacy and security for each treatment offered at Unucha Spa.
We ask that you not bring guests that are not receiving a treatment, and remind you that once your treatment is over, we need to prepare the space for the next reservation, and in this way ensure that each guest receives the same exclusive, private experience./em>
Unucha Spa is natural
Unucha is an outdoor open-air spa, with spectacular views in a natural setting, providing a gentle space that allows one to connect to oneself and to nature. We use organic massage oil, and prepare each treatment with plants locally and sustainably harvested in the moment.
Please note that only the massage room and sauna are fully enclosed; we recommend bringing warm clothes fro after treatments.
Unucha Spa is enchanting
Unucha Spa is small and charming, providing a quality experience. Please understand that our facility can only accommodate a few reservations per day. We highly recommend making a reservation far in advance to assure that you are able to get a reservation. Oftentimes we are fully booked.
Part of the charm of being in a small town in the Andes comes with several factors that may prevent us from being able to take a reservation, and sometimes we may even have to cancel a reservation in the event of loss of electricity, problems with water systems, and any numbers of unforeseen events. We thank you for your understanding. We will always reimburse your money if we are unable to attend a confirmed reservation.
Stomach problems?
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It is very common to experience stomach irregularities. The best way to avoid this is by drinking only bottled water, and avoiding fruit or vegetables that have not been peeled or properly cleaned when not eating in a nicer level restaurant. We suggest avoiding fried foods where the oil may be used over and over. Try to eat in places that provide clean meal preparation. Even if you are cautious it is common to have problems all the same. In this case, we can help you with herbal tea remedies of the area, or depending on your situation, help you seek medical help. Many visitors use Pepto-Bismol and bring a dose of Cipro just in case!
Is the water safe to drink?
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The tap water is not safe to drink in Peru. Bottled water is readily available for purchase. Don’t forget to use bottled water when brushing your teeth. In many places ice is not always made with boiled or bottled water. Order your beverages without ice (“sin hielo”). At Pisac Inn we use bottled water for ice, and we have a large container of bottled water that you can fill up your personal water bottle with for a small fee to help prevent so much trash from plastic bottles.
What immunizations are recommended / required?
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No immunizations are currently required for visiting Peru. For the most current information, please consult your doctor and/or check the Center for Disease Control web-site at www.cdc.gov.
Is travel insurance recommended?
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We highly recommend travel insurance that covers theft, loss, accidents, illness, delays, cancellation, medical expenses, evacuation, and baggage. World Nomads is a great company.
How concerned should I be about the altitude?
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Altitude affects each traveler differently and until you have visited an area with high altitude, it is impossible to predict how your body will react. For this reason, Pisac is ideal as a base because of the lower altitude. Commonly, travelers report mild altitude symptoms such as fatigue, headache, or light-headedness during their first day or two at elevation. Severe altitude sickness is rare. In this case, the best treatment is to go down in elevation as soon as possible. Many severe cases of altitude sickness are the result of a pre-existing condition that is aggravated by the altitude. It is important to ask your doctor whether or not travel to high altitude is advised, especially if you have a pre-existing heart or lung condition such as high blood pressure, asthma, angina, etc. You might also want to ask your doctor about prescription Diamox, a diuretic that many travelers swear by to help them adjust to the altitude more readily. Drinking lots of water and resting the first day helps tremendously. Coca tea is very helpful. Avoid alcohol in excess.
Is medical assistance available if I have problems?
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There is a fully equipped mini hospital in Pisac with a doctor on call 24 hours a day. There are several drug stores in the town of Pisac that have medications. If you have a problem that cannot be attended to in Pisac, they will transfer you to Cusco where there are many recommended medical services with specialists on call. Pisac Inn is affiliated with a top clinic in Cusco, and they will send medical professionals for a reasonable fee.
Services
Helpful Hints for Unucha Spa
Esta página también está disponible en: Español
Helpful Hints for Unucha Spa
Scheduling Spa Services
Please make reservations at Pisac Inn in person, by phone or by email.
- We recommend scheduling spa services in advance to ensure desired times and treatments. We accommodate last minute reservations when possible with a minimum two-hour notice required, and four hours for jacuzzi.
