Cultural and Historical Exploration in Cusco with Friends

Whispers of the Past, Tastes of Today

Today was a beautiful blend of ancient history and modern delights here in Cusco. It's funny how easily you can slip between centuries in this city, one moment tracing the footsteps of the Incas, the next indulging in some of the world's finest chocolate. I’m finding that each day here reveals a new layer of Cusco’s captivating charm, and I'm eager to share it all.

Our Sunday started, as many do, with a hearty breakfast. Maximilian and I headed to Rucula Peruvian Restaurant. It was a delightful start to the day. The restaurant was cozy, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, while Maximilian chose something a bit more familiar. It’s always a joy to experience local cuisine, and Rucula certainly set the bar high. I must remember to try their Alpaca anticucho Jennifer Drum recommended! Alexandra, other reviewers have mentioned your excellent service and I am sure we will experience it too!


Experience the authentic flavors of Peru at Rucula Peruvian Restaurant in Cusco – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to explore the archaeological sites just outside Cusco. Our first stop was Tambomachay, also known as the Baths of the Inca. The site is a series of aqueducts, canals, and fountains carved from stone, a testament to the Incas' incredible engineering skills. The precision with which they channeled the water is simply astounding. I could almost hear the whispers of ancient rituals and ceremonies as we wandered through the serene setting. The crisp mountain air and the sound of flowing water created a truly magical atmosphere. It's easy to see why the Incas considered water such a sacred element. I made sure to take plenty of photos, though no image can truly capture the feeling of standing in that ancient place.


Discover Tambomachay, the serene Incan Water Temple near Cusco, where ancient aqueducts meet stunning Andean vistas.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of history.

Next on our itinerary was Puka Pukara, the Red Fortress. In contrast to the soothing waters of Tambomachay, Puka Pukara stands as a stark reminder of the Incas' military prowess. The fortress is strategically located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's easy to imagine soldiers standing guard, protecting Cusco from potential invaders. The stonework here is impressive, though not as refined as in some other Inca sites. The reddish hue of the stones, caused by the iron-rich soil, gives the fortress its distinctive name. As we explored the ruins, I couldn't help but marvel at the Incas' ability to build such formidable structures in such challenging terrain. The wind was strong up there, and I was glad I'd brought a warm scarf. It reminded me a bit of hiking in the Finnish fells back home, though the scenery was, of course, vastly different.


Explore Puka Pukara, an ancient Inca archaeological site near Cusco, rich in history and stunning Andean scenery.

After immersing ourselves in history, it was time for a different kind of cultural experience: chocolate! We made our way to ChocoStore in Cusco's city center. As a Finn living in Germany, I have a soft spot for good chocolate, and I was eager to see what Peru had to offer. The store was a chocolate lover's paradise, filled with all sorts of tempting treats. We sampled a variety of chocolates, from dark and intense to sweet and creamy. I was particularly intrigued by the chocolates made with local ingredients like coca leaves and Andean berries. It's amazing how chocolate can reflect the unique flavors of a region. I ended up buying a few bars to take back home as souvenirs – and maybe a few for myself, too!


Experience the rich taste of Peruvian chocolate at ChocoStore in Cusco, where sweet delights and local traditions meet for an unforgettable treat.

For lunch, we decided to try Mama Seledonia. The reviews I had read were raving about the authentic Peruvian cuisine and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. It certainly lived up to its reputation! The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and Mama Seledonia herself was a gracious hostess. We ordered a few traditional dishes, including trout and philly steaks. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients. It felt like a true taste of Peru, and I savored every bite. I am intrigued to learn more about Seledonia Montalvo, the woman behind this amazing restaurant! I will certainly remember to try the chocolate cakes, cheesecakes and pancakes next time!


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Mama Seledonia, a beloved restaurant in the heart of Cusco's historic district.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Marcelo Batata Restaurante for dinner. I had heard great things about the restaurant's ambiance and rooftop terrace, and I was eager to experience it for myself. The restaurant was indeed lovely, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. We were seated on the rooftop terrace, which offered stunning views of the city. I ordered the alpaca steak, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Maximilian opted for a seafood dish, which he thoroughly enjoyed. The service was attentive and friendly, and the overall experience was simply wonderful. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day in Cusco. I am thinking about participating in a Group Cooking Class at Marcelo Batata!


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Marcelo Batata Restaurante in Cusco – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning a trip to Ollantaytambo and Moray, two more fascinating Inca sites in the Sacred Valley. I'm particularly excited to see the agricultural terraces of Moray, which are said to have been used for experimenting with different crops. And of course, I'm always up for exploring more of Peru's rich history and culture. I will make sure to have my portable phone charger with me this time!

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this amazing city with my friends. Cusco has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you wanting more. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

The Inti Raymi and Cusco festivities 2025 will be announced this March 28th. I will try to attend the ceremony in the Inca temple of Qoricancha. It must be amazing to witness this type of event!

I am also aware that the Cusco Carnival just ended on March 9. I am sad that I missed such a vibrant celebration. Maybe next time I will plan my trip a bit earlier to enjoy the music, dances and water games!

I am looking forward to the next day and everything that it has to offer!