Solo Adventure on the Choquequirao Trek: Unveiling the Secrets of the Incas

Day 6: A Day of Discovery: Unearthing Cusco's Hidden Gems

Exploring Cusco's cultural heart: From Incan relics at Casa Club to sunset views at Puerta Del Sol, plus local flavors and brews.

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Cusco's Embrace: A Day of Unexpected Treasures


The crisp morning air of Cusco greeted me with a promise of adventure, a stark contrast to the familiar, gentle breezes of Silkeborg. I set out with no rigid plan, just a desire to soak in the city's atmosphere, to wander where the cobblestone streets led. Today was about letting Cusco reveal its secrets, and it did not disappoint.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Inka Wasi Restaurant. Fuelled by traditional Peruvian flavours, I felt ready to embrace whatever the day held. The restaurant, located in the heart of Machu Picchu Pueblo, offered not only excellent service but also a taste of local culture. It was a delightful start, setting a positive tone for the adventures ahead.

First on my unstructured itinerary was Casa Club INKAS MC. I must admit, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but the name intrigued me. It turned out to be a fascinating glimpse into Incan history, a place where relics and stories intertwined. As a restorer of antique furniture, I found myself particularly drawn to the craftsmanship of the displays, the way the past was preserved with such care. It reminded me of my workshop back in Silkeborg, surrounded by the scent of wood and the echoes of history. It's a privilege, isn't it, to work with things that outlast us, that carry the weight of generations?

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and artistic expressions at Casa Club INKAS MC, a must-visit attraction in the heart of Cusco, Peru.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and artistic expressions at Casa Club INKAS MC, a must-visit attraction in the heart of Cusco, Peru.
The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in discovering new perspectives.

Next, I ventured towards Puerta Del Sol. The climb was invigorating, the air thinning as I ascended. The views, however, were more than worth the effort. From this vantage point, the landscape unfolded in a breathtaking panorama of mountains and valleys. I could see why the Incas chose this spot; it felt like standing at the edge of the world. The sun beat down, but a cool breeze kept things comfortable. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to reflect on the journey so far and the journey yet to come.

Discover the breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage at Puerta Del Sol, Cusco's iconic observation deck and tourist attraction.
Discover the breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage at Puerta Del Sol, Cusco's iconic observation deck and tourist attraction.

Lunch was at Chicha por Gaston Acurio, a restaurant that came highly recommended. The name Gastón Acurio is synonymous with Peruvian cuisine, and this place lived up to the hype. The focus on local produce and sustainably sourced ingredients was evident in every dish. The flavours were bold, yet refined, a testament to the chef's skill. It was a culinary experience that transcended mere sustenance; it was an immersion into Peruvian culture. I savoured every bite, appreciating the artistry and passion that went into each creation.

Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Chicha por Gaston Acurio, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant setting.
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Chicha por Gaston Acurio, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant setting.

As the day wound down, I found myself at Cholos Brewpub, a local watering hole with a welcoming atmosphere. I'm not usually one for bars, but the lure of local craft beer was too strong to resist. I sampled a few brews, each with its own unique character, and struck up a conversation with a couple of locals. We talked about everything from football to politics, finding common ground despite our different backgrounds. It was a reminder that, no matter where we come from, we're all just people trying to make our way in the world.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Cholos Brewpub, a must-visit bar in the heart of Cusco's historic center.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Cholos Brewpub, a must-visit bar in the heart of Cusco's historic center.

For dinner, I chose Toto's House, a restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine. The ambiance was warm and inviting, the perfect setting for a comforting meal. I opted for a classic dish, savoring the rich flavors and the sense of history that permeated the place. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration, a culinary journey that mirrored the physical one.

Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Toto's House in Aguas Calientes – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Toto's House in Aguas Calientes – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Choquesuysuy and Cerro Choquequirao. I also intend to explore Mercado Central de San Pedro. I'm eager to see what new adventures await, what other hidden gems Cusco has to offer. As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, that remind me why I left the familiar comforts of Silkeborg in the first place. The world is a vast and wondrous place, and I'm eager to see as much of it as I can. Good night from Cusco.

My thoughts drift to Astrid and Lasse back in Denmark. I find myself missing our family dinners, Astrid's insightful conversations, and Lasse's youthful energy. I know they're both doing well, but a part of me wishes they were here to share these experiences with me. Perhaps one day we can return to Peru together, and I can show them all the wonders I've discovered.

The portable solar charger I forgot is starting to feel like a real miss. I need to be more diligent with my packing. And perhaps a lightweight raincoat would be wise, given the unpredictable mountain weather. These are lessons learned, small adjustments to make for the days ahead.

As I prepare for another day of trekking, I am reminded of the importance of embracing the unexpected. Today's journey through Cusco was a testament to the beauty of spontaneity, a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don't plan. With that thought, I close my eyes, ready to dream of ancient ruins and breathtaking vistas. Tomorrow, Choquequirao awaits.
Go to day 5 Whispers of the Inca Trail: A Day Among the Clouds
Go to day 7 Echoes of the Incas: Discovering Choquesuysuy's Secrets
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Solo Adventure on the Choquequirao Trek: Unveiling the Secrets of the Incas

Embark on a solo journey through Peru's Choquequirao Trek, exploring Incan history and breathtaking landscapes in a 14-day adventure.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Andrea Colombo
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Restorer of Antique Furniture
  • Country icon Country: Denmark
  • Age icon Age: 47

Ciao! I'm Andrea Colombo, a restorer of antique furniture with a passion for history, art, and exploring different cultures. Born in Italy and now living in Denmark, I've spent my life surrounded by craftsmanship and stories of the past. Join me as I share my travel experiences, weaving together personal anecdotes, historical facts, and practical tips for those who appreciate immersive and authentic journeys. Together with my family, I seek out unique destinations, connect with local communities, and uncover the hidden gems that make each place special. Benvenuti!

Interests:
  • History
  • Art
  • Architecture
  • Different Cultures
  • Culinary Experiences
More about Andrea Colombo

Find Similar Travel Diaries

Explore locations from this diary

  • Casa Club INKAS MC

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and artistic expressions at Casa Club INKAS MC, a must-visit attraction in the heart of Cusco, Peru.

  • Puerta Del Sol

    Discover the breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage at Puerta Del Sol, Cusco's iconic observation deck and tourist attraction.

  • Inka Wasi Restaurant

    Discover the heart of Peru through authentic flavors at Inka Wasi Restaurant in Aguas Calientes.

  • Chicha por Gaston Acurio

    Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Chicha por Gaston Acurio, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant setting.

  • Toto's House

    Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Toto's House in Aguas Calientes – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

  • Cholos Brewpub

    Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Cholos Brewpub, a must-visit bar in the heart of Cusco's historic center.

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