- Reservations for spa services must be guaranteed by payment in full at Pisac Inn at time of making reservation.
- Special requests will be attended with prior arrangements when possible, and may require additional fees.
- Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to allow time for check-in, and to shower before your treatment. Please remember, we open the door ten minutes before each appointment, so if you arrive more than ten-minutes early we will be attending another guest, or preparing for your treatment.
- Late arrivals will result in a shortened spa experience, as your treatment will conclude at the scheduled time to respect following reservations.
Hours
10 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday
Special exceptions are possible with prior arrangement and extra cost
- Unucha Spa does not attend on certain holidays and special Andean celebrations.
- We attend strictly on a reservation basis, and only open when we have a reservation; no one is at Unucha Spa to attend unless an appointment has been made at Pisac Inn.
Cancellations & Changes
There will be a 30% charge for cancellations or changes; no shows 100% charge.
- Please understand that each treatment requires several hours of preparation from collecting the plants, to heating the water, and getting the space ready.
Gratuities
Gratuities are not included in the price of treatments and are gratefully received to acknowledge good service. The typical range is 15-20% of the price of the treatment(s) and may be made in cash at Unucha Spa.
What to bring
All guests will receive a robe, towel, and bath amenities to use during your stay, and a complimentary detox herbal tea.
- Please bring drinking water, bathing suit for herbal bath, sauna and jacuzzi (not required), and something warm to wear for after the treatment. Please do not bring valuables.
Disclaimer
Hot water and sudden temperature changes can be stressful to your body. If you are pregnant or have chronic health problems, please consult your healthcare professional before your visit. The
consumption of alcoholic beverages may impair judgment and/or cause loss of consciousness and is strongly discouraged. Natural herbal water may discolor some jewelry and stain some fabrics. Unucha Spa will not be held responsible for injuries or loss of personal belongings.
How to find Unucha Spa
Unucha Spa is located five minutes from Pisac in the small town of Taray.
- It is a twenty-minute walk from Pisac, a five-minute motor taxi drive, or a three-minute taxi drive.
- Pisac Inn can assist making transportation arrangements; cost not included.
- It is a red door in the rock wall on the main plaza at the motor taxi drop off; there is no sign and no bell.
- The door will be opened ten minutes before your scheduled appointment; Unucha Spa only opens and attends on a reservation basis, which means there is no one available to attend if a reservation has not been made.
What makes Unucha Spa unique?
Esta página también está disponible en: Español
What makes Unucha Spa unique?
Here are few things we have thought of to help you better understand our distinct spa concept, and how to be prepared.
Unucha Spa is exclusive
Unucha offers a personalized and intimate space for each reservation. Reservations do not overlap, ensuring that each guest has exclusive use of the space. This affords privacy and security for each treatment offered at Unucha Spa.
We ask that you not bring guests that are not receiving a treatment, and remind you that once your treatment is over, we need to prepare the space for the next reservation, and in this way ensure that each guest receives the same exclusive, private experience./em>
Unucha Spa is natural
Unucha is an outdoor open-air spa, with spectacular views in a natural setting, providing a gentle space that allows one to connect to oneself and to nature. We use organic massage oil, and prepare each treatment with plants locally and sustainably harvested in the moment.
Please note that only the massage room and sauna are fully enclosed; we recommend bringing warm clothes fro after treatments.
Unucha Spa is enchanting
Unucha Spa is small and charming, providing a quality experience. Please understand that our facility can only accommodate a few reservations per day. We highly recommend making a reservation far in advance to assure that you are able to get a reservation. Oftentimes we are fully booked.
Part of the charm of being in a small town in the Andes comes with several factors that may prevent us from being able to take a reservation, and sometimes we may even have to cancel a reservation in the event of loss of electricity, problems with water systems, and any numbers of unforeseen events. We thank you for your understanding. We will always reimburse your money if we are unable to attend a confirmed reservation.
Is internet available? Phone services?
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Internet is readily available in most parts of Peru. Pisac Inn offers free Wi-Fi for hotel guests. There are also several Internet cafes in Pisac. There are calling centers in all areas of Peru. Pisac Inn does not have phone service in the rooms, but you can purchase a calling card to use at our reception, or you can use one of the several calling centers in Pisac.
Staff
What is the staff like?
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Pisac Inn’s staff is very attentive and friendly, and they enjoy taking care of your needs as travelers. Most speak basic English, and they all treat our guests like friends, going out of their way to make you feel comfortable and at home.
Children
Is traveling in Peru suitable for kids?
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Absolutely! We feel that traveling with children and exposing them to different cultures is an enriching and invaluable experience. They will absorb all of the subtle details, which will influence their formation for life. Peruvians love children. You will find that many doors will be opened when traveling with children and you will receive special attention.
Weather
Are heaters available?
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There are electric heaters in the rooms. Pisac is considerably warmer than Cusco, and due to the thick adobe walls and small rooms heat is retained. Pisac inn has down comforters, and extra blankets or hot water bottles are available upon request. It is good to bring warm lightweight layers, as the common areas of the hotel are not heated, and can be very cold especially in the months of June, July and August. We do have a fireplace in the main dining area and a heater for the inside patio area.
What should I pack?
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The climate varies dramatically depending upon whether you are in the Andes, on the coast or in the rainforest. In the high elevation Andes layers are key as the temperature shifts radically, and it gets VERY COLD the minute the sun goes down or clouds roll in. Comfort is the rule and fancy clothes are not necessary. Just about anything you forget is now available in Peru, so no worries!
Travelers can visit Peru any time of the year. Dry season runs from May to November and this is typically the time that is most recommended. However, this is also the cooler time of year, with nighttime temperatures dropping to below freezing. The high season is June, July and August and are the most popular months to visit so you will encounter much larger crowds during these months. The wet season is from December to April, and you can expect showers three to four afternoons a week. For travelers that don’t mind rain and muddy trails, this time of year offers smaller crowds and greener hillsides, with wildflowers and orchids often in bloom. The shoulder seasons, April to June or September to November can often provide the best of both worlds. They typically have fewer crowds and warmer temperatures than the height of the dry season, but still tend to have relatively little rain.
When is the best time to go?
Esta página también está disponible en: Español
Travelers can visit Peru any time of the year. Dry season runs from May to November and this is typically the time that is most recommended. However, this is also the cooler time of year. Nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing at the height of the dry season. June, July and August are the most popular months to visit so you will tend to encounter much larger crowds during these months. In the wet season (December to April), you can expect showers three to four afternoons a week. For travelers that don’t mind rain and muddy trails, this time of year offers smaller crowds and greener hillsides, with wildflowers and orchids often in bloom. The shoulder seasons, April to June or September to November can often provide the best of both worlds. They typically have fewer crowds and warmer temperatures than the height of the dry season, but still tend to have relatively little rain.
Transportation
How do I get to the hotel from the airport when I arrive?
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We can arrange an airport transfer,/strong> for you with previous notice. There is also a transportation desk inside the airport that can help you arrange an official taxi when you arrive, or there are many local taxis offering their services that you can hire directly. The last option is to catch a taxi to the local bus station, and take the local bus to Pisac.
What type of transportation is available?
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Cusco and the Sacred Valley offer several transportation options. It depends on what level of service you have in mind, and each option has its benefits. There are comfortable, private, tourist level cars, vans and buses that will have a much higher cost, and will need to be reserved before arrival. This service level is the most safe, reliable and flexible with extremely attentive service from your personal driver. You can leave your belongings in the vehicle, stop when you need to, and move at your preferred pace.
The local taxis are a middle range option, and are also generally safe, reliable, friendly and flexible. This service can be arranged upon arrival with the assistance of our staff. You can also make your own arrangements directly with local taxis if you prefer.
There are also many public buses readily available with no schedule. This is the most inexpensive transportation mode, but it is quite crowded, will not stop for photos, slow down or attend to any personal needs.
Local motor taxis are an easy way to get around Pisac and the area.
What types of planes are used for internal flights?
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Most internal flights use 727s or similar size jet planes with a capacity of 80–120 passengers. Manu tours use smaller 10–15 passenger propeller planes typically.
For booking international and domestic flights we recommend using your preferred travel agent from your country of destination. Prices are comparable, and it is generally easier from there.
Is it easy to book international and domestic flights in Peru?
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For booking international and domestic flights we recommend using your preferred travel agent from your country of destination. Prices are comparable, and it is generally easier from there.
Meals
Meals available in Pisac?
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Pisac Inn has an exceptional restaurant named Cuchara de Palo, The Wooden Spoon. It is located in the hotel, open from 7:30 am – 11 am for breakfast, and from noon to 8:30pm for lunch and dinner for our hotel guests, and also for guests not staying at Pisac Inn. Cuchara de Palo celebrates the wealth of Peruvian Cuisine, and is dedicated to organic, locally grown and fresh ingredients; inspired by the beautiful array of native Andean produce.
Our chef offers traditional Peruvian, creative Novo Andean and international dishes.
Peru’s ancient agrarian tradition resulted in an abundant diversity of products, flavors, colors and aromas that have won special recognition for Peruvian Culinary Art as one of the most exquisite and sophisticated of the planet. You can also enjoy Pisac Inn’s sidewalk café and upstairs balcony, and do not miss the Pisco Sour– one of our specialties! Thin crust Italian style pizza prepared in our wood-burning oven is served with previous notice. There are a wide variety of restaurants in Pisac for those who prefer to dine outside of Pisac Inn.
What type of food is typical of Peru?
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Staple foods in the highlands include potatoes, quinoa, fava beans, lupin beans, corn, and for special occasion’s guinea pig, hen, pork and lamb dishes are prepared. The trout is exceptional. There are a wide variety of aromatic herbs and spicy peppers used in many dishes and sauces. In jungle areas, fresh fruits, cocoa, coffee, fried plantains, and other vegetables are also common. You can find many of these products in the highlands due to proximity of the rainforest. Rice is very common, and is grown on the coast. Though vegetarians can be easily accommodated in all areas, options typically leave out the meat rather than adding vegetarian mainstays such as tofu, beans, or nuts, unless you go to a vegetarian restaurant, or a finer restaurant with vegetarian options.
Food and Drink: Peruvian Cuisine is renown worldwide, and in Cusco and the Sacred Valley there are many local, tourist, and fine dining restaurants to explore. We suggest you try the typical dishes of Peru, such as the local delicacy of roasted guinea pig, or ceviche, which is raw fish, cooked in lemon. Also explore the booming gourmet Novo Andean cuisine. For Peruvian fast food try “pollo a la brasa”, chicken roasted in a firewood oven served with french fries. There are plenty of pizza and pasta restaurants as well. Popular drinks here are coca tea made from the coca leaf, Inca Kola (soft drink made with lemon grass – only found in Peru!), Pisco Sour (a mix of Pisco, egg whites, lemon, sugar, cinnamon and ice) and chicha (alcoholic drink made from corn). We offer many Peruvian dishes at our restaurant, Cuchara de Palo.
Accomodations
Are heaters available?
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There are electric heaters in the rooms. Pisac is considerably warmer than Cusco, and due to the thick adobe walls and small rooms heat is retained. Pisac inn has down comforters, and extra blankets or hot water bottles are available upon request. It is good to bring warm lightweight layers, as the common areas of the hotel are not heated, and can be very cold especially in the months of June, July and August. We do have a fireplace in the main dining area and a heater for the inside patio area.
What are the accommodations like?
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Pisac Inn is small and charming, offering comfortable accommodations with 11 guest rooms all with private baths. Pisac Inn’s atmosphere and décor celebrates the local Andean culture, and affords romantic old world flair with beautiful common areas. It can best be compared to a small bed and breakfast or a three star boutique hotel, rather than international chain hotels. It is ideally located on the historic plaza.
The Cusco area offers a wide selection of hotels, ranging from budget hostels, to mid range to five star luxury hotels. We are happy to make recommendations to help you select the right type of accommodation for your stay, from a selection of mid range hotels similar to Pisac Inn, or other categories.
Unucha Spa FAQ
Helpful Hints for Unucha Spa
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Helpful Hints for Unucha Spa
Scheduling Spa Services
Please make reservations at Pisac Inn in person, by phone or by email.
- We recommend scheduling spa services in advance to ensure desired times and treatments. We accommodate last minute reservations when possible with a minimum two-hour notice required, and four hours for jacuzzi.
- Reservations for spa services must be guaranteed by payment in full at Pisac Inn at time of making reservation.
- Special requests will be attended with prior arrangements when possible, and may require additional fees.
- Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to allow time for check-in, and to shower before your treatment. Please remember, we open the door ten minutes before each appointment, so if you arrive more than ten-minutes early we will be attending another guest, or preparing for your treatment.
- Late arrivals will result in a shortened spa experience, as your treatment will conclude at the scheduled time to respect following reservations.
Hours
10 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday
Special exceptions are possible with prior arrangement and extra cost
- Unucha Spa does not attend on certain holidays and special Andean celebrations.
- We attend strictly on a reservation basis, and only open when we have a reservation; no one is at Unucha Spa to attend unless an appointment has been made at Pisac Inn.
Cancellations & Changes
There will be a 30% charge for cancellations or changes; no shows 100% charge.
- Please understand that each treatment requires several hours of preparation from collecting the plants, to heating the water, and getting the space ready.
Gratuities
Gratuities are not included in the price of treatments and are gratefully received to acknowledge good service. The typical range is 15-20% of the price of the treatment(s) and may be made in cash at Unucha Spa.
What to bring
All guests will receive a robe, towel, and bath amenities to use during your stay, and a complimentary detox herbal tea.
- Please bring drinking water, bathing suit for herbal bath, sauna and jacuzzi (not required), and something warm to wear for after the treatment. Please do not bring valuables.
Disclaimer
Hot water and sudden temperature changes can be stressful to your body. If you are pregnant or have chronic health problems, please consult your healthcare professional before your visit. The
consumption of alcoholic beverages may impair judgment and/or cause loss of consciousness and is strongly discouraged. Natural herbal water may discolor some jewelry and stain some fabrics. Unucha Spa will not be held responsible for injuries or loss of personal belongings.
How to find Unucha Spa
Unucha Spa is located five minutes from Pisac in the small town of Taray.
- It is a twenty-minute walk from Pisac, a five-minute motor taxi drive, or a three-minute taxi drive.
- Pisac Inn can assist making transportation arrangements; cost not included.
- It is a red door in the rock wall on the main plaza at the motor taxi drop off; there is no sign and no bell.
- The door will be opened ten minutes before your scheduled appointment; Unucha Spa only opens and attends on a reservation basis, which means there is no one available to attend if a reservation has not been made.
What makes Unucha Spa unique?
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What makes Unucha Spa unique?
Here are few things we have thought of to help you better understand our distinct spa concept, and how to be prepared.
Unucha Spa is exclusive
Unucha offers a personalized and intimate space for each reservation. Reservations do not overlap, ensuring that each guest has exclusive use of the space. This affords privacy and security for each treatment offered at Unucha Spa.
We ask that you not bring guests that are not receiving a treatment, and remind you that once your treatment is over, we need to prepare the space for the next reservation, and in this way ensure that each guest receives the same exclusive, private experience./em>
Unucha Spa is natural
Unucha is an outdoor open-air spa, with spectacular views in a natural setting, providing a gentle space that allows one to connect to oneself and to nature. We use organic massage oil, and prepare each treatment with plants locally and sustainably harvested in the moment.
Please note that only the massage room and sauna are fully enclosed; we recommend bringing warm clothes fro after treatments.
Unucha Spa is enchanting
Unucha Spa is small and charming, providing a quality experience. Please understand that our facility can only accommodate a few reservations per day. We highly recommend making a reservation far in advance to assure that you are able to get a reservation. Oftentimes we are fully booked.
Part of the charm of being in a small town in the Andes comes with several factors that may prevent us from being able to take a reservation, and sometimes we may even have to cancel a reservation in the event of loss of electricity, problems with water systems, and any numbers of unforeseen events. We thank you for your understanding. We will always reimburse your money if we are unable to attend a confirmed reservation